Collaborative event prepares students for professional job opportunities

The Ross L. Handy Campus Center was buzzing with energy on Oct. 29 as nearly 50 Citrus College students received individualized coaching and resources to help them prepare for employment interviews.

Hosted by the Career/Transfer Center, in partnership with EOPS/CARE and CalWORKs and student life and leadership development, this first-ever Job Prep Pop-Up event featured different stations offering unique services to participating students.

Mock interviews, makeup and hairstyle tips courtesy of the Cosmetology Club, LinkedIn headshot photos captured by a photography student and resume reviews were among the many activities provided. In addition, a career closet supplied by Working Wardrobes, an Orange County nonprofit organization focused on career development, allowed students to pick out and take home professional attire.

Students also received raffle tickets at each station, giving them the chance to win gift cards to local retail stores. Each gift card was donated by the Citrus College Foundation and various college members.

"I am incredibly proud of the many individuals who conceptualized, planned and hosted this brilliant event," said the college's superintendent/president. "The success of the Job Prep Pop-Up is an affirmation of the college's commitment to helping students accomplish their academic and professional goals."

Ross Dress for Less, the discount department store, has already agreed to donate $300 toward the next Job Prep Pop-Up opportunity in spring 2020.

a career advisor reviews an interview preparation worksheet with a student during the job prep pop-up

Counselor Natalie Desimone offers a student tips on how to navigate tough interviews.

This article originally appeared in the December 2019 edition of the Citrus View.