With stacks of applications and business cards to hand out and smiles at the ready, employers greeted job-hunting students and community members at the UOG Career Development Office’s annual Job Fair at the Calvo Field House on April 26, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Representatives from various companies and institutions such as Aflac, the National Guard, and Guam Homeland Security set up booths to discuss job offers, work environment, and training.

“Spring’s the best time to have a job fair because it helps students find [work] in the summertime,” said Sallie McDonald, the fair’s program coordinator and Career Development office career coach.

McDonald said she was pleased with the event’s turnout, and the institutions that participated were a “good mix” this year.

“I like it,” said Bernadette Cristobal, a psychology major at UOG. “I think it’s really cool how UOG holds this stuff annual and we get opportunities like this. It’s so conveniently placed and everything. It’s not every day that you get to go to a job fair.”

Prior to the event, people were encouraged to bring a cover letter, resume, and to be dressed for success.

In order to bolster the attendants’ confidence, workshops that involved mock job interviews were held the week before the event.

Since the employers were in the vicinity, participants had the opportunity to be interviewed on site.

“The first impression is always a lasting one,” McDonald said.

According to McDonald, the job fair is just one of many opportunities for students to get their feet wet in the job market.

During the fall semester, the Career Development Office organizes workshops concerning how to write a resume, fill out applications, and how to dress appropriately are offered.

Employer recruitment events are also held, offering students a more personal one-to-one approach with prospective employers.

In regards to students who missed the fair, McDonald encourages them to make an appointment to visit her at her office.

“I work with students very well with getting them prepared for the world of work,” she said.

“I’d like to invite all students to make the effort to be at this kind of event. It is for their benefit and so we hope that they take the time out to [attend.]”