Newsfeed
Printer-Friendly ModeWeb site gives resources to job seekers
September 28, 2009 —
Cardinals can more easily start gaining experience, even before they leave the nest.
This fall, SVSU began to offer the Cardinal Career Network, a new university- wide application process. Now, students can apply for co-ops, internships or part- or full-time jobs, starting from the comfort of their own computer chair.
“SVSU has gone online to provide the best services possible and to make it fairer for all students,” said Megan Biskup, assistant director of Career Planning and Placement.
The department’s database, open 24/7, keeps students and alumni updated on job openings both on campus and in the area.
The site incorporates NACElink, a job posting and recruiting system through the National Association of Colleges and Employers. On NACElink, users choose a city and the service lists jobs available in the area.
The system’s simplicity doesn’t guarantee a job on campus though, said Michael Major, interim director of Career Planning and Placement.
“It’s a very competitive process,” Major said. SVSU offers about 600 positions, and each listing averages about 40 applicants.
“The key to getting a job on campus is to have a well-prepared résumé,” he said.
To help, the Career Planning and Placement’s Web site offers a series of tutorials on how to prepare documents needed to apply for a job.
Maeleeya Owens, a social work senior who works at the Ryder Center’s front desk, said she benefited from the site.
“The résumés online help to show your skills and get ready for the real world,” she said.
SVSU’s online support system is gaining notice on other campuses. The National Association of Colleges and Employers asked Major to present SVSU’s system for other universities in a streaming Web conference slated for Dec. 10.
Some SVSU students were pleased with the new network.
“Applying online was simple,” said Alyssa Kent, a history freshman who works at the C-Store.
Assistant Director Biskup said that students can also look to co-ops and internships to gain experience. These positions typically offer better pay, receive fewer applicants and afford a closer fit to a student’s field of study.
Career Planning and Placement holds workshops and mock interviews throughout the year to help prepare students for the business environment.
Anyone interested can also attend a university-wide employment and networking fair in the Curtiss Hall banquet rooms Friday, Oct. 30, 2009.
For more information, visit the Career Planning and Placement site at svsu.edu/careers.html.