Making an Impact with Career Conversations

Spring Career Connect events support resume writing and interview skills for students

By Alex Kison

Vendor speaking with a studentWhat are the important questions to ask when exploring career opportunities? That’s what many students hope to discover when attending a Clark College Career Connect event. 

Students, community members, employers, local industry professionals, staff, and faculty gathered in the Cannell Library on May 7 and May 14 to have career conversations, form new connections, and learn about the diverse range of opportunities available in the Vancouver/Portland area. 

The focus of the May 7 event was business and entrepreneurship. Local employers and industry professionals participated to share their career insights with students and recruit potential future employees.  

When surveyed about their event experience, one of the employers had this valuable advice for students: “Resume writing is an incredibly hard thing to do as it’s an impersonal introduction to the employer in hopes of getting noticed enough for an interview. My industry might not have been on the radar for some of these students, but they were courageous enough to ask the question, ‘Can you take a look at my resume and tell me if this would get me an interview?’ Resume writing may seem small, but it really is the door for opportunity. Of the students who asked us for constructive criticism, being curious and receptive will get you far in this world.”  

Another employer shared that they look for three ‘untrainable’ qualities in potential employees: timeliness, attitude, and work ethic. Several students made a very positive impression on another local employer who believed they would be a great fit for their internship program. The employer was impressed with the students who were engaging, curious, asked intentional questions, and thought to connect with both their verbal and nonverbal communication. This same employer shared that there was one student who didn’t have their resume on them, but they were so interested in the internship opportunity that they left the event to go home and get their resume to bring back for the employer. This demonstrated initiative and being a self-starter in the business industry.  

The following week’s event focused on the Creative and Communication Arts, aligning with the Creative Writing Festival that was taking place on campus throughout that week. Vendors from a variety of industries were present to speak with students about creative career options.  

Gabi, a new student planning to pursue an associate in arts degree in music theory, took the time to visit every booth at the event, asking questions that helped her understand the business side of creative industries. Even vendors that didn’t necessarily relate to Gabi’s chosen path inspired thoughtful conversations. “I was impressed with Front Porch Books and the passion they have for the community,” she said. 

Students can receive resume reviews, as well as general employment support and career advising by meeting with Clark College Career Services, which hosts the Career Connect events. 

Stephanie Leeper speaking with a student

Employers Representing Business & Entrepreneurship

Employers Representing Creative & Communication Arts

Learn More About Career Services

Career Services provides resources and strategies to support students in their career and employment goals, including career plans and choosing a major, resume and cover letter writing, and finding internship opportunities. Career Services also provides resources to support faculty members’ work with students. Learn more about Career Services. 

Photos: Clark College/Malena Goerl

Story by Alex Kison, Workforce & Student Engagement Navigator, Career Services; and Malena Goerl, Staff Writer, Communications and Marketing