Students looking for summer work or long-term careers may find what they need at Glendale College’s second annual job fair, which will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, in San Rafael Plaza.

Kathy Kostjal came to the Glendale College Job Placement Center four years ago eager to re-create the job fairs she’d seen elsewhere. She understood the value of students practicing networking skills in a comfortable environment. Finally, last year she saw her vision come to fruition with more than 300 students in attendance.

Kostjal and her Job Center colleagues Nane Kakosian and Mirta Lorenzo hope to have an even more successful event this year.

In 2000, 55 companies participated, while this year’s event is gearing up for more than 60 employers.

Returning in April will be such diverse organizations as the FBI, Disneyland Resort, and Easter Seals. “We try to get a nice mix so there’s something for everyone,” Kostjal said.

Through the aid of the Job Track computer program in the Job Center, the job fair team has searched an extensive database, selecting local companies that match with the college’s course offerings. For example, students of administration of justice can meet with the LAPD and the California Department of Justice, and those studying health and medicine with Glendale Adventist Medical Center. Students have also suggested businesses they would like to see represented.

The student contribution goes even farther this year. Students will staff the event, and ASGCC will contribute money toward advertising, paper supplies, food for the representatives, and decorations.

Kostjal suggests that students come to the fair in business attire and be well-supplied with resumÇs to give to prospective employers. Leslie Gregory at the Career Center has set aside extra time for resumÇ workshops in advance of the fair, and career counselors will teach students such skills as writing cover letters and resumÇ preparation.

“A lot of students don’t know what they could put on a resumÇ,” said Gregory. Samples and instructional videos will be provided, and students are encouraged to bring resumes to the center for updating and revision.

All students are encouraged to visit the Career and Job Placement centers on the second floor of the San Rafael building.