College of the Desert Hosts Job Fair for Students and Community

It was a sign of the times these days as hundreds of job seekers were out on the College of the Desert Palm Desert campus on Wednesday for the 6th annual Career and Job Fair.

With resumes in hand, many job seekers filled out applications with hopes they might land a gig with one of the 30 employers that participated in the job fair. That’s compared to the 22 employers last year.

“This is a good opportunity for them to get summer or seasonal work,” said Eve-Marie Andrews, the COD career center coordinator.

COD student, Eli Rge, was one of them who said in the competitive search for work, finding a job to fit around her class schedule has been a challenge.

“I’m looking for a job and to get more information. What does the employer want and what am I looking for?” said Rge, of Indio.

Companies like Wells Fargo, U.S. Airforce, and Mary Kay Cosmetics had booths set up. Also, valley employers included everyone from Good Will, Family YMCA, Rancho Las Palmas Resort, Hyatt Grand Champions, to Cal Fire.

“We’re looking for young, motivated people, who want to come work and experience what we have to offer,” said Mike Smith, of Cal Fire.

Fantasy Springs Casino also hoped to find the right candidates to fill 40 openings they have at this time.

According to the casino’s recruiter, available jobs range from food and beverage, cook positions and cashiers, all of the way up to management.

The job fair is only held once a year so the college career center had its work cut out for it as it prepared students with tips to have a successful interview and make a positive first impression.

As for the full time student, she’s optimistic.

“I want to wake up in the morning and be like I’m going to work!” said Rge.