by Elizabeth Rodarte
Staff Writer
In efforts to meet the needs of graduating students at the University of La Verne, the Career Development Center (CDC) has developed a one-day seminar that offers workshops on a variety of topics.
Laura Venturini, assistant director of career development and placement, said, “It is a chance for every senior who is graduating to learn about the job search process.”
Venturini said every year the CDC tries to get more influential employers to come out. This year they are especially focusing on majors in the areas of business, science, computer and liberal arts.
The day starts with registration at the CDC, a welcome and a continental breakfast.
Topics covered at the workshop this year will be résumé writing and interviewing skills, graduate school, student loans and the world of working.
A representative from Ingram Micro Systems will give tips on what employers look for in a resume as well as interviews.
“It will help seniors get a chance to actually write out their resume and go through the interviewing process,” Venturini said.
She also encourages students to bring their resume if they already have one.
Kaplin who produces many graduate school examination preparation booklets and Graduate Record Exam (GRE) test preparation materials will lead the session on how to apply and prepare for graduate school.
A Sallie Mae representative will discuss paying back loans, how to apply for deferment and loan consolidation.
Venturini said, “This is the most important session. Students who have college loans at ULV will be able to do their exit interview which is required by the federal government.”
Five alumni of ULV will share their experiences after graduation.
Resident coordinator for housing and residential life at ULV and alumna Kenia Magallanes said, “I would like for the students to begin thinking of what they are going to do after graduation. Whether it’s the GRE test or finding the perfect job.”
Magallanes said she hopes students will learn from the positive things the panel has done after graduation as well as from their mistakes.
The day will be brought to its grand finale at lunch by keynote speaker, Greta Sonnier, who owns a law firm and is a ULV alumna, in Miller Lounge.
During lunch students will have the opportunity to network with employers.
Career Assistant Coordinator Carolina Franco, a junior, said, “There is a lot of opportunities offered to the students so I just wish for them to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Franco along with Venturini have worked hard to make the seminar a successful day.
“I want the event to be very successful. We are expecting 40-60 people to show up and hopefully they will get something out of it,” Franco said.
According to Venturini in the past the seminar turnout has been excellent and she hopes the same for this year.
The attire for the day will be professional.
Venturini said, “I would be more than happy to sit down with them [student] for 10 minutes and let them know what Business attire is.”
“This is the perfect beginning for seniors as they progress through their last year and as they move into the career world,” Venturini said.
The seventh annual Senior Survival Seminar takes place Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The cost is $5 which includes seminar materials. The registration deadline is today. For further information contact Venturini at ext. 4449.
