I would like to respond to Jennifer Elshoff’s Sept. 29th column, “Career fair was waste of time for some students.”

First, she noted disappointment in the lack of advertisement prior to the event. Regular advertising began in the Iowa State Daily two weeks prior to Career Day. These ads were large and in color. Advertisement began early because we recognize that students need time to prepare for such events. The Daily’s careers insert, which came out Sept. 22, offered a variety of articles about preparing for the events, resume writing and interviewing. In addition to our advertising in the Daily, every junior and senior in the colleges of Business and Liberal Arts and Sciences were sent a minimum of two e-mails in the weeks prior to the event.

Also, in an effort to prepare for the job search, we held a Mock Interview Day where students could practice their interviewing skills with actual employers. This was also advertised in the Daily and occurred Sept. 18.

Business/LAS Career Day and the Engineering Career Fair have always occurred back-to-back. This is not for the convenience of staff, but for the convenience of employers. Many employers recruit students from majors in the College of Engineering as well as the Colleges of Business and Liberal Arts and Sciences. By working together to hold the events the same week, we hope to get as many employers on campus as possible.

Invitations to our career fairs go out to thousands of employers. I would love for students in every major to feel as though they were adequately represented at these events, but it is not always possible. Fall Career Day is just one opportunity for students to gain information about internships and permanent positions.

Heather Johnson Huntley

Career Development Coordinator

Business/LAS Career Services