At a school known for its advances in science and technology, students who aspire to be psychologists or social workers sometimes have to work extra hard to find jobs.

But this year, they will have a little more help.

Iowa State’s first Social Sciences Career Fair will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. today in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union.

Nearly 35 companies or organizations, ranging from the Peace Corps and Woodward Academy to the Ames and Des Moines police departments, will be in attendance, said Kathy Wieland, program coordinator for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

“This is a great way for students to get information on full-time, part-time, internships and volunteer opportunities,” Wieland said. “We felt this is a niche area of employment and is underdeveloped here at Iowa State.”

Coordinators are expecting about 900 students to attend the fair.

The fair was developed by the Psychology Club as a way for social science students to interact with companies and non-profit organizations, said Katie Elbert, coordinator of the event.

“The fair gives students who are in social services an opportunity for employment or volunteering,” said Elbert, senior in psychology.

Although the fair is aimed at social science students, anyone can take advantage of the gathering of employers.

“The fair will be open to all backgrounds of people and is open to everyone, regardless of major,” Elbert said.

“There are many volunteer opportunities which will be showcased there.”

Steven Kravinsky, director of career placement for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said the new fair will have a different atmosphere than past fairs.

“This is our first attempt to isolate companies and give them opportunities in a less-pressured environment,” he said.

Although it is the first time Iowa State has hosted this type of event, Kravinsky said it will be repeated if students take advantage of it.

“If the fair is a success and students come out in large numbers, then we will continue to have it,” he said, “It will be proof of an interest in social sciences in the Iowa State community.”