On Feb. 21, ETSU’s Career Placement and Internship Services and the Office of Multicultural affairs co-sponsored the annual Multicultural Career Fair.
This event, which was held in the Culp Center ballroom, featured more than 30 employers from Illinois, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia. Each company set up an exhibit and provided information and other giveaways for interested students.
“Most students go to school to get a job,” said Chetwyn Pete, a student worker for the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “When you bring in multiple corporations and multiple businesses, it’s a great opportunity for students.”
Many would agree that career fairs are a good way for students to gather important information and begin networking before entering the work force.
“It’s definitely important for students to come to career fairs to get an idea of what’s available to them,” said David Hall, a partner with New York Life. “They can see what the market is like and get a realistic view of what’s ahead after they graduate.”
Students who attended the Multicultural Career Fair had the opportunity to talk to company representatives to find out what employers were looking for in their potential employees.
Hall, a seven-year employee at New York Life, said he attends career fairs on behalf of his company whenever possible. “We’re looking for people with drive and determination,” Hall said.
Although most students attended the Multicultural Career Fair to gather information only, others brought rsums in hopes of impressing the potential employers.
“Some people came in with suits and ties, trying to get a job,” said Pete, freshman marketing major. “Some students are about to get their degree, and they can use these connections. Right out of school, they’ll hopefully be able to get a job.”
Calvin Purvis, assistant director of Career Placement and Internship Services, said that approximately 100 students attended this year’s Multicultural Career Fair.
In addition to the Multicultural Career Fair, the Office of Multicultural Affairs also hosts other events throughout the year to promote cultural diversity on campus.

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