News release - Record numbers at Solent job fair
March 19 2009
More than 700 students and graduates passed through the doors of Southampton Solent University's annual job and placement fair during the first hour of opening.
Students - aware of the increased competition for graduate opportunities as a result of the global economic downturn – jumped at the chance to improve their prospects of riding the recession and kick starting their careers.
Hayley Clarke, BA (Hons) Journalism graduate, said:
"I found it really useful to speak to employers and I have been given some very helpful advice. I feel more confident about the future and will definitely be sending my CV to some of the contacts I made."
Throughout the day students and graduates were encouraged to be proactive, positive and flexible during a series of talks, workshops and CV clinics.
A staggering 1,163 students and graduates – almost three times more than last year - attended the fair. They relished the opportunity to introduce themselves to more than 35 national and local employers and put themselves forward for work experience and placements.
Remy Foucher, Recruitment Officer from Matchtech said:
"The candidates we have met today have been excellent and much better prepared than in previous years. I think that, probably due to the current climate, they have been more proactive in approaching a company like Matchtech to help them find a position"
Liz George, Southampton Solent University's Careers &Jobshop Manager said:
"Last year 400 students attended the jobs fair; this year has seen that figure almost treble. Our students realise they need to act now and apply early to be one step ahead of the competition.
"Students were signing up with employers and enthusiastically listening to careers and CV advice. Meanwhile, employers were thrilled to be having useful conversations with potential employees"
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