Story by Pete Camarillo
Students packed the Northridge Center searching for jobs and internships in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) industry at the Career Center’s bi-annual Tech Fest.
Students and alumni had a chance to make first impressions with recruiters from companies including Amgen, South Coast Engineering Group, Deluxe Media, Webcor Builders, Woodward, and nearly 40 other employers.
Tech Fest was an opportunity for students to gather info about various companies that hire individuals within their major, as well as network for future references.
Recruiters asked potential hires questions, collected resumés and provided information about their companies.
Jamell Jordan, junior electrical engineering major, said he attended the event in hopes of finding an internship.
“I need an internship to get my foot inside the door, and get the ball rolling on my career before I finish my degree,” Jordan said.
He said it is important for CSUN to host Tech Fest.
“Other schools are probably doing it. We don’t want to be the one not doing it,” he said.
Jordan said students should come because the event is, “In your face, and there is no excuse not to come.”
He said it was nerve wracking to see other potential candidates in a better position for an internship. Jordan said it was exciting to see “A lot of heavy-duty employers.”
Jordan is hopeful he will get a shot at an internship, but Tech Fest inspired him to put himself in a better position for an internship going forward.
Although Tech Fest is geared toward students in the college of engineering and computer science, the event is open to all students.
Sarah Le Long, employment service and event coordinator for the Career Center, said Tech Fest brings employers to the students, and helps employers find a variety of students.
“A lot of people look great on resume, but you learn more about a person one on one,” Le Long said.
Le Long said Tech Fest is an opportunity for students to look for work, internships, and network. She said it helps prepare students for the interview process.
“There is less anxiety when you go to see all the employers at once,” Le Long said.
Rashad Zaghloul, grad student majoring in structural engineering, said he came out to, “Look for new opportunities and get experience answering questions from employers.”
Zaghloul praised the events organization, and said he was glad to not waste time searching for employers in the crowded Northridge Center.
He said it was important for CSUN to organize an event to bring students and employers together.
“Who is going to support you, if your school can not?” Zaghloul said.
This was the 15th Tech Fest, according to Le Long. The Career Center hosts the event every semester.
