The senior struggle: The Career Fair lacked the hope we need

As graduation approaches, I'm feeling more pressure to find a job. I'm sure every senior is feeling this type of pressure as the last three months of their college careers approach.

When I decided to major in journalism, I knew the industry was competitive and there were few jobs open. However, I like a challenge and am confident I will do well as a journalist. At least I was sure of myself, until I met my match at the Career Fair last Thursday.

When I walked inside, the number of employers there was overwhelming. The feeling quickly diminished when I saw the list of employers that were related to my major.

The jobs available for communication majors were lacking. The only options open were radio stations, TV stations and public relation firms. There were no print publications in attendance.

With few options available to a journalism major with no broadcasting experience, I did not have many options to choose from.

I was hoping by going to the Career Fair, I would be able to meet future employers and possibly land a job for after graduation. Instead, I settled. I talked to several communication-related companies that I had no interest in and who had no interest in my major.

Almost every company I talked to was not interested in hiring me or anyone for that matter. When I asked what positions they had open, they gave me a few responses: 1. We don't have any right now, but check out the website for updates. If any positions open up, we'll post them there. 2. We're looking for interns. 3. We'll take your resume and if anything comes up I'll let you know.

The Career Fair was nothing like I thought it would be. If anything, it was disappointing.

Overall, it should have had more companies for journalism or communication majors in general. Although the picks of some companies like Coyne Public Relations and CBS were impressive, it was simply not enough.

At least this experience taught me to either go to the Career Center to do a job search or look outside the school for companies that I'm interested in.

Patrice Kubik is a senior journalism major from Sterling, N.J. She can be reached at patrice.kubik@student.shu.edu.