SAVE THE DATE
Virginia Public Health Association Career and Internship Fair
December 4th, 2009 - Noon to 4:00 PM
VCU Student Commons, Monroe Park Campus, Richmond Salons I and II

The Virginia Commonwealth University Public Health Program is proud to host the First Annual Virginia Public Health Association Statewide Career and Internship Fair.  The event brings together a range of public health organizations and agencies to provide an opportunity for networking.

It is never too early to begin thinking about your career! We strongly encourage all current students to attend.  By interacting directly with the organizations and agencies who will be hiring students, you can learn of opportunities, hiring practices, required skill sets, and internships and fellowships.

BUSINESS ATTIRE REQUIRED!
Attendance is free for all students, alumni, staff, faculty and friends of the MPH programs in the state, as well as Virginia Public Health Association members.  As space is limited, please register early.  Preference given to current students! Registration is required and can be done online at: http://www.epidmiology.vcu.edu/Careers/registrationForm.html.

Preparing for the Fair
To make the most of the fair, keep these ideas in mind:

1. Research attending organizations before arriving.  All opportunities may be found by searching organizational websites. You should arrive with the express intent and interest in speaking about specific positions you have already researched or discussing specific projects and endeavors.
2. The Fair is not only about finding jobs.  It is also designed to put you face-to-face with representatives from agencies in which you may have an interest.
3. All organizations search for skill sets. It should be your mission to clarify what skills they desire in candidates. To learn more, ask the representative what kind of employee the organization is seeking.
4. Do not seek out only those agencies who you think will hire students from your department. Be encouraged to offer your qualifying skills to other agencies. Many students are surprised to learn the universal applicability of an MPH to the field of public health.
5. Remember, you may be meeting your future employer(s) or someone who can connect you with a future employer, so dress, act, and prepare yourself in a professional manner.

For more ideas on preparation, view the VCU Career Center web page and look for the heading, “Resources” to access information on:

• Developing resumes/CVs
• Interviewing
• Job search correspondence
• Professional portfolios
• Job offer evaluation and negotiation

Also check out Interview Stream, a web-based interview practice tool, on the same page.

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