University Careers Fair goes international

26-July-2002

Two University of Wollongong students have been selected to showcase the success of the inaugural Illawarra Graduate Careers Fair at the International Convention of the Golden Key Society.

Golden Key members are within the top 15 per cent of their degree program. The society aims to foster greater links between the University of Wollongong, its students, local business and wider community.

Maree Costello and Nicole Graham will attend the 25th Anniversary Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, from 8-11 August.

The initiative and determination of students of the Golden Key Society at the University in organising an event for the benefit of all UOW students has been recognised by the Golden Key headquarters. They have been selected as one of 30 chapters world wide to present the Careers Fair at the Convention "CAFÉ Exhibition."

The Careers Fair held in May was organised by the UOW Golden Key Society to allow local employers an opportunity to meet potential future employees currently studying at the University. The potential for such a "link" between the University and local business community was confirmed with 29 businesses participating in the Careers Fair.

The Convention presentation involves preparing a step-by-step implementation guide outlining the various stages of planning, promoting and hosting a Careers Fair. This information will be made available on the international website to be used as an example and precedent for other universities wishing to pursue a similar initiative.

The University was previously host to very successful Careers Fairs for students -- but these have targeted the corporations based in Sydney.

"We wanted to present an opportunity for local firms to meet local students and highlight the career opportunities that exist in the region," according to Golden Key Chapter President Maree Costello.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gerard Sutton, said he hoped that the Careers Fair continued to grow and become an annual event at the University.

The students leave for America on August 2.

Media please note: For further information contact Maree Costello on either Monday morning (29 July) or Wednesday afternoon (31 July) on 0403 485 784.