The Career Services Centre of Ashesi University organized its second annual Career Fair on Saturday 22nd September 2007. The fair brought together 18 companies from 12 industries, a 67% increase over last year’s. The high patronage from these companies is an indication of the recognition Ashesi students’ have gained for their top-notch performance in the corporate world.
To Career Services, the fair is one of several programmes designed to prepare students for their professional life and help them learn to market their skills and accomplishments. To ensure the event was a success, the career centre organized CV clinics and information sessions on interviewing prior to the fair. Some students participated in mock interviews as well.
This year’s fair saw many new companies participate such as United Bank for Africa (UBA), Tigo, Metropolitan Insurance Company, MTN, Explainer DC, Softribe, Multi Media Consult (operators of Joy and Adom FM), IRS, IKANDO, Habitat for Humanity, General Law Consult, Coca Cola, Maersk Line, MediaBloc and Land Tours & Avis aptly accompanied by their Marketing Manager and Alumni of Ashesi—Ms. Ada N. Ojukwu.
Also several of Ashesi’s home-grown entrepreneurs were on hand to share their achievements and challenges with students. Alumni founded businesses included Dream Oval, an I.T. company, M.I.G. a clothing and technology firm and I-Wallet—also an IT firm.
“I was most impressed by the fact that I talked to people who actually function in their company and were open to share their knowledge with me”—recounted a freshman.
Nine companies made brief presentations highlighting qualities and skills employers look for in new hires and how our students can start a career with them. Students were enthused with most presentations and asked thought-provoking questions. Commenting on his interaction with students Mr. Thomas Hess—CEO of Explainner DC unmistakably said “your students are bright!”
The career fair was a good experience for both students and companies. Some students landed on-the-spot interviews while others were invited for future offers. Most companies expressed their willingness to return for another event. Everyone left satisfied and appreciative. For the Recruitment Manager of TIGO the event was “educative and an eye opener. The students are … intelligent thus trainable”.