Students from Chestnut Hill College gathered information about internships, jobs and careers at the Career Carnival sponsored by the Career Development Department in early March.

Various tables were set up around Fitzsimmons Hall that focused on different aspects of the process such as how to dress, samples of resumes, interviewing techniques and how to use social media. The carnival was part of a week of activities called “March Madness” (not to be confused with the basketball tournament) intended to get students to focus on the career process.

“Each year we like to market our services in an appealing way. With the Easter break coming in April this year and last, we decided to capitalize on the March Madness theme,” says Nancy Dachille, director of career development.

“We have our work study students develop and present a theme at each table. This gives them the experience of designing an idea and carrying it out. Some of the tables this year focused on the do’s and don’ts of social media, interview tips, resume samples, assessing yourself, professional headshots and what you can do with your major,” she says.

Other events held that week were a LinkedIn workshop, interview prep and tips, an alumni meet and greet for students to make connections and learn about what works and doesn’t work in the working world, and an internship information session.

Dachille hopes the students become more comfortable with all aspects of the career and internship processes and become professional in their career development. Nancy also stresses that students learn to use social media to their advantage while being cautious about their online presence.

“I think the main aspect of social media they should utilize is establishing and learning how to use LinkedIn. It is a massive networking venue which is invaluable for their job search. As far as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, they should make all their accounts private. Try to use these media to showcase your talents, skills and experience,” she adds.

— Ryan Morton