Malaspina co-hosts Career Fair and Open House in Parksville Feb. 13

Are you thinking about a career change? Or how about starting a new one?

Oceanside residents won’t want to miss the second annual Career Fair and Open House co-hosted by Malaspina University-College and The Career Centre in Parksville on Feb. 13.

“It’s a perfect opportunity for residents – especially high school students – to access timely information about jobs, careers and educational opportunities available right in their home community,” said Rod MacDonald, educational counselor at Malaspina’s Parksville-Qualicum Centre.

“Given the economic conditions in School District # 69 (SD #69) we think a Career Fair and Open House is a worthwhile activity to offer Oceanside residents,” he added. “We’re seeing tremendous growth in the fields of health, hospitality, and trades, and so these are the key areas we’ll focus on during this year’s free Career Fair and Open House."

Labour market experts from The Career Centre, as well as industry representatives, will be on hand to discuss career opportunities in these specific industries, added Cyndy Ireland Bresden, executive director of the The Career Centre. “We’re excited to bring all the experts together in one place to share their knowledge.”

Malaspina staff will also be available to talk about post-secondary programs offered at the Parksville-Qualicum Centre, including Adult Basic Education courses that help students transition to university programs, especially students who have been away from the classroom for a long time.

“We’re also extending a special invitation to high school students,” said MacDonald. “We hope grade 12 students in particular will come out and see what’s available to them.”

MacDonald said Malaspina and The Career Centre have enjoyed a healthy partnership for many years. “We feel quite privileged to once again work with The Career Center in Parksville in planning this unique community event," he said.

During the Career Fair and Open House, structured panel discussions on the three key industries will run from 10 – 11:15 am for hospitality (room 262), trades from 11:30 to 12:45 pm (main floor forum) and health from 1:30 -3:30 pm (room 262).  A light lunch will be served between 12:45 and 1:30 pm in room 262.

The day wraps up with an Open House Tea from 7 to 8:15 pm for parents and high school students thinking about attending Malaspina in the fall. One evening session will focus on Malaspina programs, student services, financial aid, scholarships and transitioning to university. The other session will offer a hands-on demonstration of how to navigate through Malaspina’s on-line registration process.

All Career Fair and Open House activities take place at Malaspina's Parksville-Qualicum Centre, located on the second floor of the Parksville Civic and Technology Centre, 100 Jensen Ave. East, Parksville.

For more information, call (250) 248-2096 or visit www.viu.ca/parksville orwww.careercentre.org.