Those looking for a job related to the child development major will have access to many companies in this field at the upcoming Career Fair.

Many of these employers are looking for students who have developed strong communication skills, motivation, perhaps some computer skills, and flexibility, especially in the child development major.

“Some employers are looking for students who have early childhood education (ECE) units. Almost every employer will want an employee who has great communication skills to help in working with the children and the ability to speak well with other teachers and parents. They will also look for someone who can plan enrichment activities for children,” said Martha Schuster, career counselor at the Career Center in Lassen Hall.

One of the many employers who will be represented at the Career Fair is the Sacramento Children?s Home.

“We are looking for someone who wants to work with kids ranging 6 to 18 years old and is very patient. A student who studied the social work field, such as psychology, child development, sociology, or school counseling. Most importantly, we are looking for students who want to make a difference in a child?s life and in the community,” said Michael Mikalonis, human resources generalist for the Sacramento Children?s Home.

“We have been around for 133 years, and we plan on being around for a hundred more. We are ultimately looking for someone who cares.”

Students who are entering this field should be well prepared to handle children of all ages, children who may be troubled, sick or have had harsh pasts may also be encountered. Coordinators involved in the Career Center highly recommend child development graduates get involved with temporary or seasonal jobs relating to children. Graduates should be prepared with resumes and to ask any questions relating to the employers.

Many of the employers in this field are looking for teacher?s assistants, full time early childhood education teachers, and social workers to name a few.

“The Job Fair a few months ago presented many temporary and seasonal jobs for CSUS students, however, students in the child development field should not overlook the seasonal jobs, like camp counselor, because those can lead up to something more in the future. This Career Fair, however, will provide more long-term careers for seniors,” said Carol Leigh Billing, career events specialist.

The Career Center recommends that all students earning teacher?s credentials should also attend Education Recruiter Day on April 9, in which 93 school districts will be present to interview and answer questions.