The International Honor Society in Psychology (PSI CHI) Club at Sacramento State held their second psychology career fair on Tuesday, October 13 in the University Union, Redwood Room.

Isabella Serrato, PSI CHI president, said that this event is one where students of all majors can make great connections. Serrato said that they are hoping for bigger turnouts each time and determining whether to hold it in Spring or Fall so that they can reach a bigger number of students.

Though the event was tailored to psychology majors, Michael Row, a junior psychology major at Sac State said that this is a beneficial event for everyone.

“They’ve got a wide variety of things. They’ve got women’s issues, educational issues. Even if they’re not looking for something for themselves, for an internship or for a job, there are other connections in the job market. Some of these services they might need, or their family might need,” Row said.

One of the companies present was Wellspace Health, which has departments in medical, dental, mental and women’s health. Khazei Bauer, the Outreach Coordinator at Wellspace, was there to represent the 24 hour hotline service.

“Since we deal with people in crisis every day, the most rewarding thing is when you realize you made an impact on somebody’s life,” Bauer said.

Among the companies that had tables in the fair, many of them said that they don’t require their employees to be a psychology major but look for someone with a passion to help others.

Erienne Ramos, Community Educator at Weave Inc., said that they look for “folks who are passionate about social justice, who have strong boundaries but are also very caring, empathetic, we look for folks who are very organized and you also have to practice a lot of self-care.”

Some of the programs also said that you don’t need any experience prior to applying, because they train you in the company.

Peter Carter, Supported Living Services Program Director at Choice, said that they reach out to the greater Sacramento region. Carter said that they are only offering paid positions right now.

“We’ll take anyone who’s bright with enthusiasm. We will give you all the training that you need, the certifications and experience will make you stand out but it’s not required,” Carter said.

Company representatives offered advice to graduating students who may be looking to get their foot in the door in this line of work. Many of the representatives had something similar to say.

Ramos said, “Go to where your heart is passionate; that usually works out the best.”

Along with being passionate, the representatives agreed that the more hands on experience an individual has, the more likely they are to be hired.

“Volunteering is a great place to start,” Bauer said.

PSI CHI is always looking for more members to join. There are requirements and an application involved in applying to be a member, but anyone is able to attend the meetings and career fairs.

“Getting involved on campus and networking makes it easier to branch out and get those internships and jobs,” Serrato said.

PSI CHI is working to make this psychology career fair a traditional and annual event.