Community colleges a valuable resource in current economy
The old axiom that community colleges enroll more students in an economic downturn is certainly the case at Waubonsee Community College. The college has seen dramatic enrollment increases in recent semesters. Our students are here to improve their lives through education. You may not be aware that Waubonsee and other community colleges also serve their communities in ways that stretch far beyond the classroom. Waubonsee provides many resources for job seekers, businesses and those looking to enhance their current career.
Many workers throughout the Fox Valley have found themselves forced into an already competitive job market. Standing out from the crowd is more important than ever for these job applicants. Responding to this growing need, Waubonsee's Career Services Department is helping an increasing number of individuals in their job searches. No matter if you are a student at the college, an alumnus or a local resident, our Career Services department can help you with access to job boards, résumé and cover letter critiques, career exploration and other services vital to finding a new job. All of this help is offered free of charge.
Waubonsee's Career Services department is hosting its Annual Spring Job Fair from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, in the Academic and Professional Center on the college's Sugar Grove Campus. Making the most of a job fair takes planning and preparation. If you come to the job fair, research the companies that will be attending. A list of the participating employers and more information is available online at www.waubonsee.edu/careerservices. Be sure to bring plenty of résumés, dress professionally and know what you will say to potential employers. These and other tips are also available online.
If you are your own boss, or would like to start a new business, Waubonsee can provide assistance. The Illinois Small Business Development Center, housed at the college's downtown Aurora campus, provides management, marketing and financial counseling to prospective and current small business owners. Not surprisingly, more business people are taking advantage of the SBDC's free services, which can help sustain local business even in this troubled economy. The expert SBDC staff helps prepare business plans, explores financing options, creates marketing strategies and much more.
Waubonsee's Workforce Development Department also offers a number of programs that aid both individuals and companies. In addition to a wide range of career-oriented classroom offerings, Waubonsee provides customized on-site training for companies looking to stay on the leading edge of their industries. This training often helps businesses improve efficiencies and competitiveness that can positively impact the bottom line.
Whether you are looking for a new job, run your own business, plan to start a business, or want to take a few classes and maybe earn a degree, remember that Waubonsee Community College may be able to assist you. Many of the college's services are free or very affordable. In this recession we have found that our community needs our services more than ever.