For students looking to improve their job market skills for the future, UA Career Services is now in business.

Career Services began this year with an event Wednesday designed to promote their services, give students advice to prepare for their careers and advertise events coming later in the fall.

At the event, students were schooled on resume critiques, employer networking, services and resources while enjoying free pizza and soda.

“”We help students realize their dream future and that is our goal – for you guys to get what you want,”” said Susan Miller, senior marketing coordinator for Career Services.

Career Services stresses the importance of having a one-minute speech to promote yourself and your goals to future employers. There was even a mock interview booth where students could practice this personal one- to two-minute commercial in front of employers.

Matthew Rasmusson, a molecular and cellular biology freshman attended the fair to practice these mock interviews, he said.

“”I want to improve my interview skills, because I’m bad at answering questions sometimes,”” he said.

Another popular activity on the day was the resume-checking service. Employers such as Enterprise Rental Car were present and individually checked students’ resumes and provided advice on resume writing.

Coming up for Career Services is the school year’s first Career Fair on Sept. 23 and 24 that will bring more employers than ever to the UA, Miller said.

“”I think this university is increasing in prestige,”” she said. “”The students are very much in demand.”” Among the employers coming to campus this year are major corporations such as Charles Schwab, American Express and Abercrombie and Fitch, Miller added.

Campus interviewing was also a service promoted during the day. This is where employers come to the campus to interview students.

“”There’s a misperception that (Career Services is) only for certain students,”” Miller said. “”The fact is, it’s across the board.””

Another service Career Services offers throughout the year is career counseling to students. The counselors were also on hand during the event, offering suggestions on dressing for interviews, researching employers and using career development resources. Appointments can be made throughout the year to talk to career counselors one on one.

Miller believes the most important message for Career Services to get across is “”you need to figure out what you want to do – you need to follow your own dreams, your own goals,”” she said. “”Really look at who you are, what your values and goals are. Pursue a career in that realm, and we’ll help along the way.””