A career recruitment fair was open on April 26 at the Poster Street, the University Common and the Student Activity Center respectively. Number of the companies and enterprises that participated in the fair increased by 27, comparing with last year’s 108. Those newcomers include Starbucks, D-link and Toshiba, among many others. Most of the exhibitors are from high-tech industries, retail chain stores, airlines, and financial institutions that include banks, investment firms and insurance companies. Educational organizations such as publishers and language centers were also present.

This event was organized by the Career Planning and Placement Section of Office of Student Affairs, who distributed special reports and booklets that provide detailed employment information on exhibitors and their locations at the fair as well as other tidbits, such as professional qualifications, certification examinations and even graduate studies in Taiwan and abroad that would aid students focus on their career choices.

More specifically, the Section also reminds students to keep a clear head when talking to exhibitors and possible future employers. To do so, they need to remember five “no” policy: First is to say no to handing in money for any fee that is unexplainable; second no is not to buy products of unknown origin; third no is not to hand over one’s personal IDs and credit cards; fourth no is refuse to sign documents that have no clear purposes; and finally the fifth no is to refuse to accept any employment condition that is against basic labor regulations. Each time, when considering a possible employment, students need to ask themselves: Is it legal? Is the company’s operation in jeopardy? Will my safety be compromised? Is this only a front for something else? Is the pay reasonable? These principles and questions are essential for graduates who have little experience. When there is little experience available, then knowing what one wants and the market needs could prevent from deception and guarantee success. (~ Ying-hsueh Hu )