New York Q&A: How is the Job Hunting Going?

NEW YORK– At a Harlem job fair on Wednesday Aug. 15, The Epoch Times asked job seekers: What is your employment situation and how did the job fair help you?

Benita Sewer, 30, student at CUNY

I have learned and gained experience of the work environment where jobs are opening now. It’s mostly training that they’re looking for, which is great because that gives people an advantage when jobs are open. I’m content with this fair. I’ve been to 25 fairs this past year. I’m currently studying public relations at the City College of New York. I want to be a public relations specialist. 

Albert King, 57, previously a cook at a medical center

I’ve worked all my life. This is my first time at a job fair. I’ve been unemployed for over a year now. It’s exhilarating. You have so many things to choose from. I look for a job everyday online, and I’m in a program at Goodwill, Lord it’s hard. Online you just get an outline, but you get the full information here when you talk to people. They actually look through your résumé; they tell you how many openings they have. It was beneficial for me. Food service, security, technical. … Some don’t even need experience. I picked up a free technology class this Friday. I think I’m   going to go do that too.

Lucille Omaro, 29, previously a cashier 

I’ve had jobs as cashiers. I came here because I want to do something different, get into banking, or maybe become a home health aide. 

Renee Rol, 49, administrative work

I do have two leads. One was Time Warner, the second one is Enterprise Incorporated; they took my résumé. Hopefully they will call. I’ve been unemployed for about a year now. I was doing administrative work. This is my first job fair. I’ve been diligent in seeking new jobs every day. 

 Michael White, 19

I just finished school. This is my first time at a job fair. I met a lot of good people today. They’re all willing to talk to you and help you. I’m looking for some construction work before I join the Army. They gave out good resources.

 Gregory Furtson, 58 

I used to be a residential counselor. I’ve been unemployed for three years. I was very actively looking for a job last year. I often come to these job fairs. I’ve been to five this past year. I’m looking for a job as a substance counselor, case manager, outreach work.

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