Regardless of whether they are students, displaced workers or both, many of the individuals at the career fair sponsored by the Youngstown Campus of National College on Tuesday expressed one common goal: They are all hoping to find a job.
"That's why I'm here," explained Kimbirle Krok, of Cortland. "I worked at a factory job for 14 years before the company shut down. With three kids I need something stable, a job that can help me take care of them. I'm looking at all of my options."
Krok, who is studying to be a medical assistant at National College, located on Belmont Avenue in Liberty, is scheduled to graduate in 2011.
She joined more than a dozen other Youngstown National College students who found their way to the career fair Tuesday.
The event featured 13 vendors either looking to hire people or provide information about educational opportunities. Representatives from Nicholson Center of Warren, Office Team of Boardman, Verizon Wireless, Comfort Keepers and Sam's Club were among the vendors.
Although National College students were encouraged to attend the fair, it was also open to the public. There was no cost for job seekers or prospective employers to participate.
National College also has locations in Kentucky, Virginia, Indiana and Tennessee. The institution offers associate's degrees and diploma programs in business, computer, and medical fields.