The first In-Demand Occupational/Technical Programs and College Fair held at the Hobbs Suffolk Campus of Paul D. Camp Community College recently drew more than 60 participants.

The event was a collaborative effort of Student Support Services and the Students Transitioning through Education Programs Successfully.

“This was an opportunity for students to glean information about the various PDCCC occupational/technical programs and transferring to senior colleges and universities,” said Dr. Hyler Scott, associate professor and counselor for Student Support Services.

This was the first time that an on-campus event of this scope has been held for the students, whether they are continuing their education, going straight into the workforce or entering a branch of the military.

“Student success is a collaborative agenda at PDCCC and is at the core of our mission,” said STEPS Coach Dr. Sandra Walker. “With this event, we were able to combine the resources of the STEPS and SSS Programs as an effective approach to expanding students’ knowledge of in-demand jobs training and education programs available at PDCCC, and avenues for skill building and lifelong learning beyond PDCCC.”

Although a formal survey will be sent to the students in order to receive feedback, Scott and Walker said they have already heard positive comments from a number of participants.

“The students really appreciated the fact that they were able to meet all the representatives in a central area to gather information,” said Scott. “Many of the college representatives said they were impressed by how we work collaboratively on campus to provide support and services to our students.”

Scott added, “I am truly thankful for all of the support we received that made this event such a success. We couldn’t have done this without the organizational team of SSS Transfer Coordinator Walter Biggs, Professional Counselor Dr. Alan Harris and STEPS Coach Dr. Sandra Walker.”

For more information about SSS or the STEPS program, visit www.pdc.edu.