Some On Point graduates had trouble finding jobs because they did not have professional networks in the community.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- A Syracuse nonprofit that helps urban youths get into college also is helping them line up jobs.
On Point for College held a jobs fair for students and graduates today at Onondaga Community College where they got to meet with representatives of more than 30 area employers including Syracuse University, Upstate Medical University, Welch Allyn, Bank of N.Y. Mellon and the Syracuse Police Department.
On Point holds two jobs fairs each year designed to help students find summer jobs and internships, and graduates find permanent jobs.
On Point has helped more than 500 students graduate from college since the nonprofit was established in 1999. On Point provides supplies, counseling, help filling out financial aid forms, transportation to and from college and other assistance to help students attend college and succeed.
Four years ago the nonprofit started a division, On Point for Jobs, that helps students prepare for life after college.
“As students started graduating, we noticed even some of our brightest and best students were having a hard time bridging into the workforce,” said Ginny Donohue, executive director of On Point.
Nearly all the students are the first in their families go to college and have no professional networks in the community to help them find jobs, she said.
On Point shows them how to build networks, write resumes and prepare for interviews.