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Job fair: opportunistic reveal

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Job fair: opportunistic reveal

Any curious student who had the urge to wander into the Coeur d’ Alene Room in the SUB on April 19, most likely didn’t leave without at least one idea for a possible summer job.

The Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation Leadership Career Fair was hosted and organized by the student of the Hospitality RRM 225 course, and it invited spokesmen from various North Idaho businesses to come and set up booths for NIC students to investigate and probe for job opportunities. Whether the job description was floating the river for the US Forest Service, or making espresso for the visitors of Schweitzer Sky resort, the enthusiastic members of every organization represented at the fair had a similar message: They have something for everyone.

The first booth to catch your eye was the table framed by the massive poster of the epic view from Schweitzer Mountain. When asked why students should consider working for the ski resort, representative Mary Peterson laughed.“Um, besides from earning a free season pass to ski or snowboard?”

Despite this being a legitimate reward for working there, Peterson got serious. “Well, there’s a lot. People mainly think of us as a ski industry, but we have out summer season too.”

Schweitzer is offering food and beverage jobs, lodging, and administration, in addition to all the outdoor recreation as well. Right now, Schweitzer is on the hunt for up to 200 seasonal employees.

“It’s a great time to get your foot in the door, if you’re interested in working there in the winter,” Peterson said. “There’s plenty of opportunity for both seasons.”

Next was a walk in the woods with the folks from the U.S Forest service.

“Working for us gives students opportunities to see some of the most beautiful country in the world,” said Tim Knight, a district ranger. “We also offer lots of different jobs.”

If patrolling lakes is your thing, then they have that. Maybe you’d rather be a river or trail patrolman? Well look no further. Basically, if the great outdoors is your dream office, than the forest service is the place to be.

“And you’re also serving the public,” said Shoshana Cooper, a public affairs officer. “Whatever you do, it’s on public land. So it’s a really good opportunity to get out there and serve.”

A lot of students, however, aren’t exactly looking for jobs outside of the city. For these students, there were a few lower key options on the table. One of which was a hospitality position at the Marriott Spring Hill Suites close to downtown near Riverstone.

“It’s a very positive environment,” said Sam Johnson, an employee of the Suites. “It’s very fun. We’re all like family there.”

If you want to make some dough at the number one resort in CdA, than stop in and drop off a resume soon.

Feeling like working on a mountain, and getting a season ski pass as a bonus? Then head to www.schweitzer.com to check out all the different jobs.

Despite having to brave the bugs and the dirt and the weather, if getting a pay check to hang out outdoors sounds like your thing, than go to www.usajobs.gov and fill out an application for the forest service today.

Gabriel Theander is a fearless, thrill seeking reporter for the Sentinel. There is nothing he won't do to get the story. After long days of work and studying, he enjoys piping hot coffee and rock climbing.

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