Even the rainy forecast couldn’t stop the Spring Job and Internship Fair from taking place on April 22. The fair was held in the Cultural Community Center for the first time. Students could connect with employers without stepping in puddles or tucking under umbrellas.
The new location received varied responses from employers, according to Career Center coordinator Kristine Vanderhoof, who has organized job fairs at LPC for years.
“Feedback that I got from the employers (is) that they talk to more students when the fair is outside,” Vanderhoof said. Around 200 students attended the indoor job fair. Outdoor fairs typically see about 300 students.
“The majority of them do prefer to be outside,” Vanderhoof said. “A few liked being indoors because students that come to a fair indoors are more intentional about going to the job fair.”
The Cultural Community Center was packed with tables and chairs, even outside the room. Employers ranged from small businesses to well-known institutions, such as the San Jose Police Department. Most were from business, food service or educational fields. Most were local employers.
“It’s a way to connect with employers, people who are hiring, and see what they’re doing.” LPC student and business major Hawa Amani said.
LPC students working for companies that were tabling shared their experiences with other students.
LPC student Ayaan Ali tabled for Norcal Ambulance. While he didn’t discover Norcal Ambulance at a job fair, he did find out about it through LPC. Now a part-time EMT, Ali said that the jobs offered at fairs are important opportunities for students.
“I think they’re important for financial needs,” Ali said. “(You) also get experience. What you want to do in life.”
Business major Hallah Alkatib was one student looking into different pathways at the fair. “I came here to look for a part-time job in finance,” she said, “and I wanted to explore other options in business.”
Students walked away from the fair with flyers, treats and new opportunities. “I feel like we got a lot of goodies and like 50 new people that we now know,” Alkatib said.
Job fairs like this one allow students to make face-to-face connections with employers — something that’s missing when applying online. An in-person conversation can make all the difference when employers are reviewing hundreds of faceless online applications.
“When (there’s) a positive connection, that can really boost a student’s opportunity to get a job or internship,” Vanderhood said. “Because applying online, they’re just another resume.”
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TOP PHOTO: A representative from Bay Homes & Windows greets a job seeker at the Spring Job and Internship Fair at Las Positas College in Livermore, Calif. on April 22, 2026. Bay Homes & Windows was one of over 30 employers that attended. An estimated 200 students also came to the fair, which was held inside because of rainy weather. Photo courtesy of Las Positas College.
Nuha Maflahi is the Campus Life Editor for The Express. Follow her on X @NuhaMaflahiLPC.
