The 6th Annual Metro Center/1199 WorkForce 2000 Career Conference took place on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at NYU's Silver Center. Metro Center's Upward Bound/1199 WorkForce component was developed to assist students with the exploration of career/workforce skills, techniques, and opportunities.

In the morning session, 150 students attended four different workshops, each of which addressed a particular aspect of employment preparation and success that have proven to be vital in the career development process. In Success in the Workplace, conducted by Leah Lattimore, Career Development Counselor at the NYU Wasserman Center, our students learned important tips about what an employer looks for in an employee; how to stand out amongst peers and how to be successful in their summer jobs/internships. The second workshop, Interviewing 101, focused on developing good interviewing skills and the proper preparation for an interview, from gathering information about oneself and the company/agency before an interview, to considering questions that may be asked during the actual interview which were deftly provided by Rebecca McDonough, VP of Human Resources from Marsh Inc. / Certified School Counselor and Danielle Lee, Secretarial Supervisor from Sidley Austin LLP/Certified School Counselor. Tips on the process of creating a solid resume and winning cover letter were the focus of the third workshop, conducted by veteran career conference presenter Paula Lee, Director of the NYU Wasserman Center for Career Development. Dress for Success, intended to teach our students the do's and don'ts of making a good impression through professional attire, was adeptly presented for the second year by 1199's own Rosemarie Michelle Hill, Manager Program Services 1199/SEIU Employer Child Care Funds, whose interactive session was indeed the highlight of the morning as it was not only informative, but fun for all.

Additionally, students had the opportunity to explore prospective career paths during the afternoon Career Conversation Groups that were hosted by a group of dynamic young professionals and students from various industries and professions including: fashion; pharmacy; physical & occupational therapy; various medical careers; business, journalism and music business; forensic science and criminal justice ; law; psychology and the helping professions; music production and engineering /computer technology.

During these ‘Career Conversations', panelists shared details about their career passions, a typical day in their life as a professional or student and tips on preparing for this career field. Afterwards students had the opportunity to ask questions and deliver to them a short networking pitch about themselves and their future goals.

The 6th Annual Career Conference was truly a nurturing, educational, and rewarding experience not only for our students but also for staff and guests.