ARLINGTON, Va., - The National Guard will host a Money for College Virtual Career Fair from 2-8 p.m., (EST) May 6.
The online event, which replicates the attractions of a real-world career fair, will allow those interested in serving their community and country to interact with National Guard representatives and other guests without the travel or pressures of a face-to-face meeting.
The event is open to everyone looking for ways to pay for their college education, particularly those with an interest in serving their country.
National Guard units from all states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories, will be represented.
“Young men and women who want to serve their community and their country get most of their information online,” said Army Maj. Elaine Gullotta, the program director for the National Guard Virtual Career Fair. “By reaching out to them in this venue we have the opportunity to explain the mission of the Guard and the education benefits available to them while they are logged in to their computers at home, or at school, or at their local coffee shop.”
A December 2009 Pew Internet Research survey showed that an incredible 93 percent of 18-29 year olds use the Internet. The virtual career fair environment combines all of the communication elements young adults already use, such as chats, avatars, information downloads, and video.
Attendees will move around a representation of a three-dimensional career fair campus. In the exhibition hall, they will have access to booths staffed by National Guard representatives. They will also be able to take in featured programming at the National Guard auditorium and chat with other attendees and Guard personnel in a lounge area.
“I can’t think of a more convenient, hassle-free way to learn about all the Guard has to offer and all the ways we can help pay for college,” Gullotta said. “There are no phone calls, no pressure, and no obligation to join. Just register, log in, learn, and network.”
To participate in the National Guard’s Money for College Virtual Career Fair, register online at www.NATIONALGUARD.com/virtual, and log in to the event on May 6.