Nonprofit HBCU CDM helps college students get job offers

More than 300 top students from 24 Historically Black Colleges and Universities from more than 9 states spanning from Pennsylvania down to Louisiana learned what it takes to get noticed and stand out when it comes to looking for a job or furthering their education. These students were selected to participate in the 10th Annual HBCU Career Development Marketplace, which was held in November at The Hotel at the University of Maryland.

The HBCU Career Development Marketplace is a nonprofit that was started by Tariq Shane, as it was his dream to give back to HBCU students. Since its inception, the HBCU Career Development Marketplace has educated more than 3,000 HBCU students about corporate America and helped them find careers in their preferred industries.

The first two days of the event, the students participated in career development events like resume reviewing and advice, networking with professionals in their prospective fields, workshops and panels, and an oral competition. The third day was dedicated to matching students with prospective employers for full-time jobs or internships, and some students were offered positions on the spot.

“Every year HBCU CDM gets bigger and better,” Shane said. “Our board members met with students to help connect them to great opportunities. Students from two colleges didn’t go to their homecomings because they wanted to participate in this event. That’s how much this event means to them.”

As a Gulf War veteran, Shane felt that no one should be left behind and everyone needs a strong support network. The HBCU Career Development Marketplace gives talented students an opportunity to meet representatives from major corporations as well as mentors. Shane’s goal is to match the right student with a great job.

The 300 students received free transportation, hotel rooms, and meals, too, making the event accessible to students who may not be able to afford the opportunity. The HBCU Career Development Marketplace is held every November in the Washington, D.C. area.

hbcucareermarket.org

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