Ready to Start Your Job Search?

Ochoa encourages students to access the career services available at DVC. Her time as a peer advisor has helped grow her confidence as she pursues a career in education. After graduating with her associate in science in early childhood education, Ochoa plans to transfer to San Francisco State University to obtain her bachelor’s degree.

“I want to teach a bilingual class at an elementary school so I can provide extra support for students. I know what it’s like having to learn a second language other than the one you grew up with,” said Ochoa.

Job search skills for now, for life

“We see all kinds of students here, ranging from recent high school grads who have never created a resume to nontraditional students who have gone through college and are now coming back to get that extra certification because they are changing careers. These students might have a lot of work experience, but it may be in a completely different field so they need to create a resume that elevates their newly-learned skills,” said Marina Varela, the interim senior program coordinator for career services at DVC.

Varela encourages students to ask for a mock interview to develop greater professionalism in their communication.

“The mock interview begins the moment they arrive for their appointment and approach the front desk, all the way until they leave. I provide feedback afterwards, so they know where they did well and where they need to improve,” said Varela.

Varela feels she connects with students because she comes from a place of understanding.

“I actually spent four years as a DVC student because I didn’t want to ask for help. I didn’t realize that it was their job, that all these resources were there for me to access. That’s what I want DVC students to know – that we are here for them,” said Varela.