April 15 was a notable day for Bakersfield College (BC) social science majors, as they had the opportunity to network with employers and organizations throughout the Central Valley. BC Career Education hosted the Social & Behavioral Sciences Job Fair at the Renegade Crossroads from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., where representatives were happy to answer questions and enlighten students about the opportunities offered in the field of social science.
Before or after graduation, students can become either part-time or full-time assistants, interns, or volunteers for counselors, educators, program managers, technicians, and specialists for patients experiencing various mental health conditions. For example, the Valley Achievement Center and Autism Behavior Services Inc. specialize in autism, caring for children and adults who need assistance with their education. Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital and Aspire Behavioral Health provide crisis care roles in a hospital setting. In addition to local organizations, the BC Social & Behavioral Science Pathway, the BC Career Education, and the BC Office of Financial Aid booths were available to answer general questions about networking and academics.
Desirable candidates, according to the local recruiters, are open-minded, patient, and uphold an understanding attitude towards clients. Rachel Lanier, Executive Director of Aspire Behavioral Health, adds her favorite candidates are “eager to learn, humble, and work well in a team.” However, the most common answer were employees who are dedicated towards making a positive impact on others’ lives.
Mental health is frequently stigmatized, often approached with a lack of empathy towards the afflicted. Educational non-profits, such as NAMI, are looking to hire Peer Support Specialists who have experienced substance abuse, depression, and other mental health challenges.
“They don’t know what to do. They don’t know where to go. They don’t know how to move forward in their lives. You just have a desire to share a helping hand,” explains Sharon Woolfolk, NAMI President.
Woolfolk shared the story of a loved one who was at their lowest, prior to gaining support through NAMI. She learned to provide the most love to people during times of need instead of abandoning them and grappling with the changes that inevitably occur.
“We know that she’s not the same person. We have to accept her for who she is. It’s what we call ‘new normal,’” says Woolfolk.
