Andrew Raven
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (May 26/04) - For many students, the hardest summer job is finding one. That's why the Government of Canada is sponsoring a program designed to link students with prospective employers.

Based on the second floor of the Panda II Mall, the Hire-a-Student initiative gives young workers access to a growing database of job postings.

"It can be hard for students to find jobs," said co-ordinator Lindsay Beck.

"We're here to help students find a job and teach them how to do things like write a resume and prepare for an interview."

The program is being run by a local consulting firm on behalf of Human Resources and Development Canada. Beck hopes to have hundreds of jobs posted, ranging from landscaping to waitressing to office work.

"Most students are willing to do any job," said Beck. "It's just nice to have an income."

Most of the students who use the centre's resources are in college said Beck, who just finished her first year at the University of Alberta.

But the program is open to everyone from high school students to university graduates.

Beck says the most popular jobs are in government because they pay well and look good on your resume. She also encouraged employers looking for summer help to drop off their postings at the centre.

Students looking for work can also check out jobs at www.jobbank.go.ca

But while there are lots of resources out there, students still need to take the initiative said Beck.

"It's up to them to find a job. We're here to help."