From Class to Career: A new career fair links SDSU students to County Health & Human Services for potential jobs
SDSU alumni account for 52% of SD County’s HHSA leadership.
San Diego State University students will get a new opportunity to explore careers in health and human services through workshops, networking, and direct access to employers from the County’s Health and Human Services Agency during a new three-day event on campus.
Hosted by SDSU’s College of Health and Human Services in partnership with the County of San Diego and the Live Well Center for Innovation and Leadership, the inaugural Health & Human Services Careers Week takes place March 24–26 at the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.
“A degree no longer suffices in the modern job market, and building connections is integral to securing a job related to your studies,” explained Chrishael Sanchez, a senior in SDSU’s School of Public Health.
“You have to start building postgraduation connections now. Since I want to stay in San Diego, with a job in my field, this is my opportunity to advocate for myself and engage in a network interested in recruiting SDSU students.”
The niche partnership connecting SDSU students academically and professionally with HHSA began with an innovative venture between the university and the county in 2022 – with the collaborative creation of the Live Well Center for Innovation and Leadership.
“LWCIL was created to strengthen the link between academics and practice in education, research, workforce development, and service that advances health equity in San Diego County,” said its director, Nicole Magnuson, who explained the collaboration benefits both organizations.
“HHSA depends on SDSU for its current and future workforce,” Magnuson said. “Besides providing fulfilling careers, we collaborate on research that informs policy and practice.”
The joint venture seemed inevitable, as 52% of HHSA’s leadership are SDSU alumni. That’s an enticing reason for Elizabeth Mendoza Ortega, an SDSU senior in the School of Social Work, to attend.
“I want to be a social worker in a setting where I can make a meaningful impact with individuals and my community, and looking at the leadership in HHSA, I feel like I can learn more about the industry and employer expectations and the skills I need to be competitive in San Diego’s job market.”
Ortega’s motivation aligns well with the commitment and strategy of the College of Health and Human Services, explained CHHS Dean Amy Bonomi.
“Our Career Week directly aligns with all four of CHHS’ strategic pillars: Leading Community Impact, Advancing Innovative Practices, Developing Students for Compelling Careers, and We Are CHHS – which focuses on strengthening and building collaborations,” said Bonomi.
Job Readiness
For Anadelia Jaramillo, a third-year public health major focused on environmental health, there’s a practical side to the County engaging students on campus. “As someone who doesn't have a car, it is so helpful for me to meet with these companies in an accessible space.”
The HHSA Career Fair welcomes all SDSU majors, departments, students, and alumni. It runs from March 24 to 26 at the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union and along the Centennial Walkway.
Day 1: Public Health Career Fair (Noon-2 p.m.)
Students and alumni from all majors and colleges are encouraged to attend the Public Health Career Fair, where they can explore various roles, interact with hiring managers, and learn about internships and employment opportunities.
Day 2: Interviewing and Resume Workshop (1-3 p.m.)
These sessions focus on career-building skills. County professionals will lead a resume and interviewing workshop, giving participants hands-on guidance to stand out in competitive hiring processes. Later in the evening, the reservations-only “Meet the People Networking” event will connect students with SDSU alumni currently working at HHSA.
Day 3: County of San Diego Health & Human Services Careers Fair (3-5 p.m.)
The week culminates in an immersive “How To” workshop led by HHSA hiring professionals. This session provides students a road map to applying for jobs within the county, highlighting the various career pathways available.
