What began as a vision of education and career development for LGBT students has evolved into a strong five-year partnership with Sodexo. Each year, Sodexo and the “Out for Work” organization team up to provide opportunities and career guidance for students leaving academia for the workforce.

The 5th Annual “Out for Work” National Student Career Conference garnered over 600 job seekers this year in Washington, DC. The annual career fair, which took place on September 27th, offered student professionals the ability to participate in a number of activities from one-on-one resume review to panel discussions and employer breakout sessions. Organizations and industry leaders representing various facets of the job market participate every year in the conference. With Sodexo being in its fifth year of partnership with “Out for Work,” it provided a great opportunity to meet students interested in entering the job market and learning more about the company.

Sodexo employees (left to right) tending the booth at the “Out for Work”: Tami Carter-McNulty, David Gaughan, Terry Seravalli and Celia Whitney.

“Out for Work” began in 2004 as a vision from founder Riley Folds, who saw an educational opportunity to develop LGBT students entering the workforce. “Out for Work” offers programs, resources and services to aid in the enhancement of job-searching skills. It also enables students to explore career options, master job-search techniques and strategies, and research employment opportunities. The national career fair in DC is just one avenue.

Sodexo participated in one-on-one student breakout sessions where students could learn more about the company and ask questions in a smaller venue. It was a great opportunity for Sodexo managers and recruiters to discuss the open job opportunities and positions available within the organization at all levels.

“We were pleased to see such an incredible turnout this year,” noted Sodexo Senior Recruiter Celia Whitney. “We interfaced with so many eager and excited students and look forward to all the internship applications that will begin to surface over the next several months.”

Including the various career fairs, “Out for Work” travels the nation presenting on the topic of transitioning from academia to the workforce, attending PRIDE and LGBT events, and visiting college campuses speaking to LGBT campus groups.

To learn more about Sodexo’s message on inclusion and our employee network group (PRIDE), click here: Diversity and Inclusion at Sodexo