Helping students find jobs

At the Career Services Center, where students can conduct job searches, obtain information on possible career paths and receive advice from a career counselor, Debra Joseph-Locke, the department secretary, will gladly assist them in their pursuits.
"I enjoy working with students; it gives me great pleasure to help contribute to their academic education as well as broadening their world views," said Locke.
Locke began working at SMC in 1997 as a temporary secretary, and after just six months she was promoted to the position of Community Services Assistant, where she assumed a hands-on approach to working with students and staff. The program at the time served 162 students.
"Debra Locke helped me immensely," said SMC student Melissa Gold who credits Locke with helping her determine which career she wanted to pursue. "I finally decided on nursing. With Ms. Locke's help I now know what I have to do to realize this goal. She is awesome; she goes out of her way to help people," Gold said.
Locke, who is currently working towards her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services so she can use her skills in a greater capacity to further help students, expressed love for her job.
"I have been fortunate in that I work with a very knowledgeable and dedicated team in the CSC, which has made my job not just easier, but also more fulfilling," said Locke.
Many students are interested in finding internships, and most are seeking advice on resume writing, cover letters and office etiquette. Locke has extensive background in the following industries: airline, non-profit, advertising and marketing, which can be of great help for students considering one of these areas as a career choice.
Locke wants to continue to help students achieve their fullest potential here at SMC and contribute even more to "the Santa Monica family," as she calls the collective group consisting of staff and students.