ORLANDO, Fla.-- Kristin Harmel, author known for her chick lit genre, visits the West Campus at Valencia Community College July 06. In addition to talking about herself, she inspired and gave students tips on how to make it in the industry of a journalist.

Harmel has published 7 novels in the U.S. and some of her books have been translated in other languages around the world. Besides writing her novels she is currently a journalist for People magazine and has also worked as a journalist for Men’s Health, Glamour, YM, Woman’s Day and many more.

Harmel was approached by the renown Chubby Checker, singer-songwriter on collaborating with her on a auto- biography. “ He is such a humble guy, I couldn’t believe he wanted me to work for him, I speak to him almost every single day.” Harmel.

She has had the pleasure in interviewing many other celebrities like, Ben Affleck, cast of Harry Potter, Matthew McConaughey.

Many teen have been buzzing about Harmels books, saying that they can keep the book down for a second, in regards to her book “ When You Wish”.

Harmel advised students that the most important thing to remember when taking the journey into becoming a journalist is to never think less of yourself. Saying “ You are all writers .“ also adding that ,“ It’s hard work and long hours.”

Kristin Harmel with her charismatic personality has accomplished many things in her career and continues her pursue to turn kids in into passionate readers as well as one day hoping one of her books becomes a film. She truly enjoys what she does and wouldn’t change it for anything.

For more information on Kristin Harmel or her books please visit her website www.kristinharmel.com

 The University of Central Florida provides tools and resources to help the community, find jobs in the filed they are seeking. 

 

Kathy Rancourt, counselor  from Career Services gave tips on May 27, 2010 to students and non-students  from the University of Central Florida in their workshop called " Job Search Strategies" 

 

"80% of jobs are in the hidden job market, leaving 20% open" said Rancourt. 

 Rancourt believes that Networking is the most important step in obtaining that position one dreams of. It's who you know and who knows your work ethic.

 

The second most important step would be, polishing you resume and getting ready for an interview. Most people state their skill but when asked to give an example they are blank, making it important to set a meeting with her or with another counselors before the actual interview.  

 

The last time Nicole Monaco looked for a job was 1987, and after the workshop she believes she has the tools she needs to qualify for the position she applied to. The workshop has given her a "Inside look to what employers are looking for in the current job force".

 Annie Jasiewicz, feels the event didn't give her any new tips but it did give her resources that can help her look of a job, like the Careerinsider.com and Knight Link for UCF students. 

 

Rancourt strongly believes that "you will get a lot of no's, but you only need one yes", making it important to set yourself higher then other applicants, just by using 2 of the several strategies. 

 

For further information you can visit www.career.ucf.edu or meet with one of the Peer Counselor at the Ferrell Commons Bldg. 7F, Room 185