In a weak economic climate, even part-time and seasonal employment can be hard to come by.

To give students a leg up, Temple’s Career Center recently hosted its sixth annual Part-Time and Summer Job Fair on Thursday in the Student Center Atrium.

The fair, which brought together representatives of both local businesses and non-profit organizations, is geared toward all students, but especially those seeking to build real-world work experience. Event director Linda Lawton says the fair is designed to connect them to as many employers as possible.

It appears to be working. Despite a fluctuating national economy, said Lawton, “we’re actually seeing an increase in the number of employers coming back to campus, looking for student workers. So there are many opportunities for students to get their foot in the door.”

Employers represented at the fair included the Apple Store, Grassroots Campaign and Rite Aid.

“We don’t want students to think that this is a gateway to a full-time, entry-level position,” said Lawton. “This is simply a means to help students at all levels to build their resumes, and to get that ever-important experience.”

Although it is an informal affair, students need to be prepared with resumes, contact info, and even a trip to the Career Center for extra assistance. Lawton said the opportunity to network and build connections, even if a job isn’t offered on the spot, is still an invaluable step in the job hunting process.

“Get experience as early as possible,” she stressed. “Internships. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors — get internships.”

The Career Center has already started setting their itinerary for fall 2012 and spring 2013 semesters.