2B --- Career push Wednesday February 7,2001 Helping can benefit job finding Employers often look for altruistic employees Mark Nelson, Overland Park senior, fills an order for customers in the Jubilee Cafe. Nelson has volunteered his early morning hours two days a week since last spring break in order to give back to the community. Photo by Joanna Fewins/KANSAN By Karen Lucas Kansan correspondent Even though filling breakfast orders at the crack of dawn doesn't earn Mark Nelson a paycheck, it pays off in other wavs. Every Tuesday and Friday, the Overland Park senior gets up at 5:40 a.m. to help serve a hot meal to the homeless and other less fortunate individuals at the Jubilee Cafe in Trinity Episcopal Church, 1011 Vermont St. The cafe is one of several volunteer programs sponsored by the University of Kansas' Center for Community Outreach. "It's nice to know that I'm helping out others, and it's fun to get to know the other regular volunteers," Nelson said while taking a short break from his kitchen duties on a recent Friday morning. Nelson, a computer science major, has been volunteering at the cafe on a steady basis for almost a year. He said a trip he took with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship last spring "Sometimes students have the idea that experience is only valued by employers if it's paid, and this is not true. Anything you do on a volunteer nature that helps to organize people or coordinates programs develops cooperation." your leadership abilities." Ann J. Hartley Associate director for University Career and Employment Services break to an inner-city church in St. Louis inspired him to get involved with the homeless upon returning to Lawrence. him develop various skills. In addition to lending a helping hand and m ak i g f r i e n d s. Nelson's experience at the cafe has helped Members of KU campus groups often work at the cafe as first-time volunteers. "I've learned leadership and com munication skills here," he said. "Being one of the regulars, I'm able to share my knowledge with people who are new." Perhaps no one is as familiar with the contributions of Nelson and other volunteers than the Rev. Joe Alford, who has directed the cafe since it began in 1994. Writing recommendation letters for his student workers is something Alford relishes. "I'm just delighted to do it because I feel I really get to know the students," he said. "I get to see them under the best conditions and the worst conditions of dealing with people." Ann J. Hartley, associate director for the University Career and Employment Services, said students shouldn't underestimate the way volunteer work could impress prospective employers. "Sometimes students have the idea that experience is only valued by employers if it's paid, and this is not true," she said. "Anything you do on a volunteer nature that helps to organize people or coordinates programs develops your leadership abilities." Yet skill development isn't the only reason employers might be interested in an applicant's community service. Diane Douglas, human resources director for Douglas County Bank, said the bank considered volunteer experience in the hiring process because it encouraged its employees to volunteer. About 75 percent of the staff participates in volunteer activities. "Being a locally owned and operated business, we feel it's important that our employees be actively involved in the community," she said. Nelson's future employers can count on his commitment to volunteering. "I still plan to do volunteer work because there will be people with a lot less than myself," he said. Angela Gashaw, sophomore, carefully lifts biscuits cut from fresh dough. Jubilee Cafe volunteers spend several hours every Tuesday and Friday morning preparing breakfasts. Photo by Joanna Fewins/KANSAN HOROSCOPES Today's Birthday (Feb. 7). Your partner wants to take control, so there's a battle pending. Don't worry, you'll both emerge stronger and wiser. Opposites definitely attract in February. Heed a dear friend or sibling's advice in April, and play by old-fashioned rules in May. Set long-term goals together in June and formalize your agreement in August. By November no obstacles can stop you. In December celebrate your new status. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Today is a 7. Listen to a loved one who may oppose your team strategy. The opposition is most likely right. A surprising development will probably convince you. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Today is a 5. If you thought you were stubborn, you ought to see who's hassling it out today. In fact, you probably will. You might be just off to one side of the argument. That's a good place to stay. Don't offer advice unless they ask for it. Gemini (May 21-June 21) — Today is a 7. Set priorities or you'll spend all day running back and forth. Organize your list so you can be more efficient. Cancer (June 22-July 22) — Today is a 5. Be careful if you're a wheeler-dealer. First you have the advantage, then the other person does, then you. Just remember what the other person did before, and you can come out the winner. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Today is a 7. You're pretty confident, but are you realistic or just full of bravado? Ask yourself that question. The other person's not swaggering quite as much but could be a little smarter. Initially, anyway. Virgo (Aug. 25-Sept. 22) — Today is a 4. No one seems to know what you're supposed to be doing at work. You might figure it out before they do. Wait until they stop arguing; it's hard for them to listen when they're hollering at each other. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct 22) — Today is an 8. You're looking pretty good. And you could be quite useful. You're a natural arbitrator, and people nearby need one. They may ask you to intervene if their negotiations are breaking down. Perhaps you could make a tactical suggestion. Scarpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Today is a 5. You're a great strategist, but first figure out which side should win. A current battle can help you achieve your objectives. First make up your mind, then watch for your opportunity. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — Today is an 8. You're not one of the students or one of the teachers. You're monitoring this class and have nothing to lose. You already know most of the answers, too. Be gentle. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Today is a 4. Pay attention to where your money is going. If anybody else is spending it, make sure it's being spent wisely. The other person may have the authority, but you have the common sense. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Today is a 7. You'll need to use your imagination, your creativity and also your wit. Take care, however. If this is the same person you've argued with before, an old trick might not work this time. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Today is a 4. Stop and think before you act. What you do now might be hard to undo later. An old carpenter's motto says, "Measure three times and cut once." There's a reason for that. Note: Horoscopes have no basis in scientific fact and should be read for entertainment purposes only. FARMERS We're Farmers Insurance Group, a dynamic and widely respected group of insurance companies enjoying over seventy years of success and strength to provide you with the potential for an exciting and rewarding career. Applications are now being accepted for the following position: Visit our Booth at the Career Fair Office Claims Representatives In this investigative role, you will determine liability on assigned claims, confirm coverage and establish damages in order to negotiate and settle claims. Qualified candidates must have a 4-year degree, strong communication skills, the desire to provide quality customer service and the ability to work flexible schedules including days, evenings, weekends and holidays Farmers offers an impressive benefits package including: - Minimum Salary of $31,000 * Additional Pay for Previous Insurance and/or - Minimum Salary of $31,000 - 100% Company Funded Profit Sharing • 100% Company Funded Pension Plans - Tuition Assistance (including 100% of books) * Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance * Paid Holidays, Vacation Days, Sick Days, and Personal Days Call Center Experience Extra Incentive Pay for Bilingual Applicants If you are unable to attend the job fair please send your resume to: you are unable to attend the job fair please send your Farmers Insurance Group Attn. Human Resources 17150 W. 118th Terrace, Building #6, Olathe, KS 66061 Fax: (913) 826-7099 Job Line: (866) 884-AJOB E-Mail: KC Job@farmersinsurance.com 6OE Remember Jayhawk Bookstore for: Largest selection of art supplies and presentation portfolios Custom graduation announcements Fine resume paper Shop early for the best selection Only available at the Jayhawk Bookstore "The graduation professionals at the top of the hill." 1420 Crescent Road • 843-3826 www.jayhawkbookstore.com