JOB SECRETS REVEALED AT CAREER FAIR.

Byline: Krystn Shrieve Staff Writer

THOUSAND OAKS - High school students from throughout Ventura County caught a glimpse Saturday of what life might be like as a police officer, veterinarian, teacher or Hollywood executive.

The career fair, held at California Lutheran University, was part of Upward Bound, an academic program that assists low-income or first-generation students in preparing for college.

``I'm thinking about becoming an engineer,'' said 16-year-old America Flores, a junior at Channel Islands High School. ``It will probably be a tough field, but I'm excited about the challenge.''

Diva Ward, assistant director of Upward Bound, said the day's activities included workshops on how to prepare resumes or dress for success, as well as opportunities for students to talk with local representatives of nearly a dozen different professions.

``It's really wonderful if they can find out now about the different careers they might be interested in,'' Ward said. ``They will learn what skills the jobs take and how many years of college they should plan for.''

Mike Escoto, a graphic designer with Kinko's, said he hopes to pass on to students the value of hard work and perseverance.

``I was a C student in high school and college,'' Escoto said. ``But I knew what I wanted and worked hard for it. I want to let these kids know that they don't have to be at the top of their class to go to college or get a good career. It just takes determination.''

Patrick Connolly, a veterinarian with the Conejo Valley Veterinary Clinic, suggested that the students volunteer at an animal hospital to see what it's like. Esther Maluto, an accountant with the Warner Brothers studio, recommended that students apply for an internship.

``It's a way for them to get their foot in the door,'' Maluto said as students bombarded her with questions about the entertainment industry. ``A lot of people want to work for TV because it seems so glamorous, but it's hard work. An internship helps them see that.''

Santa Paula High School sophomore Delia Pena said she enjoyed the discussion about preparing resumes and dressing for interviews.

``I learned that I should wear basic colors - those are more popular among professionals,'' said Pena, 15. < ``If you wear basic colors. People will take you more seriously. Vibrant colors are out.''

Alex Pacheco, a senior at Camarillo High School, said Upward Bound has done a lot to prepare him for the college experience. Pacheco, 17, is enrolled in all college-prep classes, takes enrichment courses at California Lutheran University during the summer and has even had a chance to stay in the dormitories.

``It's helped me to know what to expect,'' Pacheco said as he wandered from table to table during the career fair. ``I plan to go to UCSB and I really think I'm ready for college.''

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Photo: (color -- ran in Conejo edition only) Mayra Villanueva, left, Angie Cortez, Marsha Anger and Nidia Rivera get the lowdown.

Joe Binoya/Special to the Daily News