The Bermuda College and the Bank of N.T. Butterfield have teamed up to "break new ground'' with a new on-campus summer employment recruitment scheme.

During the week Bank of Butterfield representatives Nicole Desilva and Robin Minors-Robinson have been conducting interviews in the College's Student Hall Building with prospective summer students.

As the bank's Education Development Officer, Ms Desilva said she looked forward to the new initiative, but was surprised to learn that no local businesses have actively recruited at the College before.

"Education is important,'' said Ms Desilva, "but in addition students need to get meaningful experience.

"We're trying to assist students to get that experience.

"We want to give students opportunities while in school to prepare for their profession.'' Coordinator of the Student Union and Student Employment Activities, Leonard Santucci expressed enthusiasm about the number of student responses and the potential for further growth.

"We are inviting employers to come to the campus to meet with our students and to provide application forms,'' he said.

"We're hoping that other employers see, come and follow.

"We have young, bright and gifted students, capable of tremendous contributions.'' Originally scheduled for three days, the on-campus recruitment drive has been extended to accommodate the unexpectedly high response.

Two first-year students pursuing Business Administration, Ms Christine Bradshaw and Ms Michaela Bradshaw, both said they enjoyed their interviews.

"It wasn't what we expected,''said Christine.

"I thought we'd be drilled, but they took the tension right off.'' Michaela readily agreed: "I usually get nervous in interviews but they made me feel comfortable.'' As well as "tightening its link'' with the Bermuda College, Ms Desilva said the bank will also be conducting on-campus recruitment drives for Bermudians at universities overseas.

"Our ultimate goal is to take a proactive role in recruiting Bermudian students,'' she stated.

Last October, bank representatives visited Halifax, Nova Scotia and plans are underway for visits to various North American cities.