Written By: Samantha Burgess
Staff Writer
Bryan will be holding a Professional Networking Event on February 16 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The free event, held in the Rhea County Room, allows students to make connections with professionals. This will give students an opportunity for job shadowing, internships, or a working position in their field.
The event will have motivational speaker and educator Zack Ballinger. He is speaking on properly communicating and networking with professionals, as well as job interviews and career development.
Students will also participate in experiential activities and then talk with professionals. The dress is business casual.
You can register for the Professional Networking Event by emailing Whitney Smith or in person at the Career Center (Mercer 119 or 121). Registration ends February 13.
Career Services leader Whitney Smith said, “This event is particularly beneficial to students because it empowers them to establish their own professional connections.”
Director Smith feels that networking is crucial because it allows students to form lasting professional connections and learn to navigate the hidden job market. Even if the student’s preferred employer isn’t present, there’s often another professional there who can make connections for them.
Junior Beatriz “Bea” Ibarra Dominguez attended last year’s event where she was able to make connections with professionals and learn about their work.
“My advice to other students is that they should ask a lot of questions because companies like when the student seems interested,” Dominguez said. “Be yourself and read about the companies attending the event so you have a better idea of what to ask.”
A recent attendee, Daniel Schneider learned the basics of how to greet, where to put the name tag and focusing on one’s strengths and weakness.”“If you’re looking for an internship or job opportunity I say go for it and attend the event,” advised Schneider. “The professionals that attend always love working with Bryan students.”
Samantha Burgess is a Freshman majoring in Communication with an emphasis in Digital Media.
Samantha is actively involved in PCI. She writes Triangle articles on a variety of topics including campus life andcurrent events. When she’s not doing homework, Samantha can often be found curled up with a good book, writing, listening to music, or watching TV.
