“This is exactly what I want to do. Can I get your contact info to talk more?”

That’s what one Lundquist student said after connecting with an alum at Career Insights with Lundquist Alumni, a recent networking event hosted by Mohr Career Services.

For many students, thinking about what comes after graduation is both exciting and uncertain. This event brought together students and Duck alumni who have successfully navigated the transition from college to career, giving students the opportunity to get firsthand advice from professionals who were once in their shoes.

Career Advice, Straight from the Source

During the event, students joined small-group, guided conversations with Lundquist alumni to ask questions, explore industries, and learn from professionals with experience across different fields.

Participating alumni brought experience across banking, consulting, entrepreneurship, and other fields, with graduates representing the college’s MBA and other degree programs. Thank you to the Lundquist alumni board members who shared their time, experience, and insights with students:

• Chloe Chapman – Senior Vice President, Business Client Advisor, Summit Bank
• Steven Green – Partner, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
• Maxwell Hawes – Owner and CEO, Hawes Group
• Elizabeth Remley – Partner, Thorn Run Partners
• Blake Thompson – Chief Innovation Officer, Springfield Creamery
• Clark Wright – Associate Vice President, Research Analyst, DA Davidson

Conversations covered everything from using AI in technology businesses and building a career in consulting to the skills and behaviors found in successful startups. Students also discussed how professional relationships can influence career trajectories and how to recognize opportunities along the way.

Unlike reading about an industry or researching a job online, these conversations gave students the chance to hear directly from professionals, ask questions about their experiences, and make genuine industry connections that are vital to job search success and could continue beyond the event.

For one student, that meant discovering a career path they wanted to explore further and asking to stay in touch with an alum. This is why making time for career events matters. There really is no substitute for learning from those who have already walked the path. You might walk into an event with questions about your future and leave with new insights, practical advice, or a professional connection who can help you navigate your next steps.

Your Next Career Connection Starts Here

You don’t have to wait for the next big career event to start building your network.

Through Lundquist Connect, the college’s student-to-alumni networking platform, you can reach out to alumni who can share advice, answer questions, and help you learn more about different industries and career paths. You can also book an appointment with a career advisor online or stop by Lillis 155 to learn about upcoming career events each term.

Remember, whether you’re actively searching for an internship, exploring career options, or simply curious about a particular industry, one conversation is a great place to start.