Business professionals from organizations such as Goodyear Tire and Rubber, Pro Football Hall of Fame, The J.M. Smucker Company and the Cleveland Cavaliers provided career advice and forged relationships with Walsh students during the second annual Speed Networking Event on Feb. 19. Hosted by the Walsh University Career Readiness and Development Center, the Networking program was open for students of all majors to practice their elevator pitch, explore internships and job openings, while building a professional network with local alumni and potential mentors.
“Working with students to create professional development opportunities is an essential way to ensure our programs are successful,” said Beth Johnson, Career Readiness and Development Program Manager. “The students know what the needs are, and we’re here to help fill those gaps. We continue to build programs that will support all students and help them land a job upon graduation.”
This year, close to 20 professionals, including eight Walsh alumni participated in the event, including business professionals, nonprofit administrators and entrepreneurs. More than 20 students from 15 different majors were in attendance. Students had the opportunity to meet with each representative as they honed their professional networking skills.
“The Speed Networking program moves at an aggressive and accelerated direction. It was impressive to see younger students, freshman and sophomores, getting engaged early on,” said Eric Franklin, Corporate Communications ’16 and Project Engineer, Robins & Morton. “The students were engaged, and I am happy to see that I’ve already received four or five follow-up emails.”
The Career Center connects students and recent alumni with future employers, explores possible career paths with them, guides them in the articulation of their skills and experiences, and equips them with professional competencies.
