Northeast Community College students engage in table conversations with local business professionals during the Annual Spring Business Networking Luncheon.
Northeast Community College students had the opportunity to engage with local business professionals who may eventually become their employer. Approximately 80 students in the accounting, business, information technology, media arts, and veterinary technology programs met with 40 business professionals during the College’s Annual Spring Business Networking Luncheon in the Lifelong Learning Center.
“This event provides an incredible opportunity for our students to engage directly with accomplished business professionals in our community,” said Angie Shaffer, Northeast business professor. “It also allows them to begin developing meaningful mentoring relationships and build connections with local organizations that can last well beyond their time as students.”
Students who attended the luncheon were asked to circulate among the tables and engage with business professionals.
“The most valuable takeaway from the luncheon was being able to meet new people and learn from their own experience,” said freshman Kaedence Louthan, a business student from Stanton.
Kennedie Gartner, a business student, said it was a good opportunity to learn about the local business climate.
“I was able to introduce myself, share my goals, and ask questions about career paths and life experiences. The people I spoke with gave me meaningful advice about staying motivated, continuing to learn, and being confident in my career choices. Hearing their perspectives helped me feel more excited and reassured about pursuing esthetics as a profession,” Gartner said.
Shaffer and other business instructors at the College stress the importance of a proper appearance and respectfulness in such settings to their students.
“Students are instructed on proper networking techniques, professional dress attire, communication skills and presenting their business card.”
Jason Busch and Samantha Howell of American Family Insurance have attended for several years and said this about the event, “Samantha and I have been attending the Networking Luncheon for the last few years, and we are always impressed by the students that we meet. They are professional, communicate effectively, and have future goals. The students are an impressive reflection of Northeast Community College. We enjoy this activity and would encourage other local businesses to participate.”
Any business professional interested in taking part in next year’s Networking Luncheon may contact Shaffer at (402) 844-7297 or at angie@northeast.edu.
