Building a network, pivoting in your career and making the most of the college experience were all topics covered during this spring’s annual Business Week (April 5-8). In partnership with Citrix, the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business focused on “Mask up for your Future.”
Geena Matthews, a junior Management/Marketing major on the planning committee, said, “As a committee, we felt that the theme, ‘mask up for your future’ was important to not only address the elephant in the room with the pandemic but to help students prepare for their lives post-graduation. I feel that many Business students have interests in different facets of business, which makes it difficult to plan for a specific career path. Therefore, we felt that it was necessary to use Business Week to encourage students who may not be aware of their purpose yet.”
The week’s events included a Campbell & career jeopardy game, professional headshots, and a movie night. Citrix hosted mock interviews, a workshop about networking & personal brand, and our keynote speaker. “Through Business Week 2021, I learned more about how to market myself before and during interviews, and how to network with others. I now feel more confident in interviews and as I network on LinkedIn,” Matthews said.
“My favorite event was jeopardy! I think it was such a fun and interactive way to get students together and testing their knowledge – not to mention the prizes,” laughed Katherine Symanowicz. “Through the entire week, though, I think I grew the most in being comfortable with being uncomfortable. No one knows exactly where they are going in life and doors might open that you never anticipated. Instead of seeing it as fear, change it to be excitement and take that next step. Everything is a learning opportunity, so why not try it out?”
“The partnership with Citrix allowed students to ask important questions to a trustworthy source and discuss their goals with someone who has endured pivots in his career,” shared junior Finance/Accounting major Tyler Richards. “What stood out to me the most was the keynote speech given by Chris Deshazor, Talent Development & Delivery Manager for the Americas at Citrix. Regarding interviews, he emphasized highlighting the key parts of what makes you unique. I also believe the message about getting back up again if something doesn’t go your way is one of the most important things to keep in mind.”
Dr. Karen Mishra spoke to students about advice on using your time at college to prepare for your career, drawing from her recent book.
“My favorite event of the week was the Lunch and Learn with Dr. Karen Mishra. Dr. Mishra has made a tremendous impact on my college experience at Campbell University and continues to inspire me daily,” senior committee-member Maggie Warren said. “She was able to share her new book ‘College to Career’ with students and guide them through interview tips, networking and various resources available within the business school.”
Katherine Symanowicz encourages other students to join the planning committee in the future, “I recommend joining the Business Week Committee! Being a part of this close-knit planning crew, I was able to build better relationships with my peers and have new networking opportunities when it came to working with Citrix and coordinating with different individuals and groups on campus.”