Networking events provide a unique opportunity for budding professionals to connect with seasoned experts, share knowledge, and explore potential career paths. Last night (September 14, 2023), four enthusiastic business students from Andrews University had the privilege of attending the SWMI Regional Business After Hours event hosted by Hungerford Nichols CPAs and Advisors in St. Joseph, Michigan. This experience left a lasting impact on them, emphasizing the significance of networking and learning from seasoned professionals in our local business community.
“It was great to meet the business professionals in our local community and to network with them,” remarked Parker Muhlenbeck, a sophomore Accounting major, capturing the essence of their memorable evening. This sentiment resonated with each of the attendees, reinforcing the invaluable lessons they gained from the event.
One of the standout quotes from the students perfectly encapsulates the essence of this networking event: “Learning from older businesspeople is like learning great lessons without the pain of the experience,” said Kato Golooba-Mutebi, a sophomore Finance major. This profound statement highlights the incredible value of connecting with experienced professionals who have navigated the complex and ever-evolving world of business.
During the Business After Hours event, our students had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with established professionals. They learned about the challenges these experts faced throughout their careers and the strategies they employed to overcome obstacles. From financial planning to marketing strategies, the students were exposed to a wealth of knowledge that textbooks alone could never provide.
One of the primary goals of any networking event is to expand one’s professional horizons. The business students not only gained valuable insights but also forged meaningful connections with professionals in various fields. These connections have the potential to open doors to internships, mentorships, and even job opportunities in the future.
Moreover, the event exposed our students to the diversity of industries thriving in our local community. Whether it was technology, finance, healthcare, or entrepreneurship, they discovered that St. Joseph, Michigan, boasts a vibrant and dynamic business landscape. This firsthand exposure can be a catalyst for their future career choices and aspirations.
Networking events also serve as a confidence booster for young professionals. Our students learned to articulate their goals and aspirations, honed their communication skills, and developed the ability to make a lasting impression. These soft skills are invaluable in today’s competitive job market, and the Business After Hours event provided the perfect platform for our students to practice and refine them.
It is this wisdom, shared through networking, that will guide our students as they embark on their own journeys in the world of business. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hungerford Nichols CPAs and Advisors and the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce for providing this invaluable opportunity, and we look forward to participating again in the near future.
