Do you wish someone had told you how to network? Looking to connect with future graduates for your business? Now you can help current Missouri State students learn these skills and meet upcoming alumni by volunteering at a special speed networking event on campus on April 19 from 4:30-7 p.m.

This fun event is divided into two parts: speed rounds and open networking. There’s a 30 minute registration time from 4:30-5 p.m with mingling and hors d’oeuvres.

• In the first segment students pair off with alumni and practice one-on-one introductions. After five minutes alumni are paired with new students.
• In the second segment alumni and students have the chance to mingle casually. This gives all participants the chance to network with both working professionals and students.

Sign up to volunteer

Volunteering at this event has paid off for alumnus Ryan Cosby, ’11, whose company hired people he met at the event.

“My bank is part of a 13-bank holding company and we have found two quality hires in the process of this,” Cosby said. “If I can provide a good pipeline to our institution while also adding value to the university services, it is a win win win.  A win for my alma mater, a win for my company and a win for Springfield.”

Alumnus Zach Swartz, ’08,  recommends alumni help out even if students are in a different field.

“The students who attend are motivated and are looking for a connection.  As alumni, we often have connections across professions,” Swartz said. “We have the ability to point the undergraduates in the right direction, even if that isn’t in our firm or profession.”

In fact, alumnus Travis Liles, ’11 and ’12, says modeling professional behavior is an easy way to help students.

“It’s about creating a potential relationship with a student who is learning about networking and how to engage in the professional world. Learn about that student and don’t focus so much on yourself – that way the student learns that is the proper way to network,” Liles said.

This short event is an easy and fun way to give back to Missouri State, Swartz said.

“Just show up.  Our students are great and just want to find connections.  I have never regretted going to these events,” he said.

Alumni volunteer information

Check-in – 4:30 p.m.; event starts at 5:00 p.m. and lasts until about 7 p.m.

Location – PSU Ballroom

Attire – Business casual

For more information contact Assistant Director Alumni Activities and Alumni Relations Candice Wolf.