Students attend 'Meet the Pros' conference

During the conference, hosted by the Omaha division of the American Advertising Federation, six undergrad students and two graduate students learned from professionals in the graphic design and public relations fields by viewing presentations and interacting virtually through breakout rooms and portfolio reviews.

The students who attended the conference include: Madison Kinney of Gering, Neb., Rylie Cole of Minden, Neb., Jenifer Boyer of Stapleton, Neb., Mia MacDonald of Cheyenne, Wyo., Olivia Bryant of Anselmo, Neb., Emily Hansen of Hemingford, Neb., and graduate students Abigail Swanson of Grand Island, Neb., and Kaci Waugh of Chadron, Neb.

Dr. Shaunda French-Collins, associate professor of communication, and Mary Donahue, professor of visual and performing arts, provided students with common areas to view the conference on campus. Students congregated in Old Admin or in the basement of Memorial Hall. By viewing the conference in groups, students could share and discuss ideas prompted by the presentations.

Communications student Olivia Bryant recommends students attend conferences where they can interact with professionals.

“Anyone interested in the field of graphic design, marketing, communications, or public relations, should attend,” Bryant said. “Conferences like (Meet the Pros) are great resume builders and can be a great way to get your name out to possible future employers.”

Prompted by the things she learned at the conference, Bryant plans to expand her online presence. She said she plans to create an online portfolio and website.

“Professionals at the conference stressed the importance of having those resources available to future employers,” she said.

Because of the topics of the conference, graphic design student Madison Kinney wants to broaden her design skills to become a better job candidate.  She also learned some tips for finding the perfect job.

“Always be yourself, especially when looking for jobs. You don't want to fake who you are and end up in a miserable job,” Kinney said.

While the virtual presentation limited interaction with professionals and students from other colleges, Bryant said it enabled her to better fit the conference into a busy midterm week.

Kinney agreed with the limitations of the virtual format, but still found the conference enjoyable.

“Even though it was online, it was very worthwhile,” Kinney said. “If you are considering an event and the only con is that it's online, I would still very much recommend going. I genuinely didn't think I would take anything away from this conference, yet I learned so much. Don't let our new ways of communicating discourage you from gaining knowledge.”

—Abigail Swanson, College Relations