On Thursday, September 13, the Risk & Insurance Department hosted the Fall 2018 Co-Curricular Learning Board (CCLB) event, “How to Get Your Dream Job & Excel in Your Career.” We had the opportunity to listen to representatives from American Family, CUNA Mutual, Humana, Milliman, Swiss Re, and Travelers in this panel-style event. The topic for the first session was advice for securing your dream job, and the second session focused on strategies for exceeding expectations once hired. Afterwards, there was a lively networking reception.
The 150+ students in attendance were split into four rooms. To start the first session, the panelists introduced themselves and began answering a few pre-submitted questions on interview etiquette. I learned a few pieces of advice that I will certainly remember during my upcoming interviews, such as taking notes during an interview is a great way to show the employer that I am serious about the job. The panelists advised us to ask thoughtful questions based on the information that the employer mentioned earlier in the interview. The panelists had varied opinions about certain topics, which led to a more thought-provoking discussion.
Once we were equipped with their advice for obtaining our dream jobs, the panel discussed strategies to stand out while on the job. We started with a question about how to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The discussion shifted toward the importance of keeping an open mind throughout the application process. For me, this discussion was the most eye-opening. The company representatives recounted their experiences of getting multiple rejections from their dream companies. They were unanimous in their advice: do not take rejections personally. This was much-needed guidance for many students, including me, to hear as we enter recruiting season.
The evening concluded with a networking reception. In addition to the opportunity to speak with the company reps individually, the reception allowed me the chance to hear what my peers learned during their different panel discussions. Overall, I thought the event was successful in strengthening the connection between students and our CCLB companies.
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