BBA Class of 2027
Saturday, April 5, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the inaugural Wisconsin SHRM Student Summit, an event that provided an immersive experience into the world of HR. As a student pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management, this summit offered invaluable insights into the HR field and helped me make connections with professionals and peers who share similar passions.
The day kicked off with interactive HR games, which were not only a fun way to start the event, but also a great educational experience. These games tested our knowledge of key HR topics such as recruitment, workplace culture, labor laws, and employee relations. We were challenged to answer questions on important HR concepts, all while adding an element of friendly competition by competing for fun SHRM swag! It was a great way to learn new topics and assess where I stand in understanding these critical HR subjects. The energy in the room was contagious, and it was a fantastic way to get everyone engaged and excited for the rest of the day.
Next, I had the opportunity to attend a session on networking, led by two MBA candidates from UW, titled “Networking That Gets You Hired: Real Skills for Real Jobs.” This session proved to be incredibly valuable as I continue to grow my professional network. Through hands-on role-play exercises and insightful discussions, I gained practical strategies for making meaningful connections, navigating conversations with confidence, and leaving a lasting impression. One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of leveraging LinkedIn to expand your network, scheduling calls with professionals, and following up appropriately. These skills are invaluable for anyone, especially as a student, looking to network with HR professionals at conferences, career fairs, or even online.
One of the highlights of the day was the HR Career Paths Panel Discussion. This session featured HR professionals from different backgrounds, sharing their experiences and insights into the evolving landscape of human resources. I learned about the diverse career paths available within HR, ranging from strategic HR roles to operational positions. The panel also provided valuable advice on how to navigate the challenges HR professionals face and how to stay ahead in an ever-changing field. It was inspiring to hear firsthand how these professionals have shaped their careers and the impact they’ve had on their organizations.
One of the breakout sessions I attended was “Communicate, Collaborate and Expand Your Network through SHRM’s Mentorship Programs.” This session really resonated with me, especially as a student looking to build my professional network. The discussion emphasized the importance of mentorship in the HR field and how SHRM’s mentorship programs provide a platform for students and emerging professionals to connect with experienced HR leaders.
We explored various mentorship options, from one-time virtual career mentoring events to longer, more structured coaching programs. The session reinforced that having a strong network and mentorship in place can help guide your career, offering invaluable insights and advice as you navigate the early stages of your professional journey.
I walked away from this session with a clearer understanding of how to take advantage of these mentorship opportunities and how important it is to actively seek guidance from those with more experience. I’m excited to dive deeper into SHRM’s mentorship programs and begin building meaningful connections with HR professionals who can help shape my career trajectory.
The summit ended with closing remarks and a final networking session, where I had the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees and industry professionals. This was a great chance to reflect on what I had learned throughout the day and make connections that will help me in the future.
Overall, attending the WI SHRM Student Summit was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of the HR field and provided me with practical tools and insights to advance my career. The sessions were informative, the speakers were inspiring, and the networking opportunities were invaluable. As a student still exploring my future in HR, I left the summit feeling more confident in my career path and excited about the endless possibilities within human resources.
I’m looking forward to staying connected with the people I met and applying what I’ve learned to my studies and future career in HR. This Summit was a great step in my journey to becoming a well-rounded HR professional.