Ready, Set, Connect: Speed Networking Event Joins Middlesex College Students with Industry Professionals

Forging connections and simulating professional one-on-one encounters was the focus of Middlesex College’s Speed Networking and Simulation event held on March 19. The event welcomed over 40 students and was sponsored by the First-Generation Council, the Business Club, and Alpha Alpha Alpha Honors Society.

Organizers aimed to get Middlesex College students in a room with area business professionals from a spectrum of industries for brief one-on-one meetings, as well as free time to mingle. Flyers posted on tables offered icebreaker questions and students were given tips on what to say to the business leaders and advice on how to present themselves.

“Networking, interviewing, and making connections are skills we know our students need as they enter the job market,” said Middlesex College President Mark McCormick. “An event like this gives them real-world practice and an opportunity for them to refine their ability to answer questions from professionals, showcase their talents, and make meaningful contacts across multiple industries.”

Students were broken into three groups, and while one group went to the tables to meet with professionals, students in the other two groups were encouraged to network and meet with one another. Students had just a couple of minutes with each professional before moving on to the next spot.

“I hoped to make some connections in order to build up my confidence and get more comfortable in this environment for my future, because I really need it,” said Liann Lopez, who is studying accounting.

Twelve different industries had representatives on hand, including financial, food, e-commerce retail, higher education, telecommunications, technology, customer service, and information technology services and consulting, among others.

Middlesex College alumni Katie Lanigan ’16, community director in the Office of Residence Life at Montclair State University, and Alexander Salazar ’20, business support liaison for the Perth Amboy Business Improvement Corporation, were among the professional guests.

The professionals were advised to treat the students like a candidate they were networking with while providing a bit more support for less-experienced participants.  Additionally, professional volunteers prompted the students with questions asking about their academic and career goals and interests.

“It is a little intimidating at first, especially because you can’t get too deep into conversations with everyone,” said Justin Griguoli, in his first semester studying business. “But I met with a career coach, and I got his card. I also met with two people from Rutgers and they were interesting. They said they’d like to help me out on LinkedIn.”