My name is Joseph Opiekun and I am a junior business student at UMW. Only recently have I realized the benefit of attending the numerous College of Business events.
While I have been fortunate to gain knowledge from all of my professors, it is sometimes difficult to link that knowledge with the outside world. I meet with Professor Machande, the Acting Dean of the College of Business,to discuss business, weekend plans, or whatever is on our minds. When I needed to build a resume, he proceeded to show me the events on the weekly business e-newsletter including one titled: “Resume Workshop Building.”
I then saw the “First Annual Business Alumni Awards” event on the newsletter. Professor Machande explained that this event would showcase successful UMW alums. All student tickets would be subsidized and funded by the College, an alumni, or faculty sponsor, which made for a low ticket rate. Dressed in a suit and tie, I sauntered into the Chandler Ballroom to meet the alumni. The ballroom looked amazing. The atmosphere was relaxed and a band was playing smooth jazz that was perfect for mingling. I met retired UMW professors, local entrepreneurs, and successful businessmen and women who attended the college. It was networking heaven! I have countless business cards from the alumni and even met with one of the award winners after the event. He gave me advice on launching my career. The award ceremony opened my eyes to the opportunities that a UMW education will afford me.
The College of Business also held multiple events called “Lunch and Learns.” At these free events, we would get free pizza while we learned about topics such as budgeting and social media do’s and dont’s. Guest speakers came from GEICO and the Virginia Credit Union to teach us financial skills. These “Lunch and Learns” provided valuable information on how to deal with finances.
I have gained numerous contacts and knowledge that enhances what I have learned in the classroom from the College of Business sponsored events. I highly recommend all students take advantage of programs offered on campus. They provide practical skills and an opportunity to build a professional network.
Joseph Opiekun, UMW College of Business Junior
Editor’s Note: We are always interested in learning about the many ways students connect to their campus. We reached out to the College of Business to gain a student perspective.