Nov. 8—Northwestern hosts the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Meet the Pros event, a networking session designed to connect aspiring students with leaders in the communications field.

Thursday, November 11, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Nazareth Hall, Blue Room

Registration is available online.

Kaitlyn Cox, president of the IABC Northwestern chapter, provides a glimpse of the benefits of student involvement with IABC.

Northwestern: How did the NWC chapter get started?
Kaitlyn: The NWC chapter was started about four years ago by a group of students that were interested in becoming members of IABC.

Northwestern: When did you start getting involved with IABC? What are your primary responsibilities now?
Kaitlyn: I actually stepped into my current role as president of the chapter this fall (2010). Previously, I attended many events hosted by IABC. My primary responsibility is to lead the student board in planning and executing our annual fall event, Meet the Pros. We've also heavily recruited for membership this year and are continually looking for ways to provide opportunities for students to connect with professionals in the Twin Cities.

Northwestern: What types of activities do you attend in association with IABC? What kinds of activities do you put on at NWC?
Kaitlyn: IABC hosts networking events, webinars and professional development seminars each month. I have attended some of those events. Our main event at NWC is hosting Meet the Pros. Students from campuses across the area attend that event and it has been a successful event each year. We hold membership information meetings and are developing quarterly meetings to help students prepare for life after graduation by utilizing the tools and opportunities offered by IABC.

Northwestern: What are some of the benefits you’ve seen as a member of IABC?
Kaitlyn: IABC's student membership is significantly discounted which is the primary benefit in my opinion. This allows students to be involved in a variety of experiences that are offered for professionals. I've really enjoyed the experience that being on the board has given me, as well as the opportunity to have professionals continue to develop and advise me in my search for a job.

Northwestern: Have you had any success in making connections with the professional world?
Kaitlyn: My networking experiences have been successful in that I've made great connections with professionals. Even when they aren't hiring, they are often willing to give you advice or pass on a job that they've heard about.

Northwestern: What would you like to do after college?
Kaitlyn: I am graduating in December and am looking to practice the public relations skills that I have gained in agency work, in a nonprofit or really, wherever the Lord leads. I love my field and can't wait to find a job!