By Kathryn Kelman/editor-in-chief
NE Campus career services will host an alumni Lunch and Learn where students can meet alumni and learn about their experiences after graduating from TCC 12:30-1:30 p.m. Sept. 27 in Center Corner (NSTU 1615A).
“Three alumni will be here speaking about their experience at TCC and what they are doing now,” career and employee services coordinator Stephanie Rettig said. “We will have a published author, a hospital nurse and a business administrator.”
The alumni foundation will also be at the luncheon to discuss their efforts, and career services will provide a hot catered meal from Olivio’s Italian restaurant, Rettig said.
“The goal of the event is twofold,” she said. “One, we want students to be able to connect the efforts they are putting into their schoolwork now with their future careers and aspirations.”
Science classes can be daunting for students whose career goal is to become a television broadcaster. Students often become discouraged in their studies and cannot recognize the value of their coursework, but hearing from alumni can help students “see the light at the end of the college tunnel,” Rettig said.
The second thing Rettig hopes to accomplish is an increase in student and alumni pride and engagement, she said.
“I think there is often a negative stigma about attending a community college, but it is 2017 and students who attend community colleges are making financially and academically responsible decisions,” Rettig said. “There are many reasons to be proud of being a Trailblazer, from the superior education they receive to the numerous opportunities made available.”
Rettig hopes to encourage that pride through this particular event, she said.
“TCC can be a valuable part of helping students accomplish their career goals,” Rettig said.
Students, staff, faculty and alumni are invited to attend the event. They need to register at http://tccdne.volunteerhub.com so career services can make sure plenty of food is available at the luncheon.
“There will also be drawings for several door prizes and free T-shirts for the first 30 people,” Rettig said.