The September 30 Information Technology Infrastructure Symposium, themed "Community Building," provided a platform for students, alumni, faculty, and industry leaders to connect, share insights, and inspire one another. The event kicked off with welcoming remarks from Faculty Director Colin Miller and other leaders from the College of Continuing and Professional Studies. These were followed by a captivating presentation by ITI student Deanna Liapis about the newly launched AWS Cloud Computing Club.
The symposium's highlight was a panel discussion featuring advisory board members and faculty, who offered invaluable advice and career guidance. They urged students to let their curiosity lead them towards exciting discoveries and rewarding opportunities, in whichever field they are most drawn to—be it finance, the environment, government, or retail. Here’s the advice they shared.
Advisors & Faculty Share Advice
What are the top three things ITI students should develop?
- A professional and personal network: Building relationships with instructors, classmates, and industry professionals is invaluable. Seek out mentors, join clubs and study groups, and participate in networking events.
- Hands-on experience: Internships provide a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects. Be proactive in seeking out internships and actively contribute to your team's success.
- Troubleshooting skills: The ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues is a fundamental skill in IT. Practice troubleshooting regularly, break things down, and learn from your mistakes.
What's the best way for students to network while in school?
- Get involved: Join clubs, study groups, and campus organizations to connect with like-minded individuals.
- Reach out to professionals: Seek out informational interviews with professionals in your desired field. Prepare thoughtful questions, be mindful of their time, and always follow up with a thank-you note.
- Learn from the experts: Read books like "The 20-Minute Networking Meeting" to gain valuable insights into networking strategies and effective communication.
How can internships boost career prospects?
- Gain practical experience: Internships offer a hands-on opportunity to apply your skills and learn from experienced professionals.
- Showcase your value: Be prepared to demonstrate your unique abilities and contributions to the team.
- Build your resume: Document your accomplishments and quantify your impact to strengthen your job applications.
How can you make data work for you?
- Embrace curiosity: Approach data analysis with a sense of wonder and a desire to uncover insights.
- Communicate effectively: Tailor your explanations to your audience's level of understanding, making complex concepts accessible and engaging.
- Leverage data insights: Recognize the value of data-driven decision-making and use it to inform your work.
What career resources would be most helpful for IT students?
- Seek guidance: Build relationships with academic advisors and faculty who can offer mentorship and support.
- Utilize career services: Take advantage of the resources provided by the U’s career services department, including resume reviews, interview coaching, and job search workshops.
- Create a career portfolio: Showcase your skills, accomplishments, and projects through a well-crafted portfolio.
More advice for success, both at work and in life
- Communicate effectively: Develop your verbal and written communication skills to build strong relationships and convey your ideas clearly.
- Cultivate people skills: Practice active listening, negotiation, and problem-solving to navigate interpersonal challenges effectively.
- Practice empathy: Understand the perspectives of others and build trust through empathy and compassion.
- Promote others: Help your colleagues succeed and contribute to a positive team environment.
- Network strategically: Join professional associations, attend industry events, and build relationships with key individuals.
- Show appreciation: Express gratitude through handwritten thank-you notes and acknowledgements.
- Present yourself professionally: Dress appropriately, maintain good hygiene, and exude confidence.
