NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University students and graduate assistants recently traveled to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to gain insights into the business industry in a metropolitan area. The trip, organized by Professor of Business Dr. Tekle Wanorie and graduate assistants Maggie McNeely and Sage Thelen, aimed to provide students with valuable professional development experiences.

Thelen highlighted the purpose of the trip, stating, “This trip is offered to allow students to find experiences and build knowledge on the job opportunities that are open to them as business majors.” She emphasized the importance of students learning about potential career paths and gaining hands-on learning opportunities in a big city setting.

One of the participants, Kayla Mitchell, a senior business management major, expressed her enthusiasm for the trip, sharing, “I chose to attend this trip in hopes of networking with people my age, as well as other business students that could help to expand my options for the future.”

During their time in Minneapolis, the group engaged in various activities, including attending a question-answer panel with members of the Young Professionals of Minneapolis and networking with industry professionals. Maggie McNeely reflected on the experience, stating, “After listening to the young professionals panel, I felt excited to enter into the job field. Hearing about their job search experiences and how their journeys led them to where they are today was truly inspiring.”

The students also visited the University Enterprise Laboratories in St. Paul, Minnesota, where they learned about the research processes and career opportunities in the business field. Haley Halsey, a junior marketing major, shared, “My major takeaways from the trip were learning about the different career paths available in a larger city like Minneapolis and connecting with young professionals in the field. It was eye-opening to see the opportunities and possibilities that exist in major cities.”

Overall, the trip provided valuable insights and networking opportunities for the Northwest business students, allowing them to explore potential career paths and gain inspiration from industry professionals.