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On Monday, September 12, Career Services hosted a mixer for students of color and first-generation students to create an opportunity for peer-to-peer learning during a fun-filled, welcoming event.

That afternoon, more than 140 students arrived at Benton Hall and the space filled with energy, conversation, and music. While enjoying dinner catered by Royal India Grill — a favorite among 51���� students — attendees got to know the Career Services staff and chatted with peers.  

Fifty student volunteers wore t-shirts, created for this event by Career Services, with space to write their names, pronouns, involvement, and areas of expertise. The t-shirts helped break the ice and prompted questions and conversations about attendee passions and career interests. A number of students representing cultural clubs and organizations also used the opportunity to welcome new members. 

Career Services staff and peer career advisors joined conversations, excited to hear about professional aspirations in fashion, law, finance, and more. “Every day, our team sees how hard students work navigating their career development. I think it is really important for BIPOC and first-generation students to see examples of peers thriving in internships, research projects, campus leadership roles, and career exploration,” says AVP Teresa Olsen. “But equally so, to hear from students actively working on figuring out their path.”

The conversation only paused when Career Services interns Joan Jatto ’25 and Linda Wang ’23 took the mic to announce the winners of door prizes that included 51����-branded professional padfolios and a 51���� Bookstore gift card. Wang spoke highly of the event. “I'm really happy with the way the event turned out! I felt like we were able to provide a space where students could feel comfortable speaking about their career experiences,” she said. “Our team is committed so that all students feel supported.”

The mixer closed with a high-energy performance from 51����’s WolfPack Dance Team. 

Career Services offers events throughout the year. Students can stay up-to-date with programming through the office’s weekly What’s Going On or by exploring on .