Southern Miss School of Leadership Welcomed Students to “Experience Business Casually” for Career Advice, Networking Opportunities
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 03:25pm
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) School of Leadership along with local business professionals gathered at the third annual “Experience Business Casually” event held Tuesday on the Gulf Park campus.
Students networked with leaders from the business community and received advice and tips on topics to help get them workforce ready including interview strategies, the 60-second elevator pitch, the art of small talk and more. Students from area community colleges and high schools also attended.
Dr. Jacob Breland, director of the School of Leadership, was excited to collaborate with local schools and offer an event that can help prepare students to be ready for business.
“The dual-enrolled students we invited are the best and brightest of our local high schools. They are already on their way to a college degree, and we want to show them that the School of Leadership and the College of Business and Economic Development are here to help them succeed,” said Breland. “For many students, it’s the first time they have been on our campus. They enjoyed walking the campus, looking around and even checking out our library. We’re happy they are excited about the possibility of attending USM.”
Amy Yeend, assistant dean of Professional Development and Career Success, who has coordinated the program on the Hattiesburg campus for several years, expressed the value of the event.
“Seeing the active engagement between our industry professionals and students is always exciting. In this casual environment, the students are more comfortable asking questions and often spend more time than anticipated at the event because they receive such great information,” said Yeend. “In addition, our industry volunteers are always eager to participate and enjoy the coaching conversations with students. This is a unique opportunity for leaders to mentor students and share career advice.”
Learn more about the School of Leadership and how it prepares students to be career ready.