Career Launch Student Symposium

• You don’t need to bring much—just yourself, a positive attitude, and a willingness to engage! However, we recommend bringing:
  •  A notebook and pen for taking notes.
  • Copies of your resume if you’d like to share them with employers.

This event is exclusively for students in the Pamplin College of Business. All Pamplin students, regardless of class year or major, are encouraged to attend! This event is designed for any student looking to get a jumpstart in their career journey, particularly incoming students or those getting started in the job search process!

Yes! We recommend business casual attire. This means no jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers—opt for slacks, blouses, button-down shirts, and dress shoes instead.

Yes! There is no cost to attend the symposium, and all sessions, activities, and networking opportunities are free for Pamplin students.

We highly encourage you to stay for the full event to get the most out of this opportunity! The symposium is designed to provide many valuable experiences, from resume reviews and professional development sessions to industry exploration and networking with top employers. Each part of the event builds on the next, helping you develop key skills and make meaningful connections. Plus, attending the full event shows your commitment to professional growth, something employers love to see!

You can register for the symposium [coming soon]. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up in advance!

If you can no longer attend, please notify us as soon as possible so we can adjust our planning and open your spot to another student. You can do this by emailing us at pcobcareers@vt.edu

Yes! While not required, bringing printed copies of your resume is a great idea, especially if you plan to participate in resume review sessions or the networking dinner.

To make the most of the networking dinner:

• Come prepared – Research attending employers and think of questions you'd like to ask.
• Be engaged – Introduce yourself to company representatives, ask about their career paths, and share your interests.
• Be open and talkative – Don’t be afraid to start the conversation! A simple “Hi, my name is…” can go a long way. Most professionals appreciate students who take the initiative.
• Follow up – If you connect with someone, consider sending a LinkedIn request or a follow-up email after the event.
• Dress professionally – First impressions matter, so dress appropriately for the setting.
• Practice good table etiquette – Be mindful of your manners, listen actively, and avoid interrupting.
• Have a goal in mind – Whether it's learning about a specific industry or making a certain number of connections, having a focus can help guide your conversations.
• Take notes – Jot down key takeaways after the event to help personalize your follow-ups.

Networking can feel intimidating, but remember—professionals are there because they want to connect with you! Be confident, ask thoughtful questions, and enjoy the conversation.

Yes! In addition to the networking dinner, many employers will be available during industry exploration sessions and other parts of the event. This is a great chance to have meaningful conversations and ask specific career-related questions.