An annual event through the Integrated Marketing Communications program, IMC Connect, is making its annual return on March 25 as an opportunity for students to interact with professionals in their future career fields.
The event, hosted by the School of Journalism and New Media, seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry practice, providing insights into the evolving fields of communications, marketing and public relations.
“IMC Connect is more than just a conference: It’s a career catalyst. It’s an opportunity to absorb wisdom from leading figures in the field, get hands-on with the latest industry tools and network with potential mentors and employers,” Tatum Chenen, a senior integrated marketing communications major, said. “It’s also an amazing chance for students to step out of their comfort zone and practice talking to career professionals.”
This year’s lineup includes panel discussions, workshops and talks given by industry experts like Tiffanie L. Hedin, corporate communications director for Toyota of Mississippi, Marti Powers, vice president of communications for Boeing Defense, Space & Security and Chris Chiames, chief communications officer for Carnival Cruise Line.
“Particularly for students, the conference serves as an invaluable platform to practice and get comfortable with speaking to industry professionals. It encourages the development of our own professional voice — a crucial skill in a field where communication is key,” Chenen said. “By engaging in discussions, asking questions and presenting ideas in a professional setting, we’re not just learning, we’re also building the confidence to express ourselves clearly and effectively in our future careers.”
Junior IMC major Gretchen Taylor sees IMC Connect as a networking event that can answer questions students may have about their future careers.
“I think the chance to connect with professionals who put into practice what we study is an extremely helpful resource for students. It gives us the chance to ask successful people the questions that could usually only be answered by real world experience in the field,” Taylor said.
Professionals from companies that have dealt with public relations crises will instruct students on how to effectively handle a negative situation.
“I’m most excited for the Deepwater Horizon (oil spill) case study. I think it will be very interesting to see how a PR team deals with a crisis that is on an international scale,” Taylor said. “I’m also very excited for the chance to connect with IMC professionals that can give me career advice and tips for the future. I think that all of these sessions will be very helpful in preparing me for life after graduation.”
IMC Connect will offer a panel in which student members of fraternities and sororities can learn how to take advantage of their network.
“I’m most looking forward to the Greek Connect panel on Monday evening. It promises to offer unique insights into how Greek life and organizations can leverage IMC strategies effectively,” senior IMC major Olivia Young said.
Young believes that IMC Connect helps students learn practical applications of IMC principles and further prepares them for the realities of the industry.
“It highlights the importance of staying abreast of current trends and technologies, such as AI and digital communications, which are essential for future professionals,” Young said. “Additionally, it fosters a sense of community and collaboration among students, educators and professionals, enhancing our learning experience and career prospects.”
