MIR students had the opportunity to hear real‑world perspectives from recent alumni during an engaging panel discussion held at the end of February. The event brought together former students who have since launched careers in a variety of professional fields, all eager to share what they’ve learned since completing the program.
Throughout the conversation, alumni spoke candidly about navigating the transition from graduate studies to the workplace. They offered practical advice on building professional networks, identifying strengths, and approaching early career decisions with confidence and curiosity. Students asked insightful questions about career pathways, skill development, and how to position themselves for opportunities after graduation.
A common theme among the panelists was the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. Several shared stories about how their careers took unexpected turns, and how the foundational skills gained during their studies, such as communication, organization, and problem‑solving, helped them adapt and succeed.
The event wrapped up with informal networking, giving students the chance to connect one‑on‑one with the alumni and gather personalized advice. Many attendees expressed appreciation for the honest advice and said the discussion helped them feel more confident about the road ahead.
A big thank you to our alumni speakers; Emilio Frometa (MIR'18), Tristan DiFranscesco (MIR'15), Kelly Stevenson (MIR'16), and Ben Gooch (MIR'09)!
