UQ students hone their networking skills

A group of University of Queensland students moved one step closer to landing their dream jobs at a professional networking event held in Brisbane recently.

More than one hundred eager journalism, law, international relations and political science students attended the Professional Drinks Evening at the London Club in Newstead earlier this month, rubbing shoulders with diplomats, journalists and senior public sector staff.

More than twenty of Australia’s leading professionals attended the event, which was co-hosted by United Nations Student Association (UNSA) and the Journalism and Communication Students group (JACS).

Honorary Consul for Brazil, and former Lord Mayor of Brisbane Ms Sallyanne Atkinson AO, was the keynote speaker, with guests including government chiefs of staff, CEOs and public relations experts.

UNSA President James White said the evening provided the perfect networking opportunity for UQ students from a range of disciplines.

“The Professional Drinks evening is a unique event because our guests are individuals who are at the peak of their professions,” Mr White said.

“The environment is really relaxed and students feel like they can have a real discussion with the guests and get hints about how to make it in their career.”

The format certainly gets results, with several participants from last year’s event landing coveted internships in their fields.

2011 marked the second year that Geoffrey Ewing, President of the Australian Institute of International Affairs (Queensland Branch) and Principal at Negotiation Solutions has attended.

Mr Ewing said he was inspired to see so many enthusiastic students, particularly those who were keen to have a career with international impact.

Media: Kim Wilkinson (0403 839 778, kimsulawilkinson@gmail.com)