Career Development Events

Want to stand out after college? At MCB, we believe success comes from building connections and practicing key skills early. That’s why all students must attend a Career Development Event each year—boost your network, confidence, and future in one opportunity!

Two female students smiling, dressed in professional attire, standing against a white background.
Professional Experience & Career Development

Networking with employers isn’t just a skill—it’s a powerful tool that you can practice, develop, and use to your advantage. These events give you the perfect opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in class and showcase your talents to potential employers. The more you participate, the stronger your candidacy will be when it’s time to graduate.

Important Details:

  • Attendance is required for most MCB students.
  • You must sign in at each event to receive credit.
  • After all events have passed (usually in March), a written alternative assignment is available if you’re unable to attend.

Prepare yourself to graduate with confidence, knowing you’re ready to succeed in your professional career!

Events in the Career Development Series — Don't Miss These!

These events offer students valuable opportunities to explore careers, develop professional skills, connect with alumni and industry leaders, and prepare for future success through workshops, networking, and competitive events.

Career Values and Exploration

First-year students must attend the Career Values & Exploration Workshop, hosted by UNC’s Center for Career Readiness. This interactive session helps you identify your core values, explore career options, and make smarter academic and professional choices—building a strong foundation for future success.

Vibrant scene at the University Center, bustling with students and activity.

Students walking through the spacious interior of the UNC building, with large blue

Career Conversations

Career Conversations, held each semester, is the top career event for second-year students. Small groups meet with UNC alumni to share insights on key skills such as networking, branding, and current job market trends. Engage, ask questions, and learn valuable strategies to advance your career.

Exciting moments at Career Conversations — students building key skills for their future!

A group of students participating in a career conversation event, sitting around a table with a sign that reads

Networking Night

Networking Night is a valuable event for Monfort students to build connections, enhance soft skills, and explore various career options. Meet company representatives, ask questions, and hear inspiring career stories from alumni and industry professionals—an excellent step toward your future success!

Students connecting and building professional relationships at Networking Night

Students networking and engaging in conversations at Networking Night in a large conference room, with a welcoming

The Elevator Pitch Contest

The Monfort College of Business hosts its annual Elevator Pitch Contest in the lead-up to Networking Night. Students craft and deliver a one-minute pitch about who they are, their passions, and their career goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to boost your confidence, refine your public speaking skills, and receive valuable feedback from business judges.

Congrats to our Pitch Contest winners!

The top three students who won the 2024 Elevator Pitch Contest, dressed in professional clothing, standing against a wood background.

Job, Internship, & Graduate School Fair

Hosted twice a year by the Center for Career Readiness, the fair connects students with employers and graduate programs— perfect for exploring careers, learning about industries, and building valuable connections.

Student actively engaging and building connections at the career fair!

A young woman in a light blue cardigan and white top is listening attentively to another woman during a professional event, standing at a table with informational materials and a laptop.

Need an Alternative?

If you’re unable to attend an event, be sure to check out the written alternative assignment as a valid way to fulfill your requirement.

Approved Alternatives

All students can complete a written alternative assignment if needed. These are usually sent out near the end of March after approved events have passed. Examples include conducting an informational interview or researching three jobs you’re interested in after graduation. The assignments typically involve short-answer and fill-in-the-blank questions.

Seniors can also submit proof of a full-time job offer in their field as an alternative to a job fair. This includes a letter of offer or a similar document with your name, position, and employer contact info. Be sure to block out sensitive info like your social security number or bank details.

Career Development FAQ's

Get answers to your most common questions about fulfilling the Career Development Requirement and how it can support your success.

  • The Career Development Requirement mandates attending one annual event based on your class standing—required for all MCB undergraduates
  • The Professional Experience Requirement involves completing three workshops and then either a 50+ hour professional experience or a 135+ hour internship for credit. This is required for all MCB students, except international students and software engineering majors.

Yes. As part of the Career Development program, you are required to attend ONE event each year you’re enrolled at MCB. Every year that you register for classes, make sure to participate in an event to stay on track with your career readiness goals!

Attend the event that matches your current class year—freshman, sophomore, etc. Feel free to contact us with any questions!

If you have a career development hold, it means you missed the deadline. You can remove the hold by completing an approved alternate assignment. Check your email for options and contact us if you need help.

Watch Our Students in Action at the Career Development Events!

Two students engaged in a conversation during Career Conversations, with one student gesturing as they talk, while other participants work at tables in the background.
Three students dressed in professional clothing smiling and posing together at Career Conversations event.
Four students, dressed in business casual attire, engaged in a conversation at Networking Night, standing around a table with cups and informational materials.
Two women smiling and standing close together, one with her arm around the other, representing Tolmar at an event.

Have Questions? We're Here to Help!