"It's about who you know and what you know." Since graduating from Northern Illinois University's College of Business five years ago I have heard many stories supporting this statement. I reflect upon one story in particular about a former Marketing/MIS classmate of mine. This individual was interviewing for a consultant position at a global top five consulting firm in Chicago. There were six candidates in total, five of which were alumni of a prestigious Midwest business school being interviewed by their fellow alumni. The interview process was long and arduous, testing one of NIU's best. In the end, the prestigious Midwest business alumni network prevailed, reassuring their position within this firm. The outcome serves as a constant reminder that through the work of the Northern Illinois University Young Professionals Network we can help build a community of NIU alumni to help NIU and its alumni succeed.
I have found that there are many alumni that share similar stories and who realize that their contributions have a significant impact in helping strengthen the image and reputation of NIU's College of Business in the business community. The Young Professionals Network was established as a springboard to foster existing relationships and provide outlets for establishing new professional relationships that will benefit you, the College of Business and NIU. The Young Professionals Network is in its first year of operation. We are laying the groundwork for a Network that will offer opportunities to socialize with COB alumni and NIU Executive Club members. It is with your support that together we will help elevate the status of the College of Business and give back to NIU; ultimately creating a highly-regarded presence for the College and its alumni within the business community. Next time the NIU alumni will have the Network.
If you aspire to be an executive within an organization or your own business; are looking for ways to network with NIU COB alumni; and want to give back to NIU in new and intriguing ways; then consider joining the Young Professionals Network.
Respectfully,
Brian Gillet – brian.gillet@otaotr.com
President, Young Professionals Network
2001 Marketing, 2002 MIS
