“Every year, IIDA hosts a career prep workshop called Portfolios + Professionals for students in the Mid America Chapter area to have the chance to talk to and get feedback from professionals in the industry.  The students who attended started their day with a tour of the Burns+McDonnell workplace, where the event was held this year.  During lunch, students got to know the professional(s) at their table in a relaxed environment, which was followed by break-out sessions where they learned more about the profession, NCIDQ testing, and branding.  Ending with portfolio reviews, which were set up like “speed dating,” the students were able to talk through their work and resumes with professionals and ask questions to prepare for future interviews.  The level of progression varied between each student, which kept the conversations interesting.  I critiqued students that just had a “teaser” document prepared to students that were far along and almost ready for the interview process.  It’s an awarding process being able to help students further develop their portfolio and professional skills so they are prepared to enter the industry, whether it’s for an internship or full time employment.”

– Miranda Walz, Design Solutions Consultant, Scott Rice Office Works

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