Attending Professional Networking Events: Boeing AUC Dinner (3 points) - (Jaina McKoy Class of 2028)

    As a sophomore, I wanted to start taking advantage of all the career and professional development opportunities that Spelman has to offer, so when career week began, I made an effort to participate in as many events as possible. My highlight of the week was on Thursday, September 18th, when I participated in a mock interview with Boeing to practice my elevator pitch and overall interview skills. The interview went by smoothly, granted, I have had interviews in the past, which have built my confidence in them. This confidence radiated through me as my interviewer, Darlene Fox, commented on my calm aura and level-headedness throughout the process. Despite the fact that Boeing didn’t completely align with my current aspirations in medicinal research, she advised that we remain in contact. She invited me to the AUC dinner that Boeing was hosting that same evening. This dinner served as a connection for AUC students interested in Boeing internship programs, allowing them to connect not only with Boeing employees but also with fellow students with whom they might work in the future. Initially, I found it a bit difficult to engage, as I felt a sense of impostor syndrome, given that I am not actively pursuing an experience with Boeing, while the other students were thrilled about future opportunities. However, that evening with the Boeing team taught me not to be so closed-minded. Focusing solely on my field of interest can prevent me from making connections in the moment, which may prove beneficial in the future. Once I overcame that mental block, the rest of the dinner was entertaining and insightful; it taught me how to properly conduct myself at these kinds of events for future reference. Overall, I am immensely grateful to have been granted the opportunity to attend this networking event and build professional connections alongside my AUC peers. I intend to keep an eye out for Boeing’s future campus visits.

Jaina McKoy

Class of 2028