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Transitioning from college life to the work world can be a harrowing experience for just about anyone – figuring out what to wear, how to network effectively or master the interview protocol – knowing where to start can be difficult. Fortunately, help is on the way.

On Wednesday, Feb. 28, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., �鶹��ѡ, along with the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Cleveland Northeast Ohio Chapter, will host “Your Career: Getting Down to Business – Setting Goals, Growing Your Network and Grooming Success” in the recently opened Integrated Sciences Building at Kent State. The event will serve as the chapter’s launch of an initiative designed to deepen relationships with undergraduate and graduate students throughout Northeast Ohio, and to help students and soon to-be-graduates navigate the sometimes difficult path into that first job and career. 

“The value of being a part of a trusted organization that provides black professionals with the platform for professional development, leadership, networking and scholarship opportunities is important and can be a big contributor to our members’ success – first as a student, and throughout one’s professional career journey,” says Shaquira Johnson, president of the National Black MBA Association Cleveland Northeast Ohio Chapter. “He or she has to take the time to invest in the future. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with �鶹��ѡ in creating a model we can potentially replicate with other colleges and universities in the area. As a chapter, we want to open doors of opportunity for more students and business professionals, and for them to experience success when they step through those doors.”

�鶹��ѡstudents will have an opportunity to network with seasoned professionals from the Northeast Ohio business community, including representatives from KeyBank, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, PNC and others. Scheduled activities include a brief discussion on how to effectively network, leverage alumni connections to meet career goals, the importance of lifelong learning as a career strategy and preparing for success. Additionally, 2017 National Black MBA Association scholarship recipients from �鶹��ѡwill be recognized.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for African-American students at Kent State, and we are excited to deepen our relationship with the National Black MBA Association Cleveland Northeast Ohio Chapter,” says James Blank, dean of Kent State’s College of Arts and Sciences. “I know that our students will benefit from this collaboration and the chance to see and speak to African-American business leaders, some of whom are also �鶹��ѡalumni from throughout Northeast Ohio. It is fantastic for all majors and disciplines since more than half of MBA graduates have an undergraduate degree outside of business and one-third of all Fortune 500 CEOs have a liberal arts degree. This underscores the fact that business relies on individuals with varying perspectives and skill sets – the humanities, communications, science and technology. It runs the gamut.”

To learn more about “Your Career: Getting Down to Business” and for registration information, please visit www.kent.edu/cas under featured events.