On Monday 11 March, Josephine Butler College hosted its much-anticipated Annual Networking Dinner, bringing together current students and alumni for an evening of meaningful conversations, career insights, and professional connections.
The event, held in Howlands Hall, saw an impressive turnout, with 15 alumni and 115 current students in attendance. It was an invaluable opportunity for students to engage with graduates who have successfully navigated the transition from university to professional life.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Principal Gillian Hampden-Thompson who set the tone for the night. She emphasised the significance of networking and how events like this help current students prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. She extended a heartfelt thank you to the alumni in attendance, acknowledging their willingness to give back to the Butler community by sharing their experiences and career advice.
Gillian highlighted the importance of reflecting on the skills gained through college life, noting that leadership roles in societies, sports teams, and college committees help students develop attributes such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving — qualities that employers highly value. She also shared an anecdote from a parent who had attended the recent Butler Fashion Show. The parent, who is involved in graduate recruitment, was impressed by the way Butler students can articulate their experiences and how these contribute to workplace skills — an advantage in an increasingly competitive job market.
A highlight of the evening was the two panel Q&A sessions, which provided students with a unique opportunity to engage with successful Butler alumni from a diverse range of industries. The panellists included:
Students actively engaged with the panellists, asking insightful questions across several key themes:
Dinner was served following the first Q&A session, providing an opportunity for a relaxed conversation over a delicious meal. To encourage interaction and broaden discussions, alumni were invited to rotate seats between the main course and dessert, ensuring that students could engage with a diverse range of professionals. This structured networking approach allowed for a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and confidence in networking situations.
As the formal part of the evening concluded, attendees moved to JBs for an informal post-dinner networking session. This provided a more relaxed setting for conversations to continue, allowing students to build on the connections made earlier in the evening. The event successfully created a supportive and engaging environment where students could gain confidence in networking and career planning.
Overall, the Josephine Butler College Annual Networking Dinner was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and better equipped for the transition into the professional world. The evening underscored the strength of the Josephine Butler College community and the value of building professional relationships that extend beyond the university. For students, it was a reminder that networking is not just about securing a job but about learning from others, seeking guidance, and shaping a future with confidence and purpose.
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