Spring Quarter '26 Roundtable Review

Roundtable Review: Building Your Career One Connection at a Time

This quarter, the EPAP/ESM Mentorship Program hosted two Roundtable discussions centered on professional development and networking. While the conversations covered everything from technical skills to LinkedIn etiquette, a common message emerged: building a successful career is not about having everything figured out, but about staying curious, taking initiative, and investing in relationships.

One of the biggest takeaways for students was that professional development is an ongoing process. Our panelists emphasized that graduation is not the finish line for learning. Instead, careers are built through continuous growth, whether that means seeking out new training opportunities, developing technical skills, attending conferences, or simply asking questions. Students appreciated hearing that they do not need to enter the workforce as "finished products" and that learning on the job is both expected and encouraged.

Networking was another major focus of the discussions, and many students walked away with a new perspective on what it means to build professional connections. Rather than viewing networking as a transactional process, panelists encouraged students to approach it as an opportunity to form genuine relationships. Conversations with classmates, coworkers, alumni, and professionals can open doors to unexpected opportunities and provide valuable insight into different career paths. Many mentors shared that some of their most significant career opportunities came from relationships they had built years earlier.

The Roundtables also highlighted the importance of taking initiative. Whether applying for a position that feels out of reach, reaching out to someone on LinkedIn, or attending a workshop or conference, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. As one recurring theme suggested, confidence is often built through action rather than waiting until you feel completely prepared.

Above all, these conversations reminded students that careers are not linear and that success looks different for everyone. Building practical skills, cultivating meaningful relationships, and remaining open to new opportunities will continue to shape careers long after graduation.

A huge thank you to all of our mentors for sharing their experiences and advice. Their honesty and willingness to reflect on both successes and challenges helped students feel more confident about navigating their own professional journeys.