This is the true story of 23 alumni, picked to appear together and talk about what happens when people stop being students and start being real.
In “The Real World Comes to Northwestern” — a collection of panels sponsored by the Northwestern Alumni Association — young alumni told 60 students of today that real problems revolve around cutthroat job competition and a lagging economy, rather than promiscuous roommates and dirty dishes.
The panels Thursday were designed to give students the opportunity to find out about life after graduation.
“We’re here to share what you don’t learn from books,” said Danita Patterson, Communication ’90 and member of the Northwestern Alumni Association Board of Directors. “This event provides a bridge between alumni and students not only in careers but also in life transitions after college.”
Patterson, who founded her own entertainment company, was on the entertainment and media panel, one of four that students could attend from 5 to 7 p.m. at Norris University Center. Other panel topics included business, nonprofit organizations and graduate school.
The event was part of this week’s Homecoming activities, which began Sunday with a Royalty Pageant. The Homecoming court, announced Wednesday, will be presented at the Wildcats’ game University of Wisconsin game at 11 a.m. Saturday. The Homecoming parade will commence 8 p.m. Friday.
Students attending the “Real World” conference could choose two 45-minute discussions, during which panelists offered advice in hopes of giving students a picture of the real world outside of NU.
“A lot of things are possible, but you really do need to pay your dues,” said Patterson, who has worked in the entertainment industry for more than 17 years.
“You have to learn to be in the trenches for a while,” said Greg Topel, a McCormick ’99 graduate on the business panel.
Speakers urged students to keep an open mind about their career aspirations before they enter the “trenches.”
“Six months after you get out (of school), you get exposed to something you didn’t even know existed,” said Chris Hull a McCormick ’98 graduate on the business panel. “There are so many other things out there, you change your mindset incredibly quickly.”
Panelists also encouraged students to make and keep professional connections.
“Network, network, network,” Hull said. “Look for the opportunity to open a door and don’t be afraid to call someone.”
Panelists describe the benefits of using the alumni network.
“Students have an NU family,” Patterson said. “We want students to know we care and understand their transition from school to a career.”
