Mocktails & Mingle: First Generation

November 10th 5:30-7PM

Parlors Room, Kansas Union 5th Floor

Are you a first-generation college student? Has the college journey included challenges because you don't know what questions to ask or even what you don’t know? Are you unsure of what career to explore and what that will be like as a first-generation student? Come visit our Mocktails & Mingle: First-Generation Student event!

This is a casual social event where you can connect with working professionals who were also once first-generation college students. These KU alumni and affiliates work in a variety of fields and this event allows you to learn about their college and career journeys. Find out the limitless career options available to you. Alumni from all sorts of industries will be in attendance, and some of the companies they work for include: DST Systems, Advisors Excel, Honeywell, Olathe Health Center, University of Kansas, State of Kansas Attorney General's Office, Homebase, the KU Natural History Museum and more!

What do I need to bring? 

Absolutely nothing! Mocktails and Mingle is about good ol’ fashion conversation. We want you to come and engage with people who share a similar experience of being a first-generation college student. No need to bring a resume.

What do I need to wear?

There’s not one right answer. In the past, students have worn dress pants and a nice shirt. This is a casual event (complete with heavy appetizers!) so wearing jeans without holes and a nice shirt or blouse works too. If you want to dress up, check out our Professional House of Garments (PHOG) located on the 2nd floor of Summerfield Hall. Check in at Room 206.

How do I start conversation?

If you already have questions you want to know about how to navigate college life and career exploration, awesome! Not sure what to ask? There will be conversation starters provided for you! University Career Center staff members will also be there to help connect you with someone you may be interested in talking with. Mocktails and Mingle is all about broadening your understanding of possible careers by talking to people doing the work.

What should we talk about?

Anything and everything you want to! You’re here to discover what you can do with your degree, so ask them how they got to this point in their career. Ask them, what did you major in; what advice do they have for you while you’re in college; what skills do you need to develop? These alumni have been in your shoes and are excited to talk with you!

Mocktails and Mingle is co-sponsored by the University of Kansas Alumni Association and the Academic Retention and Engagement Center.