There are some things you just can’t learn in a classroom. Like the lifestyle differences between working as a consultant versus working in-house, or what role an ergonomist can play in designing equipment for a meat-processing plant.
These are just a few of the topics Kinesiology alumna Karen Hoodless discusses regularly with today’s students when she volunteers at the Applied Health Sciences' (AHS) Speed Networking event. Modelled on the pre-Tinder speed-dating format, Speed Networking sees students rotating between stations where they are able to chat with AHS alumni from many professions. Now approaching its tenth year, Speed Networking is a wonderful way for alumni to offer guidance and mentorship to today’s students.
Chiropractor Jeff Goldsworthy (BSc ’83, Kinesiology) also attends regularly and finds students grateful for his knowledge of how to establish careers in chiropractic, occupational therapy and physiotherapy. “I definitely see more interest from students today in pursuing chiropractic, which is great for the field,” says Jeff. A stalwart alumnus, Jeff also routinely hosts co-op students at his Waterloo-based practice.
Both Karen and Jeff say they return faithfully to take part in Speed Networking because they enjoy talking with the students. “Waterloo just feels like home,” says Karen. “I love coming back, and it’s a great opportunity to help these young people get answers they might not find in the classroom.”
Thank you to all our loyal alumni mentors! Speed Networking 2018 takes place January 31. Contact Karry Kwan if you'd like to participate: karry.kwan@uwaterloo.ca, 519-888-4567, ext. 32610.
Photo: Karen Hoodless (BSc ’89, Kinesiology), pictured inset at graduation, and sharing stories and career advice at Speed Networking 2017 this past January.
