iConnect “connects” industry representatives and STEM role models with STEM undergraduate students who identify as women through corporate-led meetups and workshops, STEM role model panels and facilitated networking “connection” dinners where students practice networking skills, career fair etiquette and introductions in an informal and low-stress setting. Throughout iConnect programming, students learn about STEM career and company opportunities and pathways through facilitated STEM role model connections.

Why should I attend iConnect Dinners?

 Students participating will:
-Gain both knowledge and skills required for a success in the workplace
-Increase their confidence in networking and job search skills
-Increase awareness of STEM career pathways
–Have opportunities to connect and network with STEM role models 

What happens at an iConnect dinner?

Students are seated at round tables with 1-2 corporate representatives and 7-8 students. Between chatting and eating, short presentations of 3-4 minutes are shared and students practice with each other in this informal setting.

About every 20 minutes, the corporate representatives rotate so that students can meet multiple role models.

At the end of the dinner, open networking gives students the opportunity to talk to any and all the corporate representatives.

Are there themes or topics for each dinner event?

For the fall semester, the iConnect dinner is about how to prepare for career fairs. You learn how to introduce yourself, shake hands (or whatever) and figure out what questions to ask a recruiter. We also learn and practice the Power Pose to boost your confidence before an interview.

For the spring semester, the iConnect dinner is about dining etiquette during an interview/professional setting. You learn table manners, place setting (your forks, plates, glasses) and conversation etiquette. We also learn about pre and post dining manners for RSVP (and what this means), arrival, departure and follow up.

Are there other iConnect events?

Yes, these vary by semester and depends on how each company wants to engage with you. These events can include resume workshops, coffee chats, meet and greets, panel presentations and site visits.

WiSTEM will invite students via the WiSTEM Canvas Community, newsletters and on our social media channels.

Check back for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 iConnect events

Table Sponsorships and iConnect Collaborator or Champion level corporate partnerships are available. Contact wistem@utexas.edu for details.

Email us: wistem@utexas.edu