Each summer, Colgate University students and alumni gather for an evening of celebration and connection, swapping stories over hors d’oeuvres. Called Colgate in Your City, this series of events takes place in cities like Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the District of Columbia.
Associate Director of the Professional Networks Jillian Cole ’10 describes Colgate in Your City as memorable for everyone in the community.
“The program was developed out of a desire to build strong relationships between students and alumni,” Cole said. “It helps students receive valuable insight from alumni who are experts in their industries of interest.”
For Kendall Williamson ’21, who attended the San Francisco edition of Colgate in Your City, the event was a way to open doors to future success. “It’s incredibly important to connect with alumni,” she said. “Everyone I met was enthusiastic and eager to share the knowledge and skills they acquired both during and after their time at Colgate.”
For her part, Emily Raiber ’02 co-hosted the Los Angeles event. “Our alumni are passionate, smart, and share a love for Colgate that can’t be explained without being experienced,” she said. “I credit my internship experience while at Colgate with helping me land my first job in television. I know that these summers are crucial to helping students discover their passion and lay the foundation for their careers.”
The Professional Networks allow students to engage with alumni, explore employment options, and seek inspiration. Cole cites the partnership with Career Services as a leading contributor to the rise in student participation in summer internships around the country.
“By creating Colgate connections, students can expand their networks and maximize their opportunities,” she said.