By Nikola Tzenov, Photography by Nikola Tzenov
First-year students from McDaniel College took an important step toward building professional connections during a networking event held January 22 at Exploration Commons at the Carroll County Public Library.
The event, organized in partnership with the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, welcomed students enrolled in McDaniel’s My Design course, a first-year seminar that encourages students to explore their strengths, interests and long-term goals.
Designed to introduce students to career possibilities early in their college experience, the course emphasizes reflection, intentional planning and engagement beyond the classroom.
Local business owners, professionals and community leaders attended the event to share stories from their career paths, discuss challenges they have faced and offer advice on navigating professional life.
Conversations covered a wide range of topics, including career changes, leadership development and the value of adaptability in today’s workforce. Students were encouraged to ask questions, practice networking skills and learn firsthand how different career journeys can unfold.
To help spark conversations and ensure students connected with a variety of attendees, organizers introduced an interactive bingo-style networking activity. Each card listed personal and professional experiences—such as studying abroad, switching college majors or owning a business—and professionals could sign a student’s card only once.
The activity motivated students to step outside their comfort zones and engage with multiple professionals throughout the evening. Students who completed their bingo cards earned tickets for a prize drawing held at the conclusion of the event.
Four students were selected as prize winners, bringing the evening to a celebratory close. Overall, the event provided students with valuable exposure to the local professional community while reinforcing the importance of relationship-building, exploration and career readiness early in their college careers.
