Inner Circle Hosts Nebraska's Young Alumni Academy

Last week, Inner Circle hosted the Nebraska Alumni Association's Young Alumni Academy (YAA), comprised of 40 of UNL's most prominent young alumni, for a speed networking event in Memorial Stadium.

Through a number of one-on-one, three minute conversations, Inner Circle members had the opportunity to practice and master a number of networking techniques they have learned from Nebraska letterwinners and their advisor Ashley Stone. These techniques included the foundational elements of networking, such as conversation starters and handshakes, as well as the small yet powerful nuances of making a positive and lasting impression, such as the influence of body language and professional presence. 

“Getting the opportunity to meet and speak with a variety of alumni was such a great experience,” said Jordan Ehly, sophomore swimming and diving student-athlete from Las Cruces, New Mexico. “I believe there is no better way to prepare for the future in the workforce than to learn as much as possible from those around you . . . being able to connect with these individuals not only helped me professionally, but personally as well.”

Alumni expressed similar sentiments, leaving the evening invigorated and inspired. 

“First and foremost, the athletes I met were GREAT,” said Marilyn Buresh, YAA member and Materials Coordinator, Technical Editor, and Associate Onboarding Lead at Talent Plus, Inc. “My cup was definitely filled tonight.”

While students networked with YAA members, they also shared stories of their student-athlete experience, including information about Nebraska’s Life Skills program.

"I didn't realize our athletic programs were involved with a ‘life skills’ program as extensive and as detailed as the one [Nebraska Life Skills] runs for them at UNL,” said Mike Ostdiek, YAA member and Regional Director of Modern Woodmen of America. “In my career and travels, I have done a lot of recruiting and work with several colleges and universities and have never seen a program that is like this, so it makes me even more proud to be a Husker.”

Inner Circle will partner with Nebraska’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 13th to prepare notes and small tokens of appreciation for those on campus who have impacted and influenced their student-athlete experience.