HiBA members attended the 11th Annual Harvard Intercollegiate Business Convention (IBC) on October 17th, 2015.  Sponsored, by Harvard Women in Business, the mission of the conference is to build a global support network and community of empowerment for collegiate women interested in business. Members were able to attend this conference with support of the UConn Honors Young Alumni Fund and other funding sources.

Attendees heard from three inspirational keynote speakers: Jeanne Jackson, President of Product & Merchandising, Nike; Phyllis Yale, Advisory Partner, Bain & Company; and Rosalind Brewer, CEO and President, Sam’s Club Walmart. “I was inspired by the speakers who emphasized that there is no one way to the perfect career. Each path is unique, yet every one requires you to pursue it with determination, confidence, and passion.” Emily Vasington ’16

The all-day event brought together over 1,000 high achieving students from around the world who are interested in business. Students attending developed a greater understanding of current business issues and trends, promoting relevant discussions upon their return to campus and furthering their personal learning beyond the classroom.

UConn students took part in numerous breakout sessions, heard from world renowned business leaders, and most importantly, walked away having learned key ways to succeed in today’s business world. “I learned so much at the conference.  One takeaway from two of the workshops I attended was that you don’t have to have everything figured out right now as far as career path.  It was great to hear this from women who succeeded in their field and told us about their career changes.” Holly Chase ’17

Themes of breakout sessions included healthcare, non-profits, finance, media, marketing and entrepreneurship to name a few. Attendees discussed relevant and emerging trends with a network of over 1,000 students and professionals. Students had the opportunity to talk directly with company representatives such as L.E.K. Consulting, The Economist, Goldman Sachs and Constant Contact, a company Honors in Business Association has previously hosted. “The IBC definitely aided my professional development.  I learned about different career paths in banking and consulting, which are both areas of interest to me.  There was also a mini career and business school fair that provided networking opportunities.  I believe that the more chances you have to network the better you get at it. It’s great to just grow your knowledge and contacts, so I’m glad the IBC allowed me to do that.”  Nicole Gauer ’18

Honors in Business Association looks forward to providing this opportunity to members next fall through the continued support of alumni.