Twenty-eight psychology alumni returned to campus this fall for the Psychology Pathways Dinner, an event designed to connect current students with graduates who have built meaningful careers in fields like clinical practice, business, law, and more. For many students, the evening was transformative. One student shared, “I think it changed my entire career pathway. I realized that the career I have been imagining might not work best for me, and I got lots of information about some different options. It was very eye-opening.”
The generosity of the alumni who attended and shared their expertise is a testament to the strength of our community. Their willingness to mentor the next generation of psychology majors, whether by offering advice on graduate school applications or sharing personal stories about their careers, leaves a lasting impact on students. Alumni enjoy the experience as well. As one participant shared, “This is my favorite event of the year. It’s less formal than other networking events and really allows students to admit they are exploring.”
To continue building these meaningful connections, we invite more alumni to participate in similar opportunities, whether in person or virtually. Sharing career advice, answering questions, or discussing professional experiences can have a profound effect on students who are still discovering their paths. From events like the Pathways Dinner to guest lectures and online panels, alumni engagement is vital to helping students imagine and shape their futures. We warmly encourage all alumni to join us in empowering our students and strengthening our psychology network. Visit psych.wisc.edu/connect-with-students to learn more.