The idea that getting a start can sometimes be the hardest part is what’s behind this year’s fourth annual George Washington Women in Business spring conference.
On Saturday, an expected 250 budding businessmen and women will convene on the Foggy Bottom Campus for “Start Something,” where they’ll hear from more than 80 professionals who hail from industries as diverse as media, finance, sports, fashion, marketing and hospitality.
“The purpose of this year’s event is to provide attendees with the inspiration and knowledge to create opportunities for themselves,” said senior Emily Bennett, a conference co-chair.
Participants will have the opportunity to network, attend panel discussions and career development workshops and hear from keynote speakers including Sarah Robb O’Hagan, president of Equinox; Alli Webb, founder of Drybar; Janet Gurwitch, founder of Laura Mercier Cosmetics; and Kate White, author and former editor-in-chief of “Cosmopolitan.”
The conference is an opportunity to take what students learn in the classroom and apply it to real-world opportunities. Organizers said they also hope students learn about the diverse career paths they can take—and that perhaps the conference sparks an interest a participant never thought she or he had.
Senior Alexa Vogel, president of the student group, said she’s most excited for the unique stories the keynotes will share, as well as the opportunities for networking for attendees.
“The conference attracts a diverse group of motivated young people that are truly the business leaders of tomorrow,” Ms. Vogel said.
Junior Maria Novick, a conference co-chair, agreed.
“The conference is designed by students, for students,” she said. “It is our goal to give students the opportunity to connect and interact with some of the most successful and trendsetting individuals in their respective industries. We hope to give our attendees the ability to feel empowered, motivated and well connected to their peers and community.”
And, of course, there’s always the chance for some professional advancement.
“Every year,” Ms. Vogel said, “multiple people leave the conference with an internship opportunity or a career mentor.”