On May 11, the University of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communications livestreamed a Zoom virtual panel call hosted by SJMC director David Ryfe. Watch the full recorded video here.

The panel discussed how to look for a career during the pandemic, with graduating seniors. It was attended by nearly 20 students; spring 2020 graduates Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw and Ayo Ogunwusi discussed their job searches with panelists. 

The panelists each have differing career experiences, allowing them to provide unique insight to the Zoom call. Zack Kucharski, an executive editor at The Gazette in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, stressed the importance of working with mentors and building a reliable network, saying that the “network that you’re building now will be with you your whole career.” Students can connect with SJMC alumni on LinkedIn by visiting our SJMC page here and visiting the "Alumni" section. Students can search for specific alum, industry or location and connect or send a private message.  Our alumni are generally very willing to help out a fellow alum with advice, suggestions, industry, location information and more.

Mark Mathis, partner and Chief Creative Officer at AMPERAGE Marketing & Fundraising, told students to “take anything you can find” and encouraged creativity during a job search. He gave tips for virtual interviews, including placing a piece of paper with potential questions and reminders by webcams. Common interview questions can be found here. 

Lynn Manternach, president of PAB and co-owner of MindFire Communications, acknowledged the stress that comes along with a job search, especially during a pandemic. Manternach offered students tips and tactics for managing stress, encouraging them to use it to their advantage. One tip she gave focused on breathing techniques, which can be found here. 

The panel wrapped the call with a conversation that focused on virtual job interviewing, offering attendees methods to navigate the newest way to interview. 

All interested graduating seniors have been paired with a mentor to help them through their transitions.