The Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University provides students with unique learning and networking opportunities with communication professionals. Arguably the best event to utilize these benefits is at the annual Murrow Symposium.

At the 43rd Murrow Symposium, the overarching theme was “Tell Your Story.” Topics revolved around mastering the art, business and science of storytelling. Guest alumni included Robert Siegel from NPR, Anna Cabrera from CNN, Eric Johnson from KOMO 4, and many more industry experts. Networking sessions, discussion panels, and hands-on workshops gave students the chance to converse, learn, and network.

Attendance is not mandatory for Murrow students, but several professors promote the event and encourage students to go. As a student who has had the opportunity to attend the Murrow Symposium the last two years, I can speak from experience than my attendance has drastically improved my professional development.

At my first Murrow Symposium, I was new to the game and didn’t know what to expect. I couldn’t network to save my life, my resumes printed out pixelated and weren’t legible, and I had no business cards. After speaking to some professionals, I realized that the point of the event wasn’t to chip away at my confidence. Alumni understand that you are a student and may not have any experience interacting with professionals. Their goal is to help you get ready for the workforce, graduation, and beyond.

After attending this event, I had a new set of skill sets loaded in my arsenal. I created a LinkedIn account and understood how to use it, had a new list of connections, and created new goals for myself. Two months after Symposium, I landed my first two internships and got involved with the Daily Evergreen.

This year’s Symposium continued to teach me even more skills. I had the opportunity to be a student host and was paired up with a professional in my industry. Melissa Stalsberg, CEO of Stalsberg Productions, provided me with advice, resume critiquing, and companionship during the course of Symposium. I feel more prepared for graduation and am excited for the opportunities to come.

If you are a Murrow student who has never attended Symposium, I cannot emphasize the importance and value of attending enough. Take advantage every year you can. You’ll never know who you might meet during your time at the Murrow Symposium.