New role helps Furman students build career networks through conversations

Melanie Armstrong sauntered through Furman University’s Career and Internship Fair with a notepad and pen in her hands, taking notes as each student met with dozens of professionals.

How are students’ introductions and elevator pitches? Are their conversations going well? Are they asking good questions? How do Furman students’ networking skills compare to those at other universities?

Armstrong walks with Molly MacDonald ’28 outside of Johns Hall on Sept. 18. Photo by Nathan Gray, Furman University.

As the newly created associate director of networking and student connections, Armstrong connects students to professionals in their fields of interest. A former mentoring coordinator, Armstrong ’94 has a passion for building relationships between students and working professionals.

“She will serve as the hub that connects students with alumni and other friends of Furman so that we leverage the incredible work of Furman supporters to help our students understand what the possibilities are after Furman,” said Beth Pontari, vice president for Academic Affairs and provost.

Furman has multiple programs connecting students and recent graduates with alumni and professionals. To sign up for these programs, register here.

Armstrong said she ensures each student has at least one of these conversations by the end of their sophomore year. She also works with students to refine their resumes and sharpen their interviewing skills.

“By the time they leave Furman University they’re well-versed in how to have professional conversations with insight into what they want to do,” Armstrong said. “And for the professionals involved, I tell them you get the chance to be the guide you wish you had at their age.”