“As a non-traditional student, it was beneficial to me to listen to all the guest speakers that were invited to my leadership course,” said graduating senior Michael McDonald. “Sometimes it can be overwhelming being in a classroom full of students that are half your age and have been exposed to different levels of technology most of their academic lives, but hearing the stories and paths traveled by previous students and current professionals helps to ease the anxiety. Hearing how many of the guest speakers pivoted from other careers into technology with little to no experience gave me the confidence needed to push forward in this field. I truly appreciate each one of them for their time and wisdom.”   “I would say that the best thing about having speakers come to class and talk is the connections you get from them and how they will help you with your career either presently or in the future if you connect with them after they speak,” said graduating senior Rachel Hester. “These speakers are such an important thing to have in class because there’s no other classes that help you establish yourself and build industry links and this one actively does that throughout the semester.” Westen Zawacki-Dorweiler graduated a month ago from FSU and is now working for A-lign. When asked about his takeaways, he said, “Professor Randeree brings a variety of guest speakers into his IT leadership class, who show us the ample opportunities and occupations where they have used their IT and ICT degrees. Additionally, it allows us students to form industry connections and network with those who were in our shoes not long ago. I can personally attest to this – having pursued a career and company that was introduced to me through a guest speaker in this class. The value of allowing students to engage in career defining conversations with potential mentors cannot be undermined!” “The guest speakers in class were great,” said Adam MacDougall. “It was mainly FSU students 5 years after graduating recounting what their college experience was like and the steps that they took to be in their careers. They all worked in a variety of different fields and have found success and passion in what they are doing. We learned what they did and what they wish did and didn’t do throughout the entire hiring process and when starting a full time job for the first time, such as questions to ask and things to be aware before accepting a job and red flags to watch out for. I learned a lot about what pitfalls to avoid and things to do now to be better prepared for the future. It inspired me to reach out to an alum I knew and after hearing his story after graduation I have found guidance for career opportunities that I want to pursue.”