When navigating the job market and workplace, women often face significant challenges including gender stereotypes surrounding appearance and leadership abilities, income inequality, and a lack of female role models.

To help female students address these hurdles and others, Montgomery County Community College held a virtual symposium, Launching Women Leaders 2021, on April 10. Dr. Amanda Davis Gatchet, Associate Professor of Communication Studies; Dr. Shuktara Das, Lecturer in Communication Studies; and Jeslin Mathew, Instructor in Communication Studies, facilitated the virtual job market symposium

“This event began as an in-person, all-day event in 2019,” said Davis Gatchet. “We were forced to cancel last spring due to COVID-19, so we are thrilled that we were able to host this symposium virtually this year. We had a variety of students, some just starting out, and some who have been in the workplace for a while and are looking to make a career change. We had great discussions and challenging questions that kept my co-facilitators and me on our toes.”

During the three-and-a-half-hour symposium, participants learned how to write effective résumés and cover letters. They also learned and practiced interviewing skills, learned about appropriate interview attire, and received tips on how to manage their online/social media presence while on the job market.

The highlight of the symposium was a “Girl Talk” panel discussion featuring local women business leaders who took questions and gave advice about navigating the job market and the workplace. The panelists included Anwesha Dutta, BS, MBA, Universal Healthcare Services; Lisa James, MBA, SAP Global Marketing; Shiny M. Mathew, PE, ENV SP; and Eileen Wright, MBA, Bethany Christian Services.

Participants heard about the panelists’ varied experiences, the different challenges they encountered throughout their careers as well as their words of advice based on what they learned.

“It’s important early on in your career to find a mentor or sponsor who can see things in you that you may not see in yourself and can help you develop those skills,” Dutta said.  “A sponsor is different than a mentor and will help you take charge of your career. I call these mentors and sponsors my personal board of directors, similar to the concept of the board of directors of a company. I keep in touch often, and I’ll reach out and bounce ideas about what to do or not to do.”

The panelists spoke about how careers are not necessarily a straight pathway but will often take “twists and turns” and that is ok. They also encouraged the students to not limit themselves, work hard, not get discouraged but keep pushing forward, and ask for what they want.

The event inspired the participants, who left feeling more confident about what to expect and how to prepare for themselves.

“The 2021 Launching Women Leaders event was an eye-opening experience that provided me with the information necessary for my induction into the workforce,” said student Sabina Fernandez. “I not only learned how to build up my resume, make a great first impression at an interview and maintain a professional online presence, but I was also able to learn from a diverse group of panelists who spoke about their journeys to obtaining their current careers.”

“I am so grateful that I was able to attend the Launching Women Leaders conference,” said student Madelyn Anton. “The panelists were my favorite part for the fact they provided great advice on being a woman in a man’s world. The panelists reinforced the idea that I should never question or apologize for my abilities. My only wish would be to hold more sessions and build on all of the knowledge provided to us during this first session!”

The symposium provided helpful information for students at all stages of life.

“I loved the event! As a career changer, I was blown away by the valuable advice - not just for those in their early career but also for those looking to enter a new industry. It boosted my confidence to hear from so many successful women,” said student Elise Chokola.

“This event was very informative. Even though I have many years of being in the workforce as an employee and business owner and had many interviews, I still came out of this event with plenty of notes,” said student Akilyah Russell-Mainor. “The panel of ladies that was interviewed was great as well because they gave their own experience being a successful woman in different fields. The biggest takeaway that I received from the panel that I know can help me was to always ask for what you want and know your worth/position.”

The panelists themselves also were pleased with the opportunity to share their experiences to help others as they start their careers.

“I found myself in awe of the credentials of the other panelist and empowered by the discussion. The cross-section through various industries was very smart, it gave a wide perspective of career paths/advancement opportunities, development of leadership skills, and importance of networking,” said Shiny Mathew.

To help students further prepare for the job market, the facilitators provided some thoughtful gifts for them to use.

“Despite being in a virtual setting this year, we wanted our 2021 participants to still feel that excitement and creativity. Through our many preparation meetings, we settled on a fabulous idea to send two packages to participants. One was sent before the event that included an agenda, Montco swag and a beverage and snack to munch on during our break time. The second was sent after the event was completed and included items such as a messenger bag, professional portfolio, business card holders and a packet of tips/takeaways from the event to set them up as they start their professional journey,” said Jeslin Mathew. “Finally, the greatest gift was seeing our students learn, connect, and take in the stories and advice shared by our wonderful Panelists. I'm proud to say our inaugural Virtual Launching Women Leaders Symposium was a success!”