The Iowa State Student Government recently launched the “Know Your Leaders” Town Hall Series, providing students with the opportunity to engage with campus decision-makers and discuss pressing issues. The latest event, held on Feb. 18, 2025, at Carver Hall in Ames, IA, featured a panel of prominent figures, including Bobbi Sullivan, Kipp Van Dyke, Michael Levine, and Chad Olson, who shared insights on student success resources at Iowa State University.
Empowering Post-Graduation Success
One of the key focuses of the discussion was the role of Business Career Services in supporting students both during their college years and as they transition into the post-graduate phase. Bobbi Sullivan, the director of Iowa State Business Career Services, highlighted the wide range of services offered to students, including job search assistance, resume building, cover letter writing, LinkedIn profile creation, and financial planning post-graduation.
Sullivan emphasized the importance of helping students navigate the often daunting process of entering the job market and managing their finances effectively. “We want to equip students with the tools they need to succeed beyond graduation,” she stated. The panelists underscored the significance of providing ongoing support to students as they navigate the complexities of post-graduation life, emphasizing the value of mentorship and guidance in this critical phase of their academic journey.
Adapting to Technological Trends
The discussion also delved into the evolving role of technology in shaping the student experience at Iowa State University. Kipp Van Dyke, associate dean of Students for Student Assistance and Academic Success, highlighted the transformative impact of virtual connectivity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Van Dyke noted how the shift to virtual platforms has facilitated greater accessibility and convenience for students and families, particularly in processes like completing the FAFSA form.
Artificial intelligence emerged as another key theme, with panelists acknowledging the growing integration of AI technology into classroom settings and student resources. Sullivan emphasized the importance of embracing AI as a valuable educational tool, encouraging students to leverage AI chat bots for inspiration and learning. The panelists emphasized the need for educators and students alike to adapt to technological advancements to enhance the learning experience and prepare students for future career opportunities.
Enhancing Student Engagement
Feedback from students played a crucial role in shaping the discussion, with panelists highlighting the significance of student input in refining campus resources and events. Chad Olson, MBA and FAAC director for the Office of Student Financial Aid, emphasized the value of student surveys in gauging satisfaction levels and identifying areas for improvement. Olson underscored the importance of leveraging student feedback to enhance services and programs to better meet the needs of the student body.
In response to student feedback regarding career fairs, Bobbi Sullivan shared innovative strategies implemented to create a more inclusive and engaging environment for students and employers. By incorporating visual cues such as large banners above booths, students were able to easily identify companies recruiting for specific roles, internships, and job functions, fostering meaningful connections and conversations.
The next installment of the “Know Your Leaders” series is set to feature Director of Athletics Jamie Pollard discussing student athletics, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with a key figure in the university’s sports community. Stay tuned for more enriching conversations and insights as the Iowa State Student Government continues to foster dialogue and collaboration among students, faculty, and campus leaders.
Donations from readers like you play a vital role in supporting the dedicated student journalists at the Iowa State Daily, enabling them to pursue excellence in reporting, equip themselves with essential resources, and contribute to the vibrant campus community. Your contribution makes a difference in empowering student journalists to tell compelling stories, shed light on important issues, and uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Thank you for your generous support in helping us continue our mission of delivering quality journalism to the Iowa State University community.
