The Design Conversations and Connections (DCAC), hosted by the College of Design on Thursday, had employers from across the nation attending the event. DCAC allows design students to reach out to employers and build connections.

Kylee Hulet, who works for CMBA Architects, said that events like these are suitable for students who need experience presenting themselves.

“I think this is a really great opportunity for students to practice how they talk to people and prep them for when they are interviewing and just general adult skills like giving a firm handshake, saying your name, making eye contact, that type of thing,” Hulet said.

Anna Stadel of Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals said she found the company she currently works for through DCAC.

“I actually found them when they came to the career fair in 2016-2017,” Stadel said. “That’s how I kind of started.”

Paige Manssen and Andreas Thedorf, both employees of Uline, said this was their company’s first time at DCAC.

“This is our first time coming to this particular event, but it’s been really great,” Manssen said. “I know Iowa State has a really great design program, so it’s great to be able to spread Uline brand awareness here on campus.” 

They also appreciated the layout of the event.

“It’s very open, it’s very organic and it allows people to talk and move around; definitely better than a giant booth atmosphere,” Thedorf said. “I think it also might make the students feel more comfortable, too.”

Maggie Overturf, a senior in interior design, said that she likes the casualness of the event.

“It’s really nice that you can come and casually ask questions instead of being very formal because that makes it more intimidating,” Overturf said. “This is not as intimidating. I’m not as nervous about it.”

More information on the event can be found here.