Story by Leah Ash, Culture Editor

In the job search process, have you ever heard the phrase: it’s not what you know, it’s who you know? The skills you have are an important part of landing a job but networking is nearly as important.  

The AQ Advantage Center and the Aquinas Alumni Association Leadership Council have partnered to offer students the chance to attend “Mocktails and Mingle,” on Tuesday, January 31 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Donnelly Center. 

According to Ally Mills, the Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, “This is a low stakes networking event. It really is for students to connect and practice networking with people who share a common love for Aquinas College.”

Networking can often be an overwhelming task and this event is intended to be a casual approach to connecting with professionals. Students will not only be able to connect with people who work in a field they are interested in but also talk to graduates and ask for advice as they prepare to enter life after college. 

“Students should attend this event to meet alumni, build their networking skills and make connections,” said Mills. “You never know what relationship might be made to propel your future!”

The event has over 30 alumni currently registered to attend and from all different fields: expect people in finance, arts, writing, healthcare, community engagement and more. 

Two alumni are being highlighted as they are helping to host the event. Make sure to talk to Katy McAvoy (‘01), who recently published the book “Homemade Happy Hour.” Amy Sherman (‘94) is famous in West Michigan for not only her radio and podcast host skills, but also her ability to find the best of everything in our state. 

Above all else, this will be a light hearted event that all students are invited to attend and have fun. Dress nice, bring your friends and enjoy a mocktail while chatting with other members of the Aquinas College community.