One of the most popular events of the Walsh academic year is also one of the most beneficial for both students and alumni.
Walsh University welcomed a record number of 55 alumni participants back to campus on February 6-7, for the popular Professor for a Day program. Each semester, Walsh graduates are invited to return to their former classrooms to share their real-world experiences in their chosen field with undergraduate students.
"The program is a win-win for everyone involved," said Director of Alumni Relations Sarah Trescott. "Our students have the opportunity to get to know experts in their fields. They can ask questions, learn about a specific company and network with professionals who were once in their shoes. For our alumni, the day provides a unique opportunity to reconnect with their alma mater and visit with their favorite professors. Professionally, the experience also offers a mentorship opportunity and a chance to recruit young talent to their places of employment."
The Professor for a Day program was organized to provide students with a different perspective on career options and open the door to guest lecturers. Walsh alumni are paired with courses that directly correspond with their careers. As guest lecturers, they speak candidly to students about various topics including the responsibilities of their jobs, what they do on a day to day basis, and how their careers developed.
"I try to go into each class and talk to the students about my own personal journey and how studying abroad influenced me in so many ways," said Emma Coleman ’10, Pharmacy Intern at Giant Eagle Pharmacy. "I feel that travelling has made me a better healthcare provider."
Walsh graduates with direct experience in nursing, education, technology, business, marketing, management, healthcare and entrepreneurship were among the participants in the spring 2017 Professor for a Day event.
First time participant Kathleen (Steel) Ebert ’97, Manager of Nursing Excellence and Quality Outcomes, Magnet Program Director at Grant Medical Center OhioHealth, talked to her class about the NCLEX, job hunting, and career tips. Her advice to the students: "You’re never going to know all the answers, but the key to success is you need to know how to find the correct answer."