On October 25, the Life After Thomas Program, designed to connect alumni with students on a variety of topics around career and professional development, hosted its first event: “Networking through Nerves,” a panel discussion about why networking is important and how to start – even when it’s a little nerve-wracking.

Alumni panelists included Kevin Mahoney ’82, CFO of Community Concepts in Lewiston and Life After Thomas Program volunteer; Amanda Drummond ’12, Administrative Assistant/Para Planner with Choice Wealth Advisors in Lewiston; Reilly Kons ’17, Insurance Agent with GHM Agency in Waterville; and Jeff Gosselin ’93, Senior Vice President with Mechanic Savings Bank in Auburn.

Alumni spoke about their own professional and personal experiences networking, and how connecting with a broad variety of individuals benefited them. “I have been networking for years – it’s incredibly important to my business,” said Jeff Gosselin ’93. “And just when I think I have a large network, I discover that I need to start again and keep meeting new people.”

Alumni also offered tips and techniques on how to “work a room,” utilize social media to its fullest advantage as professionals, and the sometimes-surprising results of growing and maintaining a strong network. Reilly Kons ’17 suggested doing a little homework before attending networking events. “If I have a potential client who I think I’ll see there, I check out their Facebook page to see what is new in their business. I can pick up some great talking points for a conversation.”

For more information on the Life After Thomas Program and how you can get involved, please contact Chelsie Pleau ’13, Director of Alumni Relations, at pleauc@thomas.edu.