The Gustavus Women in Leadership (GWiL) organization offered an opportunity for students to engage in a panel discussion titled “Discovering a Career Path” on the evening of Tuesday, Sep. 16.

The panel was comprised of Taylor Drenttel ‘12 who is currently working in the marketing department of Securian Financial Group, Jeanie Docherty Seehof, president and co-owner of Docherty Incentives and Meetings, Teresa Hunt ‘79, who has served with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and Monica Hammersten ’85, pastor at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church of Minneapolis.

Following a description from each panelist about their career journeys, students in attendance were encouraged to enter the discussion and offer questions. The inquiries included how best to utilize majors and minors, the importance of securing internships, the ideal timeframe for enrollment in graduate school, interview tactics, and how to address sexism in the workplace.

Each panelist shared her perspective, imparting specific advice to those in attendance as well as general guidance for a future in the workplace. Hunt encouraged students to consistently and to actively plan steps toward personal development while envisioning goals for the future. Hammersten ultimately advised that those in attendance pursue their goals and not to feel pressured to follow what parents or others prescribe.

The discussion was organized by Co-Vice Presidents of Business Education, Jordy Drenttel and Danielle Kirchner. Kirchner noted that an intentional effort was made to invite speakers from varied backgrounds and career journeys.

“I think discussions like this really help bridge the gap between what we’re learning in class and what we are going to need to know once we enter the real world, and I think really gives them more information on what their opportunities and possibilities are,” Drenttel said.

This discussion was the first in a series of events the organization plans to host this year.

“I think [the panel discussion] was a good event to get people in the mindset of what GWiL is going to be like this year,” Kirchner said.

Economics and Management Professor Kathi Tunheim serves as the faculty advisor for GWiL, and addressed the purpose of the organization.

“I think discussions like this really help bridge the gap between what we’re learning in class and what we are going to need to know once we enter the real world.”—Jordy Drenttel

Citing statistics which reveal that while women comprise roughly half of the workforce, with the existence of a great disparity in the representation of female CEOs and other elite positions, Tunheim addressed the necessity of organizations which mentor women and encourage leadership development.

“It’s quite well known both in the research and the practical side of the business world that women really learn, grow, and develop when they’re with other women,” Tunheim said.

Tunheim encourages students of all majors and genders to become involved in GWiL, noting that the organization imparts skills and perspectives which many students may not receive in a conventional classroom setting.

“No matter what their major is, whether they’re going to the business world or not, they’re not learning in their textbooks how to gain confidence, how to have a good firm handshake, and how to deliver an effective presentation in the business world. So I think it’s our responsibility as an excellent Liberal Arts institution to get our students ready for whatever is next,” Tunheim said.

Students interested in joining the organization will pay a $10 registration fee, though scholarships are also available.

-Libby Larson