Receiving a SOM education is about more than learning in a classroom or out of a textbook. Numerous opportunities are available for experiential learning. Networking opportunities are abundant to match potential employers with our students. Guest speakers from around the nation provide a boost to topics covered in classes. SOM students often say these opportunities have a huge impact on their overall educational experience - as well as their career path after graduation. One such student is Leif Van Cise. Leif recently shared some thoughts with us about the opportunities he has been experienced through the School of Management.

 "Currently in my fourth year at UAF, I am working toward a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing. While attending school, I am also the assistant photographer for UAF. As a SOM student, many different opportunities have been available to me.

One of my first out-of-classroom experiences was as the photographer for the fall 2018 Roast and Boast, which turned into a great networking opportunity for me. I connected with local business owners who were attending, and those interactions led to additional photography jobs. The following year, I had the chance to participate in Roast and Boast again as a student in the principles of marketing class. As we planned and hosted the event I learned a lot about marketing events, which is relevant in my job today. It was exciting to work on a team with real businesses instead of just talking about it in the classroom.

Professionally Polished was another program offered to me through SOM. Frank’s Menswear staff taught me about finding my style and selecting appropriate business attire. I felt not only was I updating my wardrobe with high quality business clothes, but I was also building my confidence. In fact, the very next day, I had a photo shoot with Chancellor White and the CEO of GCI, so of course I put on my new clothes. I could not have been happier that I was dressed appropriately for the occasion, armed with confidence, and was able to make a good first impression.

The connections and skills I’ve gained at SOM have brought me many more connections from all over. When I applied for my current job with university relations, I based my resume on one I had made for a SOM class, and I got the job. That job gave me the opportunity to work with Geoforce. Geoforce helps prepare kids from the north slope for college, while giving them a chance to explore the state. I got paid to travel and take photos in Denali, at Portage Glacier, at Matanuska Glacier, and lots of other cool places. Taking advantage of SOM opportunities has shaped my time at college and led to many great experiences."