Professional development

Because employers desire well-rounded new employees, the college can differentiate its students in both job placement and career advancement by providing them with an innovative, extensive professional development program.

Melody Marcks (BS BA ’83), VP and director of human resources and training for Boone County National Bank in Columbia, served on the planning committee. “Working in human resources, I understand the value of students’ not only acquiring knowledge through their coursework, but also a large measure of professionalism through extracurricular activities,” Marcks says. “The combination makes graduates more attractive to prospective employers.”

This fall, to better prepare its students, the college launched a broader, more formal Professional Development Program for undergraduate business students. Beginning in their freshman year, students will be placed in situations that help them shape their personal values and develop the professional skills that are needed to be successful in the business world. According to the college’s plan, and subject to faculty approval, the Professional Development Program will become a graduation requirement for all undergraduate business students.

Last Edited: 3/10/2008