SEATTLE – Whether it be for a class exam or an upcoming competition, Seattle University student athletes are constantly preparing. On Oct. 16, 50 Redhawk juniors and seniors came together for a session of career preparation as part of The Redhawk Experience (TREx) programming and in partnership with the Seattle U Career Engagement Office.
One of three career focused events scheduled for the 2023-24 academic year, student athletes had the opportunity to engage with more than 20 employers, including 10 Seattle University student athlete alums, taking part in general networking and mock interviews.
"This was my second mock interview and networking event," said men's swimming senior Blaise Achecar. "I have greatly enjoyed both events. It has been wonderful connecting with the employers, practicing my responses to interview questions and receiving employer feedback."
In addition to the networking and mock interview sessions, women's swimming alum, Stephanie Bayless, '16, now a sales representative at Sherwin Williams, delivered the keynote address. She encouraged the current Redhawks to use examples from their student athlete experience, including leadership, time management and responding to feedback, in the mock interviews.
Greg Sempadian, Senior Manager of Fan Experience, Ticket Sales and Service at Seattle Storm said, "I really enjoyed meeting and working with the student athletes and helping mentor them, give them advice and support for their interviews and resumes. Connecting with them and keeping in touch after is very special because the connections can always help for their future careers."