The University of Memphis’ Department of Journalism and Strategic Media held a Roaring ’20s–themed networking mixer, Meeman Mocktails, on Wednesday night in the Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center lobby.
The evening was filled with not only opportunities for all media majors, faculty and alumni to connect with professionals, but also to create a fun-filled atmosphere for all. Writers, editors, photographers and design students came to relax and unwind with their peers.
Students came dressed to the nines and spoke with professionals who sponsored the event or who work closely with the journalism department, including representatives from the Daily Memphian, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the Memphis Flyer, The Commercial Appeal and others. Booths were set up with information and advice for anyone interested in the companies or similar media environments.
For many attendees, the mixer served as an important stepping stone into the fields they hope to enter. Alyah Armmer, a strategic media graduate student, attended to not only network but to form meaningful connections.
“If I couldn’t network [regarding the event], I want to build relationships,” Armmer said. “What I mean by that is getting to know people that I could connect with that could help me in my field, broaden me to new opportunities and build friendships.”
Fitting the theme, attendees were treated to 1920s-inspired mocktails with names like “Golden Gatsby” and “The Hemline,” mixed by student volunteers dressed as old-fashioned bartenders. Guests could also play games to win themed prizes such as candy cigarettes, gold fans and even a copy of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby by having people sign playing cards as part of an ice-breaker challenge.
The event also featured glittered snacks, students dressed as flappers and a photo booth decorated with golden props for guests to use to capture memories from the night. These elements helped students connect, talk about life after graduation and meet new peers across media disciplines. Faculty and administrators were also present to support and guide students throughout the evening.
Public relations professor Taylor Ackerman helped set the event up with the help of student volunteers. She mentioned another opportunity is already in the works for the spring semester.
“The next thing for the department will probably be Pro Week in the spring,” Ackerman said. “It’s networking but with a little more structure.”
The future event will host a variety of activities including portfolio reviews, a keynote speaker and a free breakfast for attendees. It will take place in April with more detailed expected to be shared in March.
Stormi Adams can be contacted at spadams1@memphis.edu.
