Weekly Report 2: Set Up for Symposium

Over the past two weeks, we have been rigorously preparing for the ISM professional symposium which is happening on Wednesday It is interesting to be an ISM 2 this year because I have so many experiences that I can share with my ISM ones, including how to network, which workshops to pay the most attention to, and the best tips for conducting research. I actually love being asked questions by the ISM ones because it makes me reflect on my purpose and mission while also reminding me how far I have come thus far. 

As an ISM 2, I volunteered to host meet-ups, specifically business-finance ones, and present sessions at the symposium. I am excited to take my ISM journey to the next level via these leadership opportunities. For the Business-Finance-AI meet up, I am working with numerous other ISM twos to contact professionals and plan activities, like a practice technology mock-up and finance pitch in breakout groups. 

Furthermore, I have committed to hosting the professional communication presentation at the symposium in a few days, so I have been working with many other ISM twos to prepare for the workshop. My part is focused on how to be a good presenter, including advice about slide structure, voice modulation, and audience engagement. I also discuss dealing with different types of professionals who may be rude, mute, overly-talkative, or intense, suggesting active listening, firmness while being polite, and clear, consistent communication. I believe that professional communication is often an overlooked skill, so I am glad to have the chance to share what I learned about its importance with the next year of ISM students.

Overall, I am looking forward to having another amazing experience at symposium, and seeing what I can learn and share as an ISM 2 student.