A Job Social

Back in June, I attended one of those Young Professional events at the Birmingham Art Museum. I expected it to be this awkward career fair-like event, but was soon proved entirely wrong. The event turned out to be a full on afternoon party—complete with a cash bar, a spread of yummies, and a bumpin' DJ. The tables consisted of various organizations, graduate schools and businesses. Among these was the Rotaract Club of Birmingham.

I had always heard of the Rotary Club, as I attended one up in Massachusetts during my internship last summer. But there is a clear difference between Rotary and Rotaract. (Rotaract- young, Rotary- old. jk!) But it was more appropriate for me to join the Rotaract because it is comprised of young members, just like you and me. Everyone is just starting in the job force, fairly fresh out of college, in all sorts of trades. 

So, twice a month there is a Rotaract luncheon in which we get a free lunch, shake a bunch of hands and listen to an interesting speaker. It is a great way to catch up with friends, exchange job stories and business cards, network, eat and learn. But what I enjoy most about it is that everyone is in the same boat. It is a comfortable way to immerse yourself in the professional world.

So that is where I will be today—at the Rotaract luncheon. And if you have any this month, you should go, too. You don't have to be a member to go for the first time. And remember, you do get a free lunch—woop woop!