Networking Event for Interns on June 23 in Grand Rapids

On Thursday, June 23, interns will gather in Grand Rapids for a special networking event aimed at helping interns connect with the community, their peers and local employers.

The event is being held by Hello West Michigan through their West Michigan Intern Connect initiative.

Intern Connect Day in the Park is on June 23 at Ah-Nab-Awen Park in front of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Activities include carnival games, volleyball, cornhole and bubble soccer. Food trucks will be available.

Attractions and games will be run by local employers who help plan the event, allowing them to connect with students in a casual atmosphere.

“The Day in the Park event allows interns to meet other early-in-career peers and is especially great for interns at smaller companies or non-profits, where they may be the only young person in the office,” said Cindy Brown, Executive Director of Hello West Michigan.

Some companies participating include Amway, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Meijer, Northwestern Mutual, Open Systems Technologies, Perrigo, SpartanNash, Spectrum Health and Steelcase.

A second West Michigan Intern Connect event called Professional Networking Night is coming July 12 at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. This event is purposely scheduled later in the summer so if interns don’t receive a job offer near the end of their internship, they can network with other employers and learn about opportunities.

Tickets for Day in the Park cost $20 until June 17 and $25 after that. This includes access to all games and attractions and complimentary popcorn and ice cream.

Professional Networking Night is free for interns to attend. Registration will open June 24.