As I walked towards the College of Business lobby, I was filled with questions that only come from attending an event for the first time. Some of these questions included: 1) How many people would show up?, 2) How awkward was I going to feel?, and 3) What if I couldn’t find someone to talk to? All are valid questions and come from a place of wanting to feel included somewhere. Many times, these are the conflicting emotions/questions running through my head when deciding if I want to join an event.
Lost in my thoughts, I realized I had arrived at the meeting point for the Walk and Talk with the Dean event. Right away, I saw a few familiar faces with John Ney (Assistant Professor of Marketing), Presley Arrowood (Director of Marketing and Communication), and Dr. Alex Bolinger (Interim Dean) greeting me with warm words. Feeling I had made the right decision to come to the event, other students started to arrive at the meeting spot. Excited to see some new faces, at 12:25 PM sharp, we departed for our 2 lap walk around the Quad.
The warm sun hit us as we walked out the COB doors. Once outside, our newly formed walking group’s silence didn’t last long and quickly became lively conversations. As I walked and talked, conversations spanning from typical introductions to sharing personal details of one’s life were heard. It definitely helped that it was the perfect weather to walk around and get a few steps in. Once we were on the straight away for the end of the walk, I realized 20 minutes of walking really felt like nothing when surrounded by the best people the COB has to offer.
Looking back, all of those questions I carried with me into the lobby were quickly answered. The room filled with energy and conversation, I never felt awkward, and I left with new connections and insights. Walk and Talk with the Dean wasn’t just an event—it was a reminder that sometimes the best experiences happen when you push past that moment of hesitation.
Why should you check it out? Each Walk and Talk is a chance to connect with fellow students and professors in a casual, welcoming setting—no pressure, just good conversation. Attend three walks to receive a College of Business swag pack, and attend seven or more walks to receive an exclusive Walk and Talk t-shirt! The group meets every Monday from 12:25-12:45 PM in the College of Business Lobby before heading out for two laps around the Quad. It’s quick, energizing, and a great way to start your week on the right foot.