On this episode, Nikki interviews Brooke Kraft, Vice President of Talent Management at VGM Group, Inc., where she explains the job search and hiring process from an HR perspective. Kraft outlines VGM’s recruiting lifecycle: identifying the need through preparation/job analysis, creating legally sound job descriptions and candidate-attracting job posts, choosing where to advertise, reviewing applicants, conducting screenings, interview stages, and making offers. Finally, Brooke advises new grads to search frequently, stay open-minded about titles, prepare authentic interview examples, and research the company.

On this episode, Nikki interviews Patrick Luensman, director of the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at the University of Northern Iowa and co-owner of the Grid Lounge in Cedar Falls, about entrepreneurship. They discuss why entrepreneurship is easier when young and the bountiful number of supports available to those wishing to start their own business. Patrick provides three pieces of advice to anyone wanting to start a startup: choose a group to help, learn their needs and feelings, and talk to them.

On this episode, Nikki interviews Tori Labernik, a 2017 UNI alum, with a communications major and psychology minor. Tori begins by describing her career path from Target as an executive team lead, to admissions recruiting at Cornell College and later Central College. Most recently, she joined Pella the talent acquisition team at Pella Windows and Doors and now focuses on campus recruiting. Tori explains what stands out at career fairs: leadership and involvement, strong communication, curiosity, company research, and unique questions. She advises students to research 5–7 employers, use career services for resumes and mock interviews, dress professionally, bring paper and digital resumes, deliver a clear elevator pitch, follow up via LinkedIn or email, and communicate honestly about interest their interest.