BEYOND THE BOOKS
How Guest Speakers Are Elevating the College Learning Experience In our commitment to providing real-world preparation to our business students, the 2022-23 academic year witnessed a remarkable number of industry professional guest speakers within our classrooms on both the Hattiesburg and Gulf Park campuses. With an impressive tally of 174 documented guest speakers, we saw a staggering 4,797 student impressions. These interactions have proven invaluable, showcasing the importance and impact of guest speakers on the class environment. The guest speakers hailed from a wide range of professional fields, all of which had relevance to the programs offered here in the College of Business and Economic Development. This diverse group of industries offered students a broad view of the potential career paths awaiting them beyond the classroom. Notably, nearly half of the guest speakers were Southern Miss alumni. By inviting alumni back to share their experiences, students are exposed to tangible examples of how their education at Southern Miss can shape their futures. Three-fourths of the guest speakers visited with the students face-to-face, while the remaining speakers connected virtually. The virtual option offered a flexible approach, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling students to engage with guest speakers from across the country. These virtual speakers joined the classroom from Idaho, Texas, Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Louisiana. The impact of these guest speakers on the class environment is significant. Their presence adds a layer of practicality to the theories and concepts being taught by their professors. The guests introduce real-world relevance into the curriculum by sharing their firsthand experiences, success stories, and realistic challenges. They also share valuable insights into industry trends, technological advancements, and the skills required to succeed in their professions. They are looked upon as role models, inspiring students to pursue their passions and achieve greatness. They showcase the possibilities that await students upon graduation, giving them a glimpse into their endless career options with a business degree.
GUEST SPEAKERS REPRESENTED THESE INDUSTRIES: Technology and software Data analytics Workforce development and education Entertainment and media Sports and athletics Pharmaceuticals Government and legal sectors Logistics Hospitality, food, and beverage Economic development Accounting Banking and finance Insurance Retail
As we look toward the future, we remain committed to continuing this tradition, ensuring that our students are fully equipped for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Guest Speaker Overview
48%
of guest speakers were Southern Miss alumni.
4 | College of Business and Economic Development
In our commitment to real-world preparation, we hosted 174 guest speakers during the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters, resulting in approximately 4797 student impressions.
75%
of guest speakers visited with students in person while
25%
connected virtually.