MB Piland's annual "Career Test Drive" Student Shadow Day March 15
Students from University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Benedictine College join MB Piland Advertising + Marketing for a full-speed-ahead day-in-the-life of a strategic marketing and branding agency.
meeting high demand
MB Piland developed a formalized Career Test Drive day seven years ago when it became evident that many students need a shadow day to understand what their career choices mean.
“For some, it’s a class requirement. Students usually have a general idea of what their major area of study will do for them, but until they have a taste of the real environment, it can be difficult for them to realistically imagine themselves in their chosen profession,” says Martha Bartlett Piland, agency president and CEO. “We take them through an accelerated marketing and branding project from start to finish. We put them in the hot seat with role playing and some tough assignments that push them outside of their comfort zones - just like real life,” continues Bartlett Piland.
While the students can’t learn it all in one day, this opens their eyes to the strategy and planning that must happen - the hard work of solving complex problems - before a glitzy video, logo, or ad campaign can be created.
the selection process
Each year, MB Piland reaches out to colleges and universities across Kansas to publicize the event through social media, in-classroom presentations and outreach to professors and career offices. Students apply online, then are chosen through a competitive process.
“We’re pleased that many of the area universities have multiple students applying. Evaluating and choosing who can attend this event makes our job of selecting participants very difficult,” says Alexandra Reilly, vice president at MB Piland.
The Career Test Drive is held during spring break, so students don’t have to miss class to attend. Since most of Kansas institutions have spring break the same week, it makes it easy for a broad range of students to apply. “I think it shows how ambitious and impressive these students are,” says Bartlett Piland. “Instead of taking it easy on their break, they’re working on their careers.”
why
Hiring talented workforce is a top concern for businesses now and the foreseeable future. For students, entry into the workforce is equally—if not more—concerning. MB Piland’s annual Career Test Drive is designed to plant the seeds for future employees in our industry and in our community.
“It is important to us that we play a role in developing new talent in the field of marketing,” says Bartlett Piland. “This event not only serves the students, but also the business and marketing community. It’s rewarding to us and to the students to share this experience and build a stronger workforce.”
about
MB Piland Advertising + Marketing is a 24-year-old marketing, branding, and strategy firm that improves the health and well being of people and communities by working in education, health, advocacy, economic development, and financial sectors.
The firm has received dozens of local, regional, and international awards. More information can be found at MBPiland.com
