Ochanomizu University held the alumni, student, and faculty networking event “Alumni and Student Exchange” at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2014, in room 103 of the Main Building. This year marked the third holding of the event. In spite of the cold December rain, the event was attended by 26 alumni and over 50 students and faculty members.

The invited alumni were employed persons who graduated or completed programs from departments including those of other universities between 1976 and 2008, and selected “Consult individually” in the “Possible to visit the university” field of the university’s alumni database (persons working at businesses were those with their year of graduation ending in 7, 8, or 9). Alumni who had attended previous events were also invited. Meanwhile, attending students ranged widely in year from freshmen to graduate students, and the room was alive with excitement as the participants had their appetites tempted by seasonal canapés and desserts prepared by a French chef.

In the survey taken after the event, many highly satisfied responses were received from students, such as “The time flew right by,” and “It was a rare opportunity to converse with the alumni, so I’d like to participate again next year if I have the chance.” It seemed that many of the students sought advice from the alumni, such as on job-hunting. Alumni commented, “As many of the students don’t yet have a definite vision for the future, I coached them by drawing out their possibilities or interests,” and “I asked what worries or confusion the current students might have about job-hunting,” showing how the alumni made a great effort to lend an ear in support of the students. In regard to their reason for participation, many students and alumni answered, “I had a great experience participating last time” or “I look forward to the event every year,” allowing the organizers to once again recognize the significance of the event.

Although issues remain including methods for spreading awareness and reevaluating the event date, we intend to continue the event in future years. We hope to see you there.