the career symposium: a chronicle of innovation and adaptation
written by Shelby Mymko [February 2024]
#logodesign #branddesign #eventdesign #webdesign #marketingsolutions #covid19
Introduction
In 2019, as I embarked on my capstone project in the final year of college, little did I know that it would blossom into a multi-year endeavor that would redefine the Brandon Career Symposium. Over the course of 4 years, from 2019 to 2023, my involvement in the project saw the transformation of a longstanding tradition into a modern, virtual experience that transcended the challenges posed by the global pandemic.
Year 1 [2019]
Capstone Rebrand
The initial challenge was significant, rebranding a career symposium that had been a staple for 34 years. Collaborating with a team of talented comrades, we set out to infuse new life into the event. My responsibilities included the redesign of the symposium’s identity, the creation of a user-friendly website for exhibitor and attendee registration, and the design of a dynamic program for the three-day event.
One of the key innovations aimed at enhancing the student experience was the incorporation of interactive activities. Students were encouraged to engage in activities such as creating short videos answering the question, “What does your future look like?” This not only added a personal touch but also provided a unique and memorable experience for the attendees.
After a successful event, I was invited back to design and market the 2020 Brandon Career Symposium.
Year 2 [2020]
Unprecedented Setback
The challenges escalated in 2020 when, just a month before the event was scheduled, the pandemic forced its cancellation. Despite our best efforts, creating a virtual event proved unattainable, leaving students without the vital information the symposium traditionally provided. The setback prompted introspection and underscored the importance of resilience in the face of unexpected hurdles.
Year 3 [2021]
A Determined Response
In 2021, recognizing the indispensable role of the symposium, I took a decisive stance, declaring, “We can’t let this event not happen again – let’s make it virtual.” Fueled by a commitment to serving students and providing them with essential information, we navigated the challenges of a virtual transition, ensuring the symposium would not be silenced by external circumstances.
Together with the event coordinator and the board, we successfully transformed the symposium into a virtual experience, complete with speakers, PDF classroom activities, and an online portal featuring all exhibitor information through virtual booths.
Year 4 [2022]
Navigating the New Normal
As the pandemic continued to cast its shadow in 2022, the decision was made to persist with the virtual format. Assuming greater responsibilities, I spearheaded marketing strategies, exhibitor management, and the smooth operation of virtual classrooms. This experience reinforced the pivotal role of adaptability and strategic planning in overcoming unprecedented challenges.
Year 5 [2023]
Embracing Transition
In a transformative time for not only the event but for the board, the event took a hiatus. During this period, my duties shifted to casual web and development maintenance as the board resettled.
Although no longer directly involved in the event’s planning, my commitment to its success persists. I stand ready to support the board and their new coordinator, offering assistance and guidance as they embark on the next chapter of the Brandon Career Symposium.
Conclusion
The Brandon Career Symposium stands not just as a capstone project but as a testament to resilience and innovation. From rebranding to navigating the unchartered waters of a virtual realm, the symposium emerged as a beacon of adaptability and has now returned to its glory as an in-person event with virtual additions to maintain accessibility.
As I reflect on this transformative journey, I take pride in contributing to an event that not only empowers students but also serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit required to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
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“I have known Shelby since her time as a student at Assiniboine College and she was a vibrant student leader, both inside and outside of the classroom. When our Board of Directors embarked on revitalizing our logo and brand, we found a partner in a group of Interactive Media Arts students at Assiniboine.
Shelby was the leader of the group and clearly captured our vision in the logo her group designed, our website and event program. It was hard to believe she was still a student at the time and hadn’t even yet graduated from her program!
The Brandon Career Symposium Board of Directors went on to work with Shelby for the next four years. She brought energy, creativity and enthusiasm to everything she did for the event and the board.”