A year-round program is helping college students build connections in Lincoln, with the goal of encouraging them to stay after graduation. Campus LNK combines career resources, community activities and opportunities to meet other students and local employers.
Speaking on KLIN’s LNK Today, program coordinator Erin Norris said the effort encourages students to discover life beyond their campuses. “I think that they will find that they are valued here and they are wanted here and there’s a lot of opportunities,” Norris said.
The Lincoln Partnership for Economic Development program, formerly known as MyTern, began as a summer experience for interns. Norris said it is now in its second year of year-round programming, allowing organizers to reach students during the fall and spring semesters.
Last summer, 530 students representing 37 employers participated. Among interns who responded to a survey, 77% already attended college in Lincoln and 71% were juniors or seniors, Norris said.
Intern Caydence Corman said the program helps students find opportunities they might otherwise overlook. “And so I feel like Campus LNK really provides a one-stop shop for every student,” Corman said. “We highlight all different things around the city that typically you wouldn’t find yourself.”
A newsletter distributed every two weeks highlights local events, jobs, internships, career resources and volunteer opportunities. Students can also sign up for an online digital passport offering rotating discounts at local businesses without downloading an app.
Organizers are also creating opportunities for students to connect in person. Corman said a recent gathering near Nebraska Wesleyan University drew about 40 students from Wesleyan, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Southeast Community College.
Lincoln Chamber of Commerce President Jason Ball said those experiences can play a role in retaining graduates. “If we’re not introducing them to some of the businesses and philanthropic opportunities and entertainment opportunities that are here in Lincoln we’re risking losing them,” Ball said.
Ball said Lincoln businesses provide valuable work experiences for interns, while connections with peers and the broader community can make students more interested in pursuing careers locally.
Students and employers can find program resources, newsletter registration and additional information at PlaceToBeLNK.com.