Students had the chance to take their first step on the career ladder at The Bermuda International Business Association's (BIBA) 11th Annual College Student Networking Event held at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess.

Approximately 250 students and 200 professionals attended the event, with the focus on speed networking to allow around 110 youngsters to make direct contact with industry professionals. Some even had the chance to sit down and talk with Premier Ewart Brown.

In addition, about 50 students who signed up indicated an interest in technical careers - the first time the event has been specifically geared towards that sector.

"Each year we say it can't get any bigger," said BIBA CEO, Cheryl Packwood. "However, once again, we've grown. This year was bigger than last year. We had 140 students pre-registered going into Friday and at least another 100 signed up during the registration period pre-event.

"Additionally, over 200 professionals volunteered their time as either speed networkers, general networkers, industry exhibitioners, seminar speakers or event logistics." Other activities at the event included three seminars hosted by Expertise Ltd., the Ascendant Group (Belco, Bermuda Gas and Purenergy) and HWP Group, featuring 'Presenting Yourself In a More Competitive Market', 'Reality Check ­ Owning Your Role in the Workplace' and 'Technical Careers'.

"We received great feedback from the industry associations," said Ms Packwood.

"Several were involved for the first time and were extremely positive regarding the quality of interaction and number of students who expressed an interest in their area, specifically in the health fields, such as Massage Therapy Association, Nurse's Association, Bermuda Hospitals Board."

Other industry exhibitors ranged from the Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation, a technical career booth supported by HWP Group, The Ascendant Group, the Bermuda Dental Association and the Bermuda Society of Interior Designers to the Bermuda Bar Association/Law Student Association, the Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies/Bermuda Insurance Institute and the Summer Internship Programme.

The Bank of Bermuda's strategic marketing manager, Clifton Webb, opened the event as keynote speaker and spoke to the students about the importance of recognising and taking advantage of the opportunities available in both education and work.

Students were also invited to 'Bring their A game to the event' as several prizes were up for grabs, with the winners set to be announced later this week during a press conference.

The prizes included 'Top Speed Networkers', 'Most Impressive Professional Look (male and female)', 'Most Participative and Enthusiastic Attendee at Career Seminars', 'Best Networker' and 'Best First Impression of Resume'.

Ms Packwood said: "All-in-all, the event was a huge success and we are already discussing how we are going to evolve it next year to once again take it to the next level.

"Without the support of our membership, Government and other private sector partners, such as the industry associations, we would not be able to provide such a great opportunity for our students."