The Union of Students in Ireland held their second annual Student Summit in the Mansion House on Dublin’s Dawson Street last week.
The summit was held in order to help student entrepreneurs follow through on their ideas. It offered students the chance to hear from established entrepreneurs as well as giving them networking opportunities within the business world.
“The aim of the summit is to create a sense of community amongst student entrepreneurs,” USI Welfare Officer and event organiser Greg O’Donoghue told The College View. “We hope that people will network, gain contacts and gain experience from other entrepreneurs.”
The summit was opened by USI president Laura Harmon. She discussed how the USI was committed to fostering an enterprising spirit amongst the students of Ireland.“The vision for the summit is to bring students and enterprise together in their own interests to talk about the bravery required and the opportunities out there for students,” Harmon said.
Attendees were treated to a number of panel discussions from a diverse group of successful business people. Speakers included MCD co-owner (and manager of Hozier) Caroline Downey and the owner of Hangar nightclub Eileen Denham.
The event was held in association with a large number of sponsors. Companies sponsoring the event ranged from well established brands like Microsoft and Uber as well as start ups such as recruitment app Jobbio.
“We picked out some key companies, particularly start-ups because it is a student entrepreneurship and innovation event,” said O’Donoghue. “We approached companies such as Jobbio to speak at the event and they ended up coming on board as sponsors so we’re delighted with that.”
Each of the sponsors had a strong presence at the event. Stalls were set up by each advertising their products and services as well as giving away free goods to those in attendance.
In addition to the panel discussions, those in attendance were given motivational speeches by adventurer Allan Dixon and author Patrick Hamilton Walsh. Audience members were also treated to an impromptu rave courtesy of self help dance enthusiasts Morning Gloryville.
John Casey
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