UC Alumni and co-op students build connections in Chicago

The impact extended beyond the students. Alumnus Michael Frederick, CEAS ’20, who recently relocated to Chicago, valued the opportunity to connect with fellow Bearcats across generations.

“On a personal level, I found the dinner to be very impactful,” he said. “I appreciated the chance to learn from experiences of other alumni, reconnect with my Bearcat contemporaries, and reminisce on my days in the Student Alumni Council. I will always revel in the opportunity to pay my own experience forward and talk with current students to help them gain perspective that enhances their time at UC and in Chicago.”

Events like Dinners With Bearcats strengthen the Bearcat network far beyond Cincinnati. As thousands of students graduating each year can attest, the university’s nationally recognized co-op program delivers real-world experience that sets them apart in the job market. Connecting with alumni in cities like Chicago further builds students’ confidence as they pursue full-time opportunities after graduation.

“As I am approaching my final year at UC and on my last co-op round, wanting to pursue a full-time position in Chicago post-grad, it was so nice to be able to ask questions and connect in person with UC alumni” said fourth-year Interior Design student Kendall Reis, DAAP ’27. “It was a great way to bring the feeling of ‘home’ to this city because of how welcoming and trusting everyone was.”