The Kappa Beta Delta (KBD) Business Club is equipping students for life after graduation through its ambitious Level Up Your Career series this spring. Open to all NHCC students, the five-session job readiness program transforms the student experience through professional development opportunities typically reserved for four-year universities.
This semester, club members are also gaining hands-on consulting experience by preparing to develop a marketing plan for the Rotary Club of Maple Grove, giving students a chance to apply classroom knowledge to a real community partner.
Recent Highlights
On February 9, KBD transformed the CBT atrium into a professional photo studio, providing free headshots to dozens of students building their LinkedIn profiles. Club officers coordinated with a professional photographer to ensure every participant left with a polished image ready for their job search.
The club also welcomed Ambrose R. Russell, Founder and Executive Director of The Inner Hero Organization and recipient of the 2024 Minnesota Ethical Leadership Award. Russell shared insights on leadership, professional ethics, and building a purpose-driven career with club members.
Professional Presence in 2026
On Monday, February 23, KBD welcomed Carolyn Halbur for a session on modern professional attire and the psychology behind first impressions. A Maple Grove-based fashion stylist and entrepreneur with over 30 years of industry experience, Carolyn helped guide students through the nuances of dressing for success in today's evolving professional landscape.
The definition of 'professional dress' has shifted significantly in recent years. Whether preparing for an internship, a first job, or building a personal brand, understanding how appearance influences mindset and perception is a critical career skill. Carolyn shared her expertise on finding a personal style that balances comfort with professionalism.
Upcoming Career Preparedness Events
March 23: Interview Prep (CBT 179)
April 13: LinkedIn Workshop Peer Review (CBT 162)
April 20: Interview Roleplay (CBT 179)
About KBD Business Club
Officially approved by the NHCC Student Senate in Spring 2025, KBD is led by a full slate of student officers: President Noah Plahn, Vice President Juan DeLeon, Director of Marketing Norma Soriano, Service and Outreach Lead Abdirahman Abdulle, Chapter Treasurer Exocee Bulonza, and Secretary of Records Muna Wazwaz. Plahn and DeLeon have secured multiple guest speakers this semester through professional networking. Club members are also gaining hands-on experience by planning to develop a marketing plan for the Rotary Club of Maple Grove. The job readiness series continues this spring with sessions on professional dress, interview prep, and LinkedIn optimization. All NHCC students are welcome.
Submitted by Brady Prenzlow, KBD Business Club Advisor