EPICS Events
EPICS and our SoC partners offer in-person and virtual events throughout the academic year. Attend a workshop, masterclass, alumni/industry speaker or networking event, or alumni panel to refine your professional skills, acquire new knowledge and expertise, and explore career paths of interest. These events are tailored to boost your career development, help you learn about industries, and broaden your professional network.
Upcoming Events
You will find EPICS upcoming events for the School of Communication in the calendar feed. Employers and friends of Northwestern can view all events open to the public on the University’s main calendar, PlanIt Purple.
Workshops
A workshop is an organized event or series of sessions designed to help students with their career development. These workshops typically focus on various aspects of career planning and advancement including networking, internship/job search strategies, interviewing, career planning, and resume and cover letter writing.
Masterclasses
A masterclass is a session led by someone who has expert knowledge or skill in a particular area. Every masterclass has an aim or goal that students will learn or complete by the end of the session.
Industry Connect
The Northwestern community stretches far and wide. With EPICS’ Industry Connect evenings, students can see the direction their Northwestern degree can take them. Experienced alumni and professionals discuss their industry, career path, and offer advice to students in a speed networking format. Each Industry Connect event is focused on a specific industry area that aligns with our Career Communities.
Life After NU
This panel series is for students to learn from young alumni about the transition from school to industry. The goal is for our current students to hear from young professionals about their immediate steps after Northwestern and recent steps in their career. Each Life After NU event is focused on a specific industry area that aligns with our Career Communities.
Alumni/Industry Speaker Events
Speaker events are an opportunity to hear directly from an experienced and accomplished alum and/or industry professional and often include a Q&A. They provide an opportunity for students to hear from industry leaders who share about their insight and experience and offer valuable advice.
Program-Specific Events
EPICS partners with our graduate level programs in MA in Sound Arts and Industries, MFA in Documentary Media, MFA in Writing for the Screen and Stage, MS in Communication, and MS in Leadership for Creative Enterprises to host events specifically for graduate students.
Upcoming Events
- Jan202026
SoC I EPICS: Industry Connect - Arts, Culture, Theatre, & Nonprofit
5:30 PM
601 University Place, Evanston, IL 60208Connect with experienced alumni and professionals from the arts, culture, theatre, & nonprofit sectors for an evening of networking. Meet in small groups, hear their experiences, and get career advice.
- Jan282026
SoC I EPICS: Internship Search Strategies
12:00 PM
2240 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL 60208Internship and job searching can feel overwhelming, especially during the winter recruiting rush, but having a clear plan makes all the difference. This session will focus on preparing for summer opportunities, navigating the busiest application window and staying organized as key deadlines approach. You’ll leave with personalized next steps to help you stay competitive and confident throughout the winter recruiting season.
- Feb032026
SoC I EPICS: Life After NU - Data Meets Design: The Art & Science of Engagement
5:00 PM
How do you capture attention and create meaningful engagement in today’s digital-first world? At the intersection of art, technology, and strategy, alumni are shaping the future of connection through sports marketing, analytics, digital media, and game design. In this Life After NU panel, you’ll hear from alumni as they share their career paths, industry insights, and advice for navigating what comes next.
- Feb062026
SoC I EPICS: Site Visit to Chicago Advertising Career Day
8:00 AM
1213 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60607Ready to step inside the world of advertising? EPICS is covering tickets for a select group of students to attend Chicago Advertising Federation’s (CAF) Career Day —a high-energy, full-day experience that brings together 300+ students, grads, and early-career creatives who are serious about breaking into Chicago’s ad scene. If you want to understand how advertising actually works—and how to get hired—this is the place to be.
Communication Studies undergraduate students are being given first priority for registration. Don't miss out!
This event will include:
-Keynotes that inspire
-Panels that spill the industry secrets
-Networking lunch with agency pros
-Connection to people who recruit talent
-ickets are intended for students able to participate in the full day.Need a ride? If transportation to UIC is a barrier for you to attend, please let us know in your registration. We are exploring options for transportation if needed.
Registration Requirement:
To secure your EPICS-sponsored spot, please submit a brief (2–4 sentence) note sharing why attending CAF Career Day would support your career development.
Spots are limited—don’t wait to make connections, gain information, and prepare for your next career move.
- Feb182026
SoC I EPICS: Life After NU - The Business of Beauty & Fashion Communication
5:00 PM
Curious about careers at the intersection of communication and style? Connect with Northwestern alumni forging careers in brand storytelling, digital strategy, and the evolving landscape of communication in beauty and fashion.