It’s “YURtern” to take the next step towards your future success. They say it’s about who you know, not what you know—right? Pro tip: it’s both. The more you know, both people and insights, the better.
Want insider advice directly from hiring professionals on interview and negotiation tips—ones you can’t just get from a Google search? Want to make connections with like-minded young professionals?
We would say “the best part is…” but there are so many “best parts!”
Your current and future bosses WANT you to participate! It shows you have initiative and want to set yourself up for success. Don’t pass up this opportunity. You never know when you’ll meet someone or learn something that can help you land that next internship or job.
The Summer 2024 YURtern program brought in 360+ interns from 80+ companies, 28 areas of study, and 18 different schools. Each year the program continues to grow – so you can look forward to an even bigger cohort to network with in 2025. See the 2025 YURtern events calendar below!
Thank you as well to these Supporting Sponsors for making YURtern possible in 2025:
May 14 from 3:30-5:00: EMPLOYER ONLY Information Session and Celebration at BeerStyles, this celebration invites employers familiar and new to YURtern. New companies can chat with employers who have already sent their interns through this program and found success, or ask our team why encouraging your interns to attend is a great choice for their personal and professional lives! Previous employer participants: let us treat you to a night out! Register HERE. Presenting Sponsor: Palmer Group.
June 4 from 3:30 – 5:00: Mastering the Art of Networking and Welcome to YURtern! The art of networking can be difficult to learn. Join your peers as we hear from Nick Paoli, Chief Culture Officer at RJ Lawn and Landscape, on crafting your elevator pitch and mastering the art of networking to start off a successful summer. Get a brief orientation of what the rest of the summer will look like and take a tour of our YURtern App! Supporting Sponsor: Zirous.
June 11 from 3:30 – 5:00: Networking Social at Smash Park. Have some fun at one of WDM’s most popular attractions. Take a break from your office, and join us for a patio party! Practice using the networking skills you learned from Nick Paoli, and create long lasting connections with your peers.
June 18 from 3:30 – 5:00: Ask HR Panel at Host Sponsor IMT Insurance. What have you always wanted to ask the person interviewing you? When is the right time to ask for a promotion? What are benefits? Join us for an exclusive expert panel discussion featuring top HR representatives from West Des Moines, as they reveal insider tips and tricks to help you land and thrive in that coveted full-time position or internship. Supporting Sponsor: Baker Group.
June 25 from 3:30 – 5:00: Discover West Des Moines at the Valley Junction Activity Center. The City of West Des Moines invites you to a tour of Valley Junction! You will walk historic streets, learn more about West Des Moines Human Services, and get the chance to shop!
July 2 from 3:30 – 5:00: Ice Cream Social at Raccoon River Nature Lodge. Celebrate the mid-point of summer with activities and free Ice Cream from Home Sweet Cone! Enjoy a summer treat before the holiday weekend kicks off with a bang.
July 9 from 3:30 – 5:00: Back to Basics – the Transition from College to Career at West 48 Balancing college and work is challenging, but well-being is key to success. This session covers ten research-backed strategies to boost both productivity and personal wellness from coach Kristen Economos, owner of Life Skills Launch. Supporting Sponsor: Farm Bureau Financial Services.
July 16 from 3:30 – 5:00: Minute to Win it Games at the MidAmerican Energy RecPlex. Can you handle the competition? You’ve been connecting with your YURtern peers all summer, now it is time to team up and race to win as many games as possible. You might learn some team development and communication strategies along the way, but you’re sure to have fun!
INVITE ONLY – July 23 from 2:30 – 5:00PM: Certifiably Prepared: Certificate Presentation + Celebration – Students who attend 5+ of the 7 previous events will receive additional information about this exclusive post-program event. Host Sponsor: Merchants Bonding Company. Supporting Sponsor: Wellabe,
Join us this summer for a brand new adventure with our Spare Time Exploration Map presented by Spare Time Entertainment! Submit photos exploring these sites through the YURtern guide on the West Des Moines Chamber App for a chance to win gift cards and prizes from any of the merchants on our map. Where will you explore in your Spare Time?
