With approximately 100 student members to its credit, the newly formed Marketing Student Association (MSA) at UNB is up and running and making headway for what is shaping up to be an exciting year.

Dr. Kirby Shannahan, marketing professor, had the idea of starting up a student marketing group to help meet the needs of UNB students and local businesses, both looking to better connect with one another. From the conversations in his classes, it was clear that students were interested in knowing more about marketing opportunities and jobs available upon graduation.

Dr. Shannahan put the idea out to his students about the possibility of forming such a group. The student interest was overwhelming and he was approached by some of his students who wanted to help champion the new club start-up.

Now, the MSA has an executive in place for 2008/2009. The association has been working hard to plan events for the upcoming year, including guest speakers and many networking events with industry professionals.

“There was a great response from students,” says the MSA’s President, fourth year Business student Veronica Vidalin. “Almost 100 people attended our information session in September,” she exclaims.

The MSA launched its official website (www.marketingsociety.ca) and Facebook group to reach out to even more interested students. The Association also held its first event, a mixer and BBQ, at UNB’s Grad House on October 2nd.

“We really encourage students to get involved,” says Vidalin. “The MSA aims to serve as the bridge between students and businesses with a wide variety of networking opportunities. The association is even getting alumni. They are getting involved and offering their support.”

The MSA is also receiving great feedback from the business community.

“The MSA executive has approached businesses to inform them of the association’s upcoming events, and to great reception,” says Dr. Shannahan. “Businesses and marketing departments are looking to hire new grads as well as offer internships and Co-op jobs. The MSA has a captivating audience of over 100 students - this is a way for those businesses to meet and connect with the students before they graduate.”

While it’s only in its first year, the students have a vision of growth for the MSA that will encompass a sweeping mix of opportunities for the students to flex their marketing muscles and put their academic knowledge into real-world, resume building experiences.

The MSA is currently negotiating a sponsor partnership with the Pepsi Bottling Group. Recently, the MSA and Pepsi worked together on promoting the release of Pepsi’s new product, AMP Energy. The success was realized by both groups and there is promise of further promotions.

Also, the MSA, in partnership with the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce, was proud to host its first Marketer’s Night on November 26, 2008. Francis McGuire, CEO of Major Drilling Inc., and David Hay, President and CEO of NB Power, gave insightful presentations on a range of topics related to marketing and competitive advantage. The event, held at Fredericton’s Crowne Plaza, was attended by approximately 70 students and professionals from within the business community.

Membership to the MSA is free and students can visit the MSA website (www.marketingsociety.ca) to sign up as well as learn more about the executive and upcoming events.