By Annalisa Purser, communications specialist, University Marketing & Communications
What to expect
“Some people come knowing exactly what their goals are, but most people come to figure that out,” Matthews said.
One college student with dreams of becoming a photographer was able to score a Pulitzer-winning mentor. An elementary teacher was able to get the help she needed to send truckloads of school supplies to Africa. Others have started businesses and non-profits while others have chosen to pursue “fun” goals like family vacations or skydiving.
“It’s been incredible to see what happens when people have a safe environment to think about their dreams and then get some encouragement to go after them,” said Matthews. “That’s why we’re so excited to bring the BIG Dream Gathering to the University of Utah.”
The University of Utah Career and Professional Development Center is hosting the “BIG Dream Gathering” Tuesday, Oct. 24, in the Union Ballroom, 6:30-8 p.m. The free event provides a safe and encouraging environment for people to think about their dreams and ideas, write them down and get help making them a reality.
The event was developed by Mitch Matthews, best-selling author, keynote speaker and success coach. According to the Big Dream Gathering website, the idea started in 2006 when he hosted friends and family in his home to share their dreams and help each other achieve them. Since then, the concept has become a movement that has made its way to college campuses across the country.
Recently, he has led gatherings at the University of Wisconsin, Purdue, Truman State, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa.
“This concept aligns perfectly with our mission of helping students reach their dreams,” said Lindsey Kass-Green, assistant director for programming in the Career and Professional Development Center. “Our services are designed not only to help students land a job after graduation, but also to help them explore their passions and find experiences that help them grow into the person they want to be. We are thrilled to be able to bring the Big Dream Gathering to our campus to help students, faculty and staff take the first step in reaching their dreams.”
The event starts with a keynote given by Matthews. He will share the story of the BIG Dream Gathering and provide four key strategies for clarifying goals and building a plan to achieve them. All in attendance will have the opportunity to post their dreams and encourage others.
Registration begins at 6:15 p.m., and the first 100 people to arrive will receive a free copy of Matthews’ best-selling book, “Ignite.” The Career and Professional Development Center will be scheduling appointments for students after the event so they can begin to put their passions and ideas into an individualized life plan.
The event is made possible through sponsorship from American Family Insurance.