By Jim Eaton
Siena students studying business have been bolstering their resumes this semester by excelling at the National Sales Challenge, participating in finance competitions on Wall Street and selling hockey tickets. Their hard work and success is making employers take notice. Katha Gatto ’14 has logged countless hours of preparation outside the classroom and it’s paying off. “I still have one semester left and feel fortunate to have a couple of interviews and offers already on the table,” she said.
Gatto, Chad Bingo ’15 and Nicholas Stark ’15 represented Siena at the National Sales Challenge, an event sponsored by 18 companies including UPS, Canon, Oracle and Michelin. During the challenge, students participated in real-world scenarios, including a sales call roll play and a speed selling competition.
“Our students were able to establish professional contacts and gained valuable business experience that will prove beneficial throughout their careers,” Mike Pepe ’90, Ph.D., assistant professor of marketing, said. “All three students received job offers after the competition.”
Finance and economics majors competed in the Federal Reserve Challenge, a team competition for undergraduates inspired by the working of the Federal Open Market Committee. The challenge encourages students to learn more about the United States economy and the role the Federal Reserve plays in stabilizing it.
This year’s team included Vincent Crocitto ’14, Nathaniel McDonald ’14, Brian DiCaprio ’14, Matthew Beyer ’15 and Robert Burklund ’14. They advanced to the semifinals of their region and placed in the top six out of 35 colleges in the New York Federal Reserve District. It was the best finish yet for a Siena team. “Our team represented the College well as we beat some of the Ivy League schools,” said Tom Kopp, Ph.D., professor of finance.
Meanwhile, students in a Sales Management class helped the New Jersey Devils minor league hockey affiliate, the Albany Devils, increase ticket sales. The Siena students created sales strategies, identified target markets and developed marketing pieces for the local hockey team. The American Hockey League recently recognized the unique partnership with Siena as a best practice.
“My students deepened their understanding of sale concepts through a practical application,” said Lisa Semmes, lecturer in marketing/ management. “Giving students the ability to explore the sales career, gain confidence with sales skills and build their resumes were all goals of this project.”
Whether they’re succeeding in competitions or sparking increased sales, Siena students are gaining valuable experiences and sharpening skills that will serve them well when they enter an even more competitive arena, the job market.
