By Regina Stracqualursi ’15
The Marcelle Athletic Complex was packed on Tuesday as hundreds of Siena College students made their way through the annual Career, Internship, and Graduate School Fair.
The event takes place each spring as an opportunity for graduating students to prepare for life after Siena and gain the experience of talking with prospective employers and graduate school representatives. Several of the recruiting companies also have internship positions available for students to gain professional experience while they are still in college.
"By attending the Fair, students have the opportunity to communicate with a variety of employers and engage in conversations that will enable them to expand their understanding of the company and different positions they offer. These conversations not only expand their network but have the potential to lead to interview opportunities and offers," said Siena College Assistant Director for Employer Relations Ashley Dwyer '08.
As someone who is not entirely sure what she wants to do after graduation, English major Ali Mesick ’15 decided to attend the fair to learn what kind of opportunities exist for a student pursuing a liberal arts degree. After attending this event, Mesick is confident that her English major will serve her well in the future.
“Going to the Career Fair gave me more ideas about what’s out there,” said Mesick, noting that she learned about opportunities that would allow her to use her English degree. “It was reassuring to talk to companies’ representatives who also studied English to see how they have put their skills to good use in a career.”
Roughly 100 organizations were in attendance, including more than 25 represented by Siena alumni. Julia Sokolohorsky ’12, a former marketing major returned to campus to recruit Siena students for internship positions with St. Jude’s Research Hospital.
Sokolohorsky became involved with St. Jude’s Research Hospital while she was an undergraduate student through her involvement with Delta Sigma Pi. She was hired as an intern during her senior year at Siena. That experience and the connection with a fellow Siena Saint launched her career.
“I wouldn't be where I am today without networking with Siena alumni,” said Sokolohorsky ’12. “The foundation of my career and involvement in the Albany area is primarily due to Siena alumni and connections I've made.”
Tapping into that active alumni network is one reason why students of all majors and class years attend this event. Although she is not graduating this year, English major Margie Baxter ’16 felt it was important to attend to begin making connections.
“It’s important to network with Siena alumni and prospective employers because they will help you get your foot in the door for great opportunities,” said Baxter. “Alumni are able to relate to one another because they have an understanding of the types of skills that are taught at Siena.”
Siena's Career, Internship and Graduate School Fair was covered by the Albany Times Union. Click here to read the article.
