The beginning of each academic year brings a new crop of students either ready to test the waters of the job market or searching for internship opportunities. Fortunately for them they've got some champions in their corner in the form of Ithaca College alumni. And as homecoming weekend approaches, those alums are stepping up to the plate again!
During the 2002-2003 academic year, IC alums assisted the Career Services office by participating in career fairs and networking activities, conducting mock interviews, and offering job and internship opportunities in eRecruiting, the College's online recruiting site.
"Working with our office is a very tangible way for alumni to contribute to the education and success of our students," said John Fracchia, assistant director and recruiting coordinator for the Career Services office. "Alumni more often than not reinforce the things that we teach our students, but there is something about hearing it from somebody who's been where they are. It really resonates."
Keith Beach '93, of Moore Wallace, was particularly active during the 2002-2003 academic year. In addition to making job opportunities available in eRecruiting and at both the fall and spring career fairs, he was the keynote speaker at the annual Etiquette Dinner.
Said Beach, "I secured a position 10 years ago because of a few select individuals in the Ithaca College Career Services office. They left a lasting impression on me that I must put in countless hours of mock interviews, company research, and ultimately personal contacts in order to receive an interview and a job offer. In life, what you give, you receive back tenfold. I chose to recruit at Ithaca for the past four years to give back what I received as a student -- a great opportunity."
Susan DiPace '74, who serves as an alumni board member and liaison to Career Services, was also very active, participating in mock interviews and several networking panels. Said DiPace," I believe, as alumni, one of the most important ways that you can give back directly to students is to encourage, give advice, and help with their career search. It is one of the most rewarding interactions that you will have with a student and one that both of you will remember. Also, remember that you never know where an IC student you help may end up and how important that contact may be to you in your future as well."
The 2003-2004 academic year looks to be no different, with alums already lined up to help out during Homecoming Weekend. First up is Networking 101, an event where five alumni panelists will talk with students about the "art of networking" and also answer their questions. Students will be able to practice these skills over the weekend through events such as the Homecoming Networking Brunch and the Professionals Symposium.
"The upcoming year looks bright, with numerous networking activities already on the busy Career Services calendar", said John Bradac, director. "We are excited that so many of our alumni are willing to share their time, talent, and expertise with our students."
Dates and times for these and other upcoming Career Services events can be found on the Career Services website.
Contributed by John Fracchia
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20030910103537229