Keep It Formal With Alumni

You know the power of alumni. Alumni can serve as mentors to help you through your own personal, academic, and professional development. Alumni can offer personal stories, advice, and help both during and after your time in college. Thus, when speaking with or about alumni, be sure to use the right terminology (see below). Personally, I recommend keeping it formal (i.e., alumni, alumnus, alumna). You will impress those you speak with, and seasoned alumni will appreciate your proper language. Try it out!

Alumni: graduates or former students of a particular school, college, or university.

Alumnus: a graduate or former student, especially male, of a particular school, college, or university.

Alumna: a female graduate or former student of a particular school, college, or university.

Alum: an alumnus or alumna (informal!)

Stefano Verdesoto,
External Relations Assistant Director

Find Your Career

My favorite part of being a career counselor and working at The Career Center is helping students and alumni figure out their career and/or major. At The Career Center, we offer various tools and resources to help students with their career exploration and decision-making. And, as a career counselor, I am always on the lookout for articles that offer tips on this aspect of what I do. Recently, the website, Mind Body Green, posted the article 10 Questions to Help You Tap Into Your Purpose, which lists questions people could ask themselves when they are figuring out their path:

1. What’s my hunch about what I should do next?

2. What have I previously dismissed that is something I’d really like to do?

3. Who in my life would be unconditionally supportive toward me as I try to achieve my goals?

4. Who in my life has a strong opinion about what I should be doing?

5. What real world experience could I pursue to give me more insight into my path?

6. Who could I talk to who is already doing what I want to be doing?

7. What’s most important to me right now?

8. What will inspire me to take action?

9. Is there anything I need to let go of that is currently keeping me stuck?

10. What’s the next small, real world step that I see in front of me?

Check out the article to see how these questions can help you find your career!

Nayelli Perez,
Assistant Director

Events for Week of 3/2/15

Events for Week of March 2nd

Zarb Alumni Resume Night

Wednesday, March 4, 2015, 6-9PM, The Career Center

Current Zarb students will have the opportunity to have their resumes critiqued by alumni from the Zarb School of Business. You must bring a printed copy of your resume. Professional dress is highly recommended. Pre-registration on Pride-CMS is strongly encouraged. This event is open to undergraduate Zarb students only.

#HUInternSelfie Challenge Tabling

Wednesday, March 4, 2015, 11-1PM, Student Center Atrium

We're gearing up for the #HUInternSelfie Challenge where Spring 2015 interns can participate and win a $250 Nordstrom gift card! Join us at the Student Center Atrium to get more information, take selfies with props, and have any questions you have about how to win the contest!

Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Information Session

Wednesday, March 4, 2015, Common Hour (11:15-12:45PM), 101 Davison Hall, South Campus

Join the Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences Department for a fun and informative session about careers in audiology and speech-language pathology. Students can meet and hear from faculty, clinicians, and current students in the program and take a tour of the facilities at the Saltzman Center.

Out-of-State Teacher Fair

Thursday, March 5, 2015, 10-3PM, LIU Brookville

Are you interested in teaching outside of New York state? Then join us for our Teacher Fair to meet with out-of-state recruiters and learn more about available opportunities to take advantage of!

Grant Thornton Information Session for Accounting Majors

Thursday, March 5, 2015, 3PM, The Career Center

Founded in Chicago in 1924, Grant Thornton LLP (Grant Thornton) is the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd, one of the world’s leading organizations of independent audit, tax, and advisory firms.  Grant Thornton has revenues in excess of $1.3 billion and operates 57 offices across the U.S., with more than 500 partners and 6,000 employees. 

This information session will center around ‘Grow with Grant Thornton'. GwGT is Grant Thornton’s Summer Leadership Program for sophomore and junior University candidates.  Our Summer Leadership Program is a great opportunity for you to gain insight into Grant Thornton’s professional service offerings and get exposure to several of our Business Leaders, Senior Executives, Associates, and peers.  ‘Grow with Grant Thornton’ is a 1-3 day interactive program at one of our 55 local or regional offices.  During the Summer Leadership Program you will be exposed to Grant Thornton’s service lines which include audit, tax, and advisory.  You will also have an opportunity to interact with Grant Thornton team members and peers.  The Program is designed to continue building your leadership skills and help you identify your own abilities and goals as you prepare for a successful transition from college into your career. Refreshments will be served.

No Major, No Problem

Friday, March 6, 2015, 12:30-4PM, Library Room 246

Do you need help in finally choosing your major? This event will offer fun and enlightening workshops that will allow you to learn about yourself and in the process learn which majors will be the best fit for you.  This event will also feature a panel of professionals and faculty that will share their stories on picking their majors and how it lead to their future careers. Arrive early at 12:30 to have some pizza and beverages before we start.

Save the Date

Spring Career Fair

Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 11-2PM, Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex

Looking for a full-time, part-time, summer, or internship position? The Career Center's Spring Career Fair is open to all Hofstra students of any major and class level. Students are encouraged to attend in order to meet with employers from multiple industries who are looking to hire for a variety of positions. Professional dress is required. A professional photographer will be available to take LinkedIn profile pictures. Please bring copies of your resume. Students may attend the Career Center's Quick Question Hours any day prior to the fair for a resume review or for tips on how to make the most our of your fair attendance!

Etiquette Dinner

Thursday, March 19, 2015, 6PM, University Club

Join us for a unique dining event with a three-course dinner and an interactive seminar facilitated by a certified etiquette trainer. Participants will learn how to properly conduct themselves on interviews and meetings in a formal dining atmosphere, and learn proper networking and conversation etiquette. There is a $10 fee, which includes the seminar and three-course meal. Space is limited; Fee/RSVP can be submitted to The Career Center to reserve your seat.

Prepare for The Career Fair 1-on-1 Sessions – Provided by GEICO

Monday, March 9, 2015, 10-4PM, The Career Center

Join GEICO representatives during their drop-in office hours to practice your pitch just in time for the Spring Career Fair! Students have the opportunity to stop in without an appointment and meet with a representative to practice interacting with an employer. Students will learn:

• The etiquette of introducing yourself
• What topics to focus on and talk about
• Employer follow-up
• How to effectively use your time at the fair
• And more!

Zarb Alumni Mock Interview Night 1

Tuesday, March 10, 2015, 6-9PM, The Career Center

Students will be able to participate in a practice 30-minute interview with a Zarb School of Business Alumnus. Pre-registration on Pride-CMS is required for this event. Please bring a printed copy of your resume and dress professionally. This event is open to undergraduate Zarb students only.

GoinGlobal Workshop

Friday, March 13, 2015, 3-5PM, CV Starr 109

Join the Career Center and MISPO for an informative workshop on how to GoinGlobal, an online resource which provides country guides and advice on careers abroad, international career applications, Visa and related requirements, and much more! International students can utilize it to learn about U.S. Visas and also view career guides on states and cities within the U.S.!

Pride Shadowing Program

Application Deadline: Monday, March 16, 2015 on PrideCMS

Shadowing Week: April 6-10, 2015

We are proud to announce that we are now accepting applications for our brand new shadowing program! If you need help choosing a major or exploring careers, this program is for you! Check out Hofstra.edu/shadowing to find out more! 

#HUInternSelfie Challenge:

Sunday, March 15-April 20, 2015, Instagram @hofstracareer

Are you a student interning for Spring 2015? Do you want to a new internship wardrobe with a $250 Nordstrom gift card? Then all you have to do…is take selfies! Starting in March for 6 weeks, we will reveal a choice of two selfie-photo challenges, then you snap your photo, upload to Instagram, and at the end of the challenge, we’ll choose a random winner for the gift card! Visit Hofstra.edu/HUInternSelfie for more details on how to win!

Events for Week of 2/9/15

General On-Campus Recruiting:

On-Campus Recruiting are opportunities brought right to the Hofstra campus! Employers post job and internship opportunities that students are eligible to apply to; and if selected, first-round interviews occur right on campus at the Career Center. All positions are listed on PrideCMS and require resume submission by the respective application deadlines listed below:

MacKay Shields: Wednesday, February 11th at 11:59 PM

OCR Position for 2015 Summer Internship Program. See PrideCMS listing for desired majors and degrees.

Ernst and Young LLP: Friday, February 13th at 11:59 PM

OCR Position for Emerging Leaders Program. See listing for desired majors, class year, and degrees.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP: Monday, February 16th at 11:59 PM

OCR Position for Elevate: PwC's Leadership Program for Summer 2015, Start IFS Summer Intern 2015, and Winter 2016 Tax Intern position. See each listing for desired majors, class year, and degrees.

McAdam Financial Group: Thursday, February 20th at 11:59 PM

OCR Position for full-time Financial Advisor. See listing for desired major and degrees.

Spring Kick Off

Wednesday, January 28, 2015, 11-1PM, Mack Student Center Atrium

Kick off Spring Semester with the Career Center! Stop by our table to meet the staff, grab some FREE Starbucks coffee, snacks and give-a-ways, and book an appointment on the spot to prepare for your job and internship search!

Risk Management Association Shadowing Program

Application Deadline: February 11, 2015

Undergraduate Junior and Seniors who are interested in a career in banking have the opportunity to participate in the Shadowing program sponsored by RMA in partnership with the Career Center. Includes the following topics:

Commercial Lending; SBA; Real Estate; Cash Management; Consumer Lending; Residential Mortgage; FICO scores; Credit Reports; Home Equity Loans; Retail; Government Banking and Personal Wealth Management.

Site Visits to: Bridgehampton National Bank, Peoples United Bank, TD Bank, Citibank, Friedman LLP, Certilman Balin

Students must submit a resume and an essay regarding interest in commercial banking by the deadline listed above. A total of six students will be selected. If desired, 1 credit can be obtained through registration in Finance174.

Stand Out and Get an Internship: Zarb Series

Wednesday, February 11, 2015, Common Hour (11:15-12:30), Career Center

Open to Zarb students only. Learn how to build your “personal brand” from students who have succeeded in getting internships, to stand out in the application process yourself! Topics include: LinkedIn and social media, networking, business etiquette, interviewing, and resume tips. Food and beverages will be served!

The Washington Center Information Session

Wednesday, February 11, 2015, Common Hour (11:15-12:30), Barnard 201

For over 35 years, The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars has helped more than 50,000 students from around the world gain valuable experience, and set them on a course of achievement, leadership and engagement in their communities. In a recent survey, 98% of TWC interns said the program significantly strengthened their career prospects. Now, their alumni are leaders in virtually every field -- public service, journalism, business, law, medicine, education, and more.  If you are interested in learning what this program has to offer, come to this information session open to all students.

Save the Date!

Grant Thornton Visit

Tuesday, February 17, 2015, 11-2PM, Grant Thornton Manhattan Location

Are you looking to get your foot into the business door? Grant Thornton LLP, one of the world’s leading organizations of independent audit, tax and advisory firms, is looking to help you gain that exposure! Join Grant Thornton representatives on a visit to their Manhattan location to gain an overview of the firm, shadow a Grant Thornton employee, and explore what opportunities are available to you. First-year students/Sophomores of any business major and Junior/Senior Accounting students are invited to attend. Space is limited to 40 students. Transportation and lunch will be provided.

What Can You Do with a Zarb Major? Find Your Career Path Before You Graduate: Zarb Series

Wednesday, February 18, 2015, Common Hour (11:15-12:30), Career Center

Open to Zarb Students only. A panel featuring professionals and students will discuss what career fields you can qualify for based on your Zarb major, and give tips on which internships are the best fit based on your goals. Food and beverages will be served!

Spring Career Fair

Wednesday, March 11, 2015, 11-2PM, Mack Sports and Exhibition
Complex

Looking for a full-time, part-time, summer, or internship position?
The Career Center's Spring Career Fair is open to all Hofstra students of any major and class level. Students are encouraged to attend in order to meet with employers from multiple industries who are looking to hire for a variety of positions. Professional dress is required. A professional photographer will be available to take LinkedIn profile pictures. Please bring copies of your resume. Students may attend the Career Center's Quick Question Hours any day prior to the fair for a resume review or for tips on how to make the most our of your fair attendance!

PRIDE Shadowing Program

Application Deadline: Monday, March 16, 2015 on PrideCMS

We are proud to announce that we are now accepting applications for our brand new shadowing program! If you need help choosing a major or exploring careers, this program is for you! Check out hofstra.edu/shadowing to find out more!

Etiquette Dinner

Thursday, March 19, 2015, 6PM, University Club

Join us for a unique dining event with a three-course dinner and an interactive seminar facilitated by a certified etiquette trainer. Participants will learn how to properly conduct themselves on
interviews and meetings in a formal dining atmosphere, and learn
proper networking and conversation etiquette. There is a $10 fee, which includes the seminar and three-course meal. Space is limited; Fee/RSVP can be submitted to The Career Center to reserve your seat.

Alumni Blogger: My Adventure In The Green Industry

What experiences led you to this position? 

Everything from my senior year of college onwards has led me to the position I am in today. During my senior year at Hofstra, I spent lots of time at the Career Center which really prepared me for scoring interviews and then interviewing well. Right out of school, I worked in the audit department at KPMG for a little over two years. Having a background in audit really provides a great foundation for understanding any type of business. I then worked in private accounting where I was able to gain experience in business management. After my client service work, I spent some time working in internal accounting and then began working as the Financial Controller of DuJour magazine. This was an incredible experience as it was a small company and it allowed me to utilize all of my skills while also learning how to manage a business. Finally, wanting something a little different and closer to home, I came across this role at Gotham Greens. Every single one of my experiences mentioned above has really helped me to prepare for the role I’m in today. If you are an accounting major, I’m sure you’ve heard that “accounting is the language of business.” I’ve learned, it’s so true.

What drew you to working in a sustainable company? 

I’ve always been really healthy and environmentally conscious. I was lucky enough to find the Gotham Greens job posting on Linkedin and even more ecstatic when I was called in for an interview. I had been following Gotham Greens for a while and was a big fan of their products and environmental stewardship. Gotham Greens is a Brooklyn based urban agriculture company founded in 2009 with the mission of growing premium quality, local and pesticide-free produce in cities. They’ve quickly become a worldwide pioneer in the growing urban agriculture industry and are one of New York State’s leading greenhouse growers. Not only does Gotham Greens provide a local and delicious year-round product but they’re also considering the environment while doing so. For example, Gotham Greens’ sustainable farming practices utilize 1/10th the amount of water as traditional soil based agriculture with 20x the yield. Another surprising fact is that even though their greenhouses are located in cities, they still have to combat agricultural pests. Instead of using harmful chemicals and pesticides, Gotham Greens introduces beneficial insects into their greenhouses, creating their own mini ecosystem where “good bugs are battling bad bugs.”   

What particular skills or talents are most essential to be effective in your job? 

Aside from having the accounting degree, it’s really important to be on top of things. I always try to think a step ahead. For example, if I have a deliverable or if I know that someone might request something, I try and be proactive to get everything done before its needed. This prevents last minute “fire drills” and allows people to trust that you are responsible and accountable. Another important skill is resourcefulness. If you can be resourceful at a job, it saves you and the company time and money. I always like to make sure that I am doing things in the most efficient ways.

How well did your college experience prepare you for this job? 

Hofstra has a great career center so I highly recommend utilizing its services to prepare for getting interviews and interviewing. The career center also has a great network. When I was interviewing for jobs, I was put in touch with Hofstra alumni at the jobs I was applying for. It was really helpful. I also felt that I had a great education and my professors were always willing to take the time to help. I also recommend going to your professor’s office hours. It shows a lot when a student takes that initiative and it’s also helpful to you.

Which reading materials or professional associations would you recommend to someone looking to enter your field? 

I recommend reading the newsletter from www.hortidaily.com for your most up to date news on greenhouses and sustainability. I receive their daily newsletter and it keeps me tuned in to what’s going on in the agriculture world. In terms of finance, I like reading the finance section of yahoo. Another perk of working in the sustainable agriculture industry is that reading food blogs can be considered “research.” One of my favorite food blogs is www.tastingtable.com.

What advice would you give to someone looking to enter your career field? 

For someone who would like to work in the finance world in a sustainable company, I recommend having a strong business foundation. Once you develop the business and accounting skills, you can really work at any company. If your ultimate goal is to work in a sustainable business in finance, it may help you to have the audit or public accounting experience beforehand. It’s also really important to network and utilize all opportunities you are given. Go to career fairs, network with your classmates, seek help from the career center, and most of all, be open to new things. Good luck!

Allie Schiffmiller, Gotham Greens

Using Information Interviews and Shadowing to Find Your Career

The best way to explore a potential career choice is by speaking with and/or following someone who works in that career.  So, how do you do that? Informational interviewing and job shadowing are two great options.

Informational interviews help you learn first-hand about your chosen profession by asking questions about tasks, business environment, and educational background.  Shadowing a professional allows you to follow someone in your career choice as they go through a typical day or week on the job and ask questions and observe the work.

Finding a Profession(al)

Finding someone to interview or shadow is not difficult. Ask your parents and your friends’ parents if they know someone you can interview. Ask your professors for recommendations of professionals in the field. Go to your career center: Many maintain lists of alumni and employers who are willing to help in your career exploration.

Next, call or write a letter requesting an information interview or job shadowing. People who like their jobs tend to enjoy talking about them. You compliment the professional by expressing an interest in the career. In your phone call or letter, explain how you found the person you want to interview and request time for an appointment. Emphasize that you want to find out more about the career—you’re not looking for a job. If you’re lucky, the professional you contact may have other colleagues you can interview also.

Asking Questions

Take notes during your time with the professional. Here are some questions you might ask:

• What is your typical workday like?
• What do you like most (and least) about your job?
• What skills/abilities are most important to succeed in this job?
• What is your educational background?
• How did you get started in this field?
• What courses were most helpful to you and which would you recommend?
• What is the best way to get started in this field?
• Do you have any additional advice to help me prepare?

Following Up Your Interview

Review your notes. What was your impression? Did you leave the interview feeling as if you can envision a future in this occupation or were you discouraged—you don’t feel you learned enough about the occupation or the job description doesn’t sound appealing any longer?

Take your thoughts and concerns to the career center staff and get feedback on the next step to take in your career exploration. You may want to do additional information interviews in this career path or you may want to reexamine your goals and find a different path for your interests.

No matter what you decide, send a thank-you note to anyone you interview or shadow. Whether you decide to forge ahead on that career path or find another one, this professional may be a good person to network with when you begin your job search.

Courtesy of the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

Gary Alan Miller, Executive Director