The economy may be flailing and jobs and internships are harder to come by, but as the stories below demonstrate, those who dedicate themselves to hard work and persistence are successful! We've showcased just a few of the Binghamton students and recent alumni who have made smart moves, but if you have a story to tell, let us know! Email Holly Horn at hhorn@binghamton.edu if you'd like to tell your story!
B.A. 10' Political Science & History, Minor in Russian
Laura is a 2010 graduate who is "taking two years on" overseas in Konstantinovka, a small village in the Ukraine, through the Peace Corps. For 27 months, Laura will live, learn, and work within her community overseas, providing educational assistance to those with limited access. Her primary responsibility is teaching English to under-served youth ages 5-17. By teaching English at impoverished schools, Laura is able to share American culture with people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience western culture first-hand. Her dedication and strong record of involvement in international education and politics earned her recognition within Binghamton University, helped her secure competitive internships, and aided in her selection for a coveted Peace Corps position. CONGRATULATIONS LAURA!
How did she do it?
Laura's successes took a lot of hard work and multiple "smart moves." Throughout her undergraduate career, Laura participated in a variety of extra-curricular activities involving politics and advocacy, including Habitat for Humanity, College Democrats, and writing for Prospect Magazine, where she was promoted to Managing Editor during her senior year. Laura interned each summer from 2007-2010 with governmental agencies at the local and state levels, including the Broome County Legislature, Congressman Christopher P. Carney's office in Washington D.C., at the Office of the Attorney General of New York in Binghamton, and was on the Harpur Law Council in the Office of the Appellate Defender in New York City. "I found all of my internships on-line or through contacts I made on campus and at the Broome County Legislature," remembers Laura. Through these opportunities, she found herself becoming passionate about public service and chose political science and history as majors due to their relevance to diplomacy and law. Laura also took advantage of several Career Development Center programs and services as a way to increase her knowledge and polish her skills.
What advice does Laura have for other students?
When asked what advice she has for current students, Laura states, "I would tell a person thinking of serving in the Peace Corps that you should think not about how far you can be away from home, but for how long." She also says it's important to think of how different the lifestyle will be, with unfamiliar foods, a different language and culture, and most likely no running (or hot) water, and to balance these factors against how committed you are to taking the time to truly make a difference in another's life. "If someone believes that they can adapt their lifestyle enough to help others, then I believe they would make a great candidate for the Peace Corps." Laura's international experiences have inspired her to pursue law school, possibly with an additional master's degree in public policy or administration, once she finishes her Peace Corps tour in the Ukraine. Her experiences both in the Ukraine and in Binghamton have provided her with the tools and skills she needs for a successful career making a difference!
Previous Success Stories
Natalie is a recent School of Management graduate who landed a great job as a Sales Resource Specialist at Welch Allyn in Skaneateles, New York. CONGRATULATIONS NATALIE!
How did she do it?
Besides graduating with honors, Natalie was proactive in her career development. Prior to graduation, Natalie sought out and applied for internships and jobs that would provide her with business experience, and got involved in clubs and activities to strengthen her interpersonal skills. Natalie also attended seminars on interview techniques and networked with professors and employers. WAY TO GO NATALIE!
What advice does Natalie have for other students?
Natalie recommends getting involved during college to demonstrate that you can handle responsibility and leadership roles. Natalie was fundraising chair and held an e-board position on her club soccer team, and was a member of different honor societies and school programs. Such involvement shows you are well rounded, know how to manage your time wisely and can handle many different tasks and demands once you are in a professional environment.She also advocates doing at least one internship in your area of interest in order to gain real experience and gauge if you really like and can see yourself in that particular career. It is also a great way to add skills and experience to your resume. Take advantage of all available resources: ask advice from professors, utilize free workshops and seminars or help from peer assistants at the CDC. Do all you can to help yourself be more professional and prepared when applying for jobs.
Lauren is a recent graduate (2010) who is taking a year “on” in the New York City Civic Corps (NYCCC). Through her strong work ethic and dedication, she was able to turn her volunteer experience with New York Cares into a full-time position managing large-scale volunteer projects and programs with one of the premier public service organizations in New York City. CONGRATULATIONS LAUREN!
Lauren arrived at Binghamton already knowing what her major would be. “HDEV – I just knew it was right for me. It’s the major you choose if you want to help people - in what capacity I didn’t yet know,” she remembers. Lauren enjoyed her courses, but wanted to get more involved.
Through volunteering, internships, and work, she remained highly engaged in campus and community service during her four years at BU. From her role as a resident assistant and work with Challah for Hunger, Lauren understood the importance of giving back. She discovered Challah for Hunger, a program bringing students of all races, religions, majors and class years together to break challah bread to be sold in the Union, with the profits all going to charity. Lauren helped market the program to spread awareness, recruit new volunteers, coordinate baking and transport, and collaborate with other student organizations.
All Human Development students are required to participate in a practicum during their senior year where they put their skills to use in the community. Lauren completed her practicum with Broome County Catholic Charities through a project called Citizen Action, an advocacy group representing education, healthcare, and minority rights. “We would lobby at Senate offices against education and healthcare cuts and reach out to the community to raise awareness of these important issues. It was really challenging work but rewarding too.”
“It takes persistence,” advises Lauren. “Find things that you think would be interesting and be proactive in trying to get involved.” Many students struggle with finding their niche, participating in dozens of groups, clubs, sports, or community service organizations sporadically. Lauren understood that higher level commitment and dedication to one cause leaves more of an impact on both the cause, and a resume. “Finding that one opportunity that really moves you and makes a difference may take some time,” cautions Lauren. “You must be willing to do things voluntarily. People are laying off employees who have been there forever – you have to be willing to do things for the experience, not the paycheck.” It is experience that future employers like New York Cares, and even graduate admissions officers will be interested in hearing more about.
New York Cares has built a reputation as the city's leading community service organization, coordinating corporate and citizen volunteer support for thousands of nonprofit agencies, public schools, and other deserving organizations. Each volunteer plays a role in making the city a better place. In 2010, internships with this and other organizations were made possible once again through Mayor Bloomberg’s Fund to Advance New York City, which created the NYCCC. NYC Civic Corps is a partnership with the Corporation for National and Community Service and its AmeriCorps VISTA program. The program matches individuals with local public and nonprofit organizations to help build sustainable-impact volunteer programs. NYC Civic Corps members receive a monthly living allowance, health insurance, educational awards, and many other benefits.
Many public service internships like the NYCCC try to match candidates to agencies that coincide with their interests. Internships really can be integral to discovering a career. “You’re treated like staff as soon as you start, not just “an intern.” They put a lot of trust and faith in you - lots of responsibility - but that allows you to take more ownership of what you’re doing”. Lauren assists with planning and managing major projects with the Annual Events Department. Her projects have included two days of service, one focused on revitalizing schools, the other on parks and gardens, where corporations and individuals dedicate their time to improving the community. She also helped coordinate two holiday drives where 70,000 coats were collected and dispersed to those in need, and hundreds of under-privileged children received Christmas gifts from Santa through a holiday toy drive where they wrote letters telling what they wished for.
These responsibilities have contributed to Lauren’s career success in many ways, allowing her to gain useful supervisory and problem solving skills, as well experience in large-scale programming that she can utilize in the future. “When I complete my Corps hours, I have been offered a full time position as a Project Manager,” says Lauren.
Lauren encourages students to be open-minded when considering service programs. “A lot of people hesitate to apply, maybe wondering ‘How do you live on a stipend?’ Or, ‘Is it too short or too long?’” The most important thing is to have no regrets, and make the most out of any situation you find yourself in. “Do something you are passionate about because you don’t want to miss an opportunity and regret not trying it.” Even if you aren’t sure that a career in public service is for you, programs like NYCCC open up many opportunities for networking and future jobs and internships. “I’d say more than half of the employees at New York Cares did AmeriCorps or something similar. That’s how many got their start, and many work while attending graduate school programs in the city,” explains Lauren. She plans to pursue a masters degree in non-profit administration.
Taking a year “on” provides a chance to gain valuable professional experience and to hone and utilize your skills. Employers may look at your accomplishments and work ethic as demonstrated through your internship performance. These experiences open so many doors; the skills learned during a semester-long internship could develop into a promising career-path.
Kristyn is a 2010 graduate who is “taking a year on” through a Fulbright scholarship in Malta, a small archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea. Her primary responsibility is teaching English to under-achieving youth. Her dedication and strong record of involvement in international education and engagement earned her recognition within Binghamton University and aided in her selection for a coveted Fulbright scholarship. Fulbright is one of the largest grant funding agencies in the country and it is through this that Kristyn puts her skills to use addressing educational inequities in the community. By visiting state schools and a refugee center, she is able to teach English and share western culture with people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn it. CONGRATULATIONS Kristyn!
Throughout her undergraduate career, Kristyn was active in international education. “I actually started out majoring in English” remembers Kristyn. She changed her major only after taking an introductory anthropology course that sparked her interest in world cultures. “That anthropology course is really popular for freshmen, but I didn’t expect it to change my life the way it did.” After taking the course in anthropology, Kristyn was inspired to delve deeper into the subject. She started tutoring international and foreign exchange students through the English as a Second Language department. The program pairs students needing assistance in speaking English with native English speakers who serve as mentors. “We met weekly and I helped with conversational English and writing” says Kristyn. Through this opportunity, she found herself becoming passionate about linguistics and chose Arabic as her language of study due to its wide-spread use and emergence as a key language in foreign affairs and diplomacy.
“The best way to learn a language is to practice it; to hear it and speak it constantly” explains Kristyn. That’s why she participated in an eight week Arabic Language summer study abroad program in Morocco with three other students from Binghamton University. “It was rigorous but that’s how you learn. The culture there is very different, and I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect.” Kristyn soaked up the language and the culture of Morocco. Her trip was the summer before Barack Obama was elected President. “I remember getting in a taxi and the driver said ‘Obama Robama?’ meaning ‘perhaps Obama’? They were interested in American politics and culture…” Kristyn was also interested in the cultural differences in gender roles, which are very pronounced in Morocco. She noted that seeing a woman walking without a male companion was more than unusual to the locals; it was almost unheard of. “My friends and I would be walking down the street and see groups of young boys staring at us; they just aren’t used to seeing girls walking by themselves”.
Also at Binghamton, Kristyn served as an International Intern in the Career Development Center, and as the undergraduate student representative on the Binghamton University Globalistas, a group of faculty, staff, and students dedicated to internationalization.
As Kristyn was preparing for her next steps, she learned of the Fulbright program through her academic department. The program application requires two writing samples, three letters of recommendation, and a strong reason to work in a specific country or region. “You really have to do your research so you can explain why you are a good fit for where you want to go and articulate what you want to do there.” Kristyn chose Malta for two primary reasons: “First, every country has a language component, Maltese is a cross between Semitic and Italian, and my Arabic was a reasonably close fit. Second, I observed during my summer in Morocco, there was kind of an unspoken battle between French and Arabic, the area was a French protectorate before it was independent again and they were not happy about it. Malta is different; they actually asked to become a British protectorate for protection, so being around people who speak English isn’t a bad thing.”
Now serving in Malta, Kristyn teaches English to students of various ages and abilities at Borg Brared’s Secondary School for Boys and also at a Marsa refugee center. The work is rewarding and most of the students are eager to learn. The students are also interested in her American accent. During her off time in Malta, Kristyn works at a refugee center for sub-Saharan African refugees and has found that this is the most challenging and rewarding aspect of her time thus far.
“My first time visiting the refugee camp, I was stunned. As soon as the car door opened I was hit head on by a horrendous stench coming from the large waterway that passed directly in front of the center. Smells aside, the image I stood before is one that I can only describe as something that you don’t think truly exists in reality until it is actually staring you right in the face. Rows of rundown apartments and tattered clothes drying lined the perimeter of the center. As we walked through, people were scattered about – some cooking dinner on outdoor grill-like things, some playing cards, a game of soccer on the debilitated cement square...” Kristyn describes the camp with vivid detail.
When asked what advice she has for current students, Kristyn offers tips such as planning way ahead of graduation, especially if you are interested in international experiences. She stressed the importance of conducting research on countries and programs of interest before applying. “Know about the country you want to work in and make sure it’s for the right reasons!” Getting involved in related activities on campus or volunteering is a great way to show that you’re passionate about it. Along with the ESL department, there are several cultural student groups, as well as local organizations such as the American Civic Association downtown.
Kristyn’s international experiences have inspired her to pursue graduate programs in international relations when she finishes at her Fulbright post this summer. Her experiences in Morocco, Malta and Binghamton have provided her with the tools and skills she needs for a successful career making a difference overseas.
Josephine is a recent graduate (2010) who “took a year on” with AmeriCorps in the Community Action Committee program at IJAMS Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee. Her strong record of involvement was a critical reason for being chosen to work with AmeriCorps, one of the largest grant funding agencies in the country, where she puts her skills to use addressing environmental issues in the community. Through visits to schools in Knox County, she educates youth on ways to improve recycling and composting efforts as well as increase environmental awareness. CONGRATULATIONS JOSEPHINE!
Throughout her undergraduate studies, Josephine remained engaged in environmental advocacy and community activism within Binghamton. “I really focused on my academics in high school, so I was ready to get more involved when I started college,” remembers Josephine. She joined student groups such as the College Democrats and enrolled in Environment and Man/Woman: An Ecological Perspective. Both opened her eyes to the spectrum of environmental issues facing the campus. Along with two classmates and the support of Physical Facilities, Josephine helped bring Campus Climate Challenge, a nationwide student initiative, which challenges campus residential communities to decrease their daily environmental impact by reducing waste and conserving water and electricity. Also interested in environmental issues on the legislative level, Josephine became involved in the Broome County Environmental Council. “I think all the extracurricular activities I did in college definitely prepared me well for my job with AmeriCorps, since it requires so much community outreach and collaboration.”
Before graduating and starting her year of service in AmeriCorps, Josephine participated in a study abroad program in China, where she split her time between environmental education/legislation and teaching English. Through a friend, Josephine found an internship in environmental advocacy with the Wildlife Conservation Society in Guangzhou, China, where she recruited volunteers, translated documents, and assisted in grant writing, successfully earning a $2,000 grant to trace the illegal horn trade in Saiga. Interested in a career in international environmental policy, specifically with China and the US, Josephine took this opportunity to learn about cultural factors influencing environmental awareness in China. “While I was in China, I went to an international youth conference on environment at Tsinghua University, which was basically for students interested in learning more about environmental advocacy in a country where the movement is still very new and young. It was interesting for me because I took Cantonese but the main dialect spoken there was Mandarin, so I learned a lot!”
During her summers, Josephine interned in her hometown at the Suffolk County Department of Environment and Energy. “The internship in Suffolk County I found by contacting the Suffolk County government and asking about internship opportunities”. She assisted in an environmental taskforce that compiled data, conducted research into pertinent issues, and made suggestions to area legislators making policy decisions. “I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the professional staff really listened to what students had to contribute and used our research in drafting grant proposals and considering initiatives”.
Josephine applied to AmeriCorps where she knew she would be able to continue making a difference, and requested a position in environmental education or advocacy. She was placed at IJAMS Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she now works on the Earth Flag program. Earth Flag is an environmental advocacy coalition between the Nature Center, a non-governmental organization, and the local government, with the goal of increasing recycling, composting and environmental awareness in local schools and community centers “I love working with the high school students because I know they ‘get it,’ I can teach them so much more, but the elementary school students are so excited, everything is new and different,” explains Josephine.
Another aspect of her work is assisting with grant-writing for funding to expand programming in schools. Funding for Earth Flag often comes from Parent Teacher Associations at the schools, as well as government and private grants. Josephine collaborates with six other AmeriCorps members working on environmental advocacy, many doing outreach at the same schools in areas of water quality and pollution.
Josephine encourages other students considering applying for internships in environmental advocacy or community development to gain experience through clubs and involvement on campus. “Try new things and show commitment. If you are still interested after trying it out, look for internships where you can get professional experience in the field,” she suggests.
Through her involvement in student groups and community advocacy, as well as internships on campus and in her hometown, Josephine gained the skills needed to pursue a career in environmental advocacy. By taking a year “on” participating in AmeriCorps Earth Flag, she is making a difference in the Knoxville community and giving her career a jump-start too.
Edwin is a recent graduate (2007) who utilized his experiences at Binghamton University to launch his career in law enforcement. Through his determination and commitment, he was able to turn his volunteer experiences with the University Police Department into an internship with Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) in Washington, DC, and subsequently joined the U.S. Marshals Service, where he is currently stationed in Philadelphia, PA. Great job Edwin!
How did he do it?
Edwin emigrated from Sierra Leone with his family in 2000 after a military coup d'état overthrew the sitting government, threatening their safety. Previously, his mother was a prosecution lawyer with the government and sought safety for herself and her family in the United States.
It was a big adjustment, moving to a different country at 15 years old, but Edwin knew that he wanted to finish high school, and was very interested in going into law, like his mother. He chose Binghamton University because of their excellent reputation for getting students into law school, and strong political science department. He soon discovered law wasn’t his passion though. “It didn’t fit my personality, it just wasn’t me,” says Edwin, “I knew I wanted to be involved in law though, and that was when law enforcement piqued my interest”.
Edwin applied for an internship with the University Police Department (UPD) through OCC, but was turned down by OCC because “they were full,” laments Edwin. By this time he was also working as a peer assistant at the Career Development Center and was encouraged by staff to continue exploring opportunities with UPD. He interned on a volunteer basis with UPD for the next two years. “I chose not to do the internships for academic credit because I think you can do more without being held down by class requirements. I did it for the experience, not the credits.”
Edwin started shadowing officers on patrol and just standing in the background and observing. He asked questions and assisted whenever possible. “The officers started to get to know me and see that I was really interested – this wasn’t just for fun – and they gradually opened up about the ins and outs of their work” remembers Edwin. Soon he was able to help more on calls ranging from drunk students getting sick and needing to be transported, starting fights, or arguing with cab drivers, to thefts, to students locked out of their room who couldn’t find an RA. “We also had to investigate every fire alarm that went off.”
By Edwin’s second semester he had discovered his passion: investigation. He was able to get more involved with the investigations, working alongside campus UPD investigators Rossie, and Bush. “UPD investigators were kind of like mentors for me.” Many of the investigations Edwin worked on were related to theft and drug sales or abuse on campus. “People have a romanticized view of what investigations are from all the shows on TV. A lot of my investigative work actually starts online – we utilize social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, and Craigslist to track cases.” During his second year, he was actively taking part in investigations, actually going under cover sometimes (by not representing himself as UPD he could gather more information). “My time at the Career Development Center definitely helped me get where I am today. I was a peer assistant so I did a lot of answering phones, directing students to resources when they stopped in, filing credentials. I also actively helped students search for jobs and internships, which helped me prepare for the real world too. Everyone there was always encouraging. Because of the CDC, I was able to pursue my job with the U.S. Marshals Service,” says Edwin. Edwin also utilized many CDC services to increase his professional network. The Alumni Career Network, job fairs, and employer information sessions all provided opportunities to conduct informational interviews with people working in various law enforcement agencies.
After leaving Binghamton, Edwin attended John Jay College of Criminal Justicel. While there, he took advantage of every opportunity, interning at the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). “Yes, the same NCIS as on TV, but it wasn’t nearly as exciting on a daily basis as what they make it out to be. The media has a way of sensationalizing things.” Edwin explains that the job was actually very quiet; the first major incident occurred on his last day. He understood that he needed to soak in as much as possible. All his patience, research and absorbing of information paid off; the application process for the U.S. Marshals Service was long, including a two-hour interview, physical, drug test, essays, and more, but he was ready. “It was intense,” Edwin remembers, “but not nearly as tough as the training I was about to start”.
Edwin trained in Georgia from April to August and learned everything involved in federal law enforcement, including legal issues, defense tactics, handcuffing, shooting (lots of shooting training), driving, interviewing, and photography techniques. The trainees were broken up into investigative teams and were given details about cases they needed to solve. They had to find witnesses, clues, and identify suspects. “The Marshals have the toughest training by far, and we’re proud of it! Everything is done to the max!”
The U.S. Marshals Service is the oldest form of law enforcement, established in 1789, by George Washington. Every warrant signed goes to the Marshals for review and they work closely with the CIA and FBI. The Marshals Service also runs the Witness Protection Program.
Edwin is currently stationed in Philadelphia at a courthouse. He transports some of the most dangerous repeat criminals in the prison system to medical clinics, meetings with their lawyers, and court. In addition, he is able to execute signed Federal Warrants.
What advice does Edwin have for other students?
"I would recommend looking at internships. It’s important to get that hands-on experience. Don’t be disappointed by rejection; keep at it and work to better yourself. Do your research online before going to an agency, and use your contacts."Jessica is a 2009 graduate with a Bachelor’s in Human Development who "took a year on" in the New York City Civic Corps (NYCCC). Through her strong work ethic and dedication, she was able to turn her volunteer experience with New York Cares into a full-time position managing programming for children with one of the premier public service organizations in New York City. CONGRATULATIONS JESSICA!
How did she do it?
Jessica always loved participating in community service; “My parents had a really strong influence on me in terms of giving back to the community.” Jessica spent many afternoons in high school helping to care for guide dogs for the handicapped. Her early start in public service and love for helping people inspired her to continue giving back throughout high school and explore public service careers in college. After spending two years at a community college in her hometown of Rochester, New York, Jessica visited Binghamton University and fell in love with the Human Development program. After meeting with an academic adviser, Jessica knew BU was right for her.
Enjoying her schoolwork but wanting to get more involved, Jessica applied for a peer assistant position with the Career Development Center during her second semester. “The CDC changed my life!” As a peer assistant Jessica referred students to career advisors for resume and cover letter help and showed students how to utilize resources like job and internship listings posted through the CDC. “Learning how to help students also taught me how to help myself.”
Ready to get involved in a big way, Jessica researched opportunities and applied for service internships for the summer after her senior year. Offered positions at several public service agencies, including one in her hometown Jessica chose the one that was most unique and different from anything she had done before. “I went in with an open mind and I wanted to try something new, something outside my comfort zone.”
New York Cares is the city's leading volunteer organization, bringing volunteer support to thousands of nonprofit agencies, public schools, and other deserving organizations. Each volunteer plays a role in making the city a better place. In 2009, internships with this and other organizations were made possible through allocation of funding from Mayor Bloomberg’s Fund to Advance New York City, which created the NYCCC. NYC Civic Corps is a partnership with the Corporation for National and Community Service and its AmeriCorps VISTA program. The program matches individuals with local public and nonprofit organizations to help build sustainable-impact volunteer programs. NYC Civic Corps members receive a monthly living allowance, health insurance, educational awards, and many other benefits.
Most public service internships like the NYCCC try to match candidates to agencies that coincide with their interests. Says Jessica, “I didn’t specifically request New York Cares, I just happened to be placed there and it worked out!” Internships really can be integral to discovering a career. Jessica assisted with planning and running summer activities for children at local museums and parks, as well as organizing occasional adult and family programs. “I completed my Corps hours and am still with my agency, now working full time as the Community Programs Manager.” Jessica plans programs ranging from tours of museums to culinary arts and nutrition, to environmental education, for children in public schools, homeless shelters, and adoption agencies.
What advice does Jessica have for other students?
Jessica encourages other students considering applying for internships to "go for it!" "Do something you are passionate about because you don’t want to miss an opportunity and regret not trying it." Even if you aren’t sure that a career in public service is for you, programs like the New York City Civic Corps open up many opportunities for networking and future jobs and internships. "I’d say more than half of the employees at New York Cares did AmeriCorps or something similar; that’s how many got their start," explains Jessica. "Not knowing what you want to do with your life is okay!!!"
"Interning is a chance to prove yourself. For me, I was completing my tenure in the Corps and applying for the full-time position at New York Cares and they already knew me, my accomplishments and work ethic and that definitely helped me get the position." These experiences open so many doors; the skills learned during a semester-long internship could develop into a promising career-path.
Kristyn is a senior, graduating with a dual-degree in Linguistics and Arabic. She has recently been awarded a highly-competitive Fulbright Scholarship that will allow her to spend next year studying and teaching English in Malta, a small country located in the Mediterranean! CONGRATULATIONS Kristyn, that’s incredible!
How did she do it?
The Fulbright scholarship Program is an international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Its primary goal is to improve mutual understanding among nations through cultural exchange. After learning about what the Fulbright Scholarship offered students- the possibility to study in one of 140 participating countries and English teaching assistantships- Kristyn decided that this was an opportunity she would strive to achieve. Ultimately, there were some key things that inspired her to apply: her major, her growing desire to learn more about cultural diversity, and her flourishing interest in the related organizations and activities in which she was already actively involved.
Kristyn has participated in many activities during her time at Binghamton which demonstrate her ability and desire to work with other cultures. Through the English Conversation Pairs Program she meets with non-native speakers outside of the classroom to help them develop their conversational skills and knowledge of American culture. Being a part of the Binghamton Globalistas and her internship as the International Engagement Intern for the Career Development Center has further enhanced her cross-cultural interests. Fulbright Scholarship candidates must be motivated and show qualification for studying and teaching abroad. Kristyn says that her experience as a Teaching Assistant with Binghamton’s English as a Second Language department, definitely contributed to her qualifications for the Fulbright Scholarship to Malta.
“Why Malta?” you ask? Kristyn was fascinated by how, due to its location, the Maltese language combines Arabic and Italian dialect. Since she is studying Arabic and passionately enjoys learning about the development of language and culture, she felt Malta was an intriguing and appropriate destination for her. Her curiosity and interests have really been a driving force in her success!
In addition to her active participation in language and culturally diverse organizations, Kristyn utilized the CDC’s resources to help her in her journey toward becoming this scholarship winner. She feels that attending counselor-on-call hours and using the CDC’s resume writing resources, really helped her “sell herself” in her resume- the most important indicator of who she is, since there are no in-person interviews once an application leaves Binghamton University.
What advice does Kristyn have for other students?
“Get involved! That is the most important thing you can do. If you have many different experiences to build off of, you can truly discover where your interests lie!”
"Use your resources - whether they be faculty, staff or friends. Talking through your thoughts with others will help you to both focus your own ideas as well as learn about how others may be able to help you. My decision to apply to Malta as the country of interest for my Fulbright started over a cup of coffee with a friend at the fountain!"
“Even if it’s a stretch, go for it! I knew that the Fulbright Program was very competitive but I also knew that if I worked really hard on preparing a quality application that stretch would become more of a real possibility. It took a lot of time to prepare my application but that time and concentration has definitely paid off and I am thrilled with the results!”
Max is a junior at Binghamton University, majoring in Finance and Entrepreneurship. His smart moves landed him an internship with UBS Securities, LLC and he is currently starting up his own business! GREAT JOB MAX!
How did he do it?
Max began taking extra steps to ensure his future. He started studying finance on his own time to get a better understanding of current events, began reading the Wall Street Journal, attended finance society meetings, and attended financial workshops. Along with all these extra steps, he also began using the Career Development Center's resources. His resume and cover letters were constantly being revised to ensure that they were the best that they could be. He also scheduled mock interviews with the CDC and networked with Binghamton alumni.
Along with taking advantage of the resources that the CDC provides, Max dedicated plenty of time to his classes. A finance professor noticed his hard work and recommended him for a highly-selective internship with UBS Securities, LLC, which he has right now! Max has set the bar even higher for himself by using his business know-how to open his own sandwich shop, which will hopefully be up and running in the Fall of 2010.
What advice does Max have for other students?
"Work hard in all of your classes and apply what you learn to the real world. Start networking as early as possible and constantly update your resume and cover letters. Do your own outside research in your field of study to gain more experience, for example, read the Wall Street Journal, join the Finance Society or related clubs to your major.”
Brooke is a senior at Binghamton University, majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Law. Her smart moves landed her an internship with the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, in Washington D.C! GREAT JOB BROOKE!
How did she do it?
In addition to dedicating much time and effort to her course work, Brooke has also applied herself in many different activities at Binghamton University. She was an active participant on the track team and feels strongly that her time spent as a BU athlete has helped teach her the meaning of hard work and perseverance! In addition, Brooke wrote op-eds for Binghamton’s Pipe Dream. This experience helped her improve upon her writing skills and allowed her to express her creative side. She was encouraged to use her knowledge of world events and current issues and relate it to us as students by thinking on her toes and writing what she felt would be a strong piece. This past fall, Brooke had an internship with the Speaker of the House where she enthusiastically pursued any opportunity that would help her learn more about how things work, including clerical work, helping out at important events, working with policy advisors, and lending a hand in the press office. Brooke has also taken advantage of a number of CDC programs to help build her skills. She says that the CDC's mock interviewing program was the most helpful in preparing her for this internship and also feels that seeking input from the CDC counselors is a great resource as well!
What advice does Brooke have for other students?
“Don't go in [to college] with the expectation that what you set out to do as a freshman will be what you want to do as a senior.”
“I think that what’s key is allowing yourself to be inspired by different things and following them through by finding different opportunities. Be sure to utilize the resources here at Binghamton, especially in the CDC, to help guide you in determining the best route to achieving your goals.”
Grace is a senior double-majoring in Graphic Design and Economics who has made some successful “smart moves” which have led to several excellent opportunities in her desired field of Digital Design. NICE WORK GRACE!
How did she do it?
Grace has kept busy, not only by dedicating herself to academics, but also taking advantage of the many opportunities on the Binghamton campus to develop her skills and explore her many career options. Networking has been very important to Grace’s success – she landed two freelance positions by making use of her connections with friends and family. In addition, she took advantage of many Career Development Center resources, including attending programs such as “Why We’ll Hire ‘Any Major’,” “What Do I Say to an Employer at the Job & Internship Fair?” and participating in multiple practice interview programs. In addition, Grace has become well acquainted with CDC’s Quick Reference Guides and used them for guidance with everything from writing excellent cover letters to identifying transferable skills. Grace’s hard work has also begun to pay off with interviews for full-time positions with well-known organizations. And it doesn’t end there … Grace is still planning on making use of the Alumni Career Network as a starting point for conducting informational interviews with professionals in her field and continuing to use eRecruiting in creative ways to connect with recruiters. WAY TO GO GRACE!
What advice does Grace have for other students?
“My advice would be to keep an open mind, network, see opportunities where others don't and take advantage of them to build up your experience. Just be sure you are able to find a good balance between schoolwork and the career-advancing opportunities.
“Also, don't limit yourself. Many companies in other industries have departments that can utilize your skills and experience as well; don't just search within one specific industry. Be sure to get in touch with alumni through the resources at CDC as well, as they can help guide you and perhaps get your foot in the door!”
Kelsey is a senior majoring in English literature and minoring in art who recently landed a summer editorial position with Random House. CONGRATULATIONS KELSEY!
How did she do it?
Kelsey kept in constant touch with advisers in Harpur Academic Advising, the English department, and the Career Development Center ever since her freshman year. It was from the help of these advisers and her love of reading, that she realized she wanted to eventually work in publishing. Kelsey also sought out experiences in journalism and publishing through both Pipe Dream and Binghamton's Prospect Magazine. "One of my most important decisions was when I registered for the English department's internship program where I gained invaluable experience proofreading and designing for Global Academic Publishing. I was thrilled to learn that illustrations I designed at my internship will be printed on the cover of a book of poetry."
Kelsey also took advantage of all the Career Development Center has to offer, attending various programs, participating in practice interviews and meeting with staff on multiple occasions to be sure she was headed in the right direction. WAY TO GO KELSEY!
What advice does Kelsey have for other students?
"I was surprised when the people who interviewed me at Random House expressed a lot of interest in my comic strips. I think that goes to show that you should demonstrate outside interests and commitments that showcase different aspects of your personality. For example, if you have sympathy for the environment, start a recycling or composting initiative. It is also vital to stay on top of deadlines and to always ask questions if you are confused."
Melissa is a junior majoring in anthropology who just landed a fantastic internship with a top financial firm. One might think "An anthropology major in a financial firm?" but as it turns out, her knowledge and skills are a great match for organizations looking to enhance their globalization efforts. CONGRATULATIONS MELISSA!
How did she do it?
When applying for internships, Melissa didn't restrict herself to opportunities specific to anthropology. Instead, she branched out to a variety of opportunities, even some that seemed out of reach. Melissa spent time revising her resume, networking, and preparing for interviews by thoroughly researching the organization and honing her skills. But additional preparation and skill development began long before with her involvement in activities outside the classroom, such as being a mentor to a local student through the Johnson City Mentor Program. WAY TO GO MELISSA!
What advice does Melissa have for other students?
"My advice is to take risks. There are so many stories circulating of people not getting jobs during this time, but there are plenty of success stories. A major can sometimes feel limiting, but if you believe in your ability and use the Career Development Center to build your skills and resume, that will come through to future employers."
Niko is a senior accounting major whose smart moves landed him a great full-time position with a mid-size accounting firm. CONGRATULATIONS NIKO!
How did he do it?
Niko made it a priority to stay focused, through whatever distractions arose - and there are many on a college campus! He also made sure he had supporting experience through out-of-class activities such as an internship, part-time job, and involvement in student groups. And Niko made sure he took full advantage of all the resources that Binghamton University has to offer in regards to career development, participating in numerous events, including resume critiques, networking, professional dining and etiquette, preparing an elevator pitch among countless others. These events taught him how to conduct himself professionally in job fairs, interviews, and networking events. Another step Niko found essential is having a support system. "It is very easy to get discouraged, so I found a support system by networking with alumni and recruiters as well as close friends and family." WAY TO GO NIKO!
What advice does Niko have for other students?
"Among all the steps that I have taken, the most essential step was believing in myself. It is human nature to compare yourself to others, but when you compare yourself to yourself, you do not feel inferior or prideful. So, do not compare yourself, create your own path to success."
Shannon is a human development senior who recently received not one, but TWO job offers for full-time positions with a non-profit organization. CONGRATULATIONS SHANNON !
How did she do it?
Aside from working hard to keep her grades at the top of her class, Shannon honed skills and gained significant experience in a variety of settings including internships, volunteering, and part-time and summer employment. In preparation for her job search she met repeatedly with counselors in the Career Development Center to review her resume and cover letters, as well as to prepare for interviews. After her interviews, she promptly sent a thank-you to the interviewers - a smart move that earned her a second interview. One week after her interview she called to check in, reinforcing her interest in the position. Now she has a great job lined up with excellent benefits. WAY TO GO SHANNON !
What advices does Shannon have for other students?
"Be aggressive. Get opinions on your resume and visit CDC for a review. Dress and act professionally. And no matter what, send a thank-you letter - it could be the deciding factor that will set you apart from other candidates."
Andrea is a sophomore English major whose "smart moves" really paid off when she was offered a fall internship in government & politics that she identified through CDC's Academic Internship Program. CONGRATULATIONS ANDREA!
How did she do it?
Andrea used multiple smart-moves strategies to achieve success. Beginning in her freshman year Andrea began increasing her knowledge and building skills by attending a variety CDC programs on topics ranging from cover letters to etiquette, to interviewing. She also met with CDC staff to discuss her personal goals. After attending an academic internship advising session, she met with career counselors to review her resume and work on interviewing skills, then applied those skills in a mock interview she scheduled through the XCel Center . "Through the whole process I remained tenacious, determined and persistent. I realized the internship would be a great resume booster and remained relentless in my pursuit." WAY TO GO ANDREA!
What advice does Andrea have for other students?
"Start the job/internship-search process early! If there is something you really want to do, always give your best, stick with it and pursue it aggressively."
Jennifer is a sophomore accounting major who, so far, has won an award and has been accepted to two highly-competitive summer leadership development programs, with more interviews scheduled. CONGRATULATIONS JENNIFER !
How did she do it?
She made multiple smart moves, including keeping her grades up, getting involved with campus groups, volunteering, networking with employers at the Job & Internship Fair, attending employer information sessions coordinated through CDC, utilizing CDC resources for resume and cover letter writing and reviews, and participating in an internship. Whew! On top of that, she's remained very organized so she doesn't miss deadlines and cool opportunities. WAY TO GO JENNIFER!
What advice does Jennifer have for other students?
"Meet people every day, be optimistic and friendly, find a mentor - upperclassmen can help guide you. Be sure to get involved with things like organizations and/or teams so you gain more experience working in groups. Get a job - combining that with other activities and classes helps you to manage your time better. And talk to the people who can help you, like your professors, counselors, and advisors."
