May 07, 2007
The Fifth Annual Albany Review COACH (Count on Alumni for Career
Help) Program was held in the Albany Legislative Building in the
New York State capital on April 25. Six alumni took part in the
event which featured panel discussions and presentations explaining
the inner workings of the state legislature to interested
students.
Speakers emphasized the importance of networking, taking
advantage of opportunities as they arise and being genuine.
Panelist Andrew Grosso ’67CBA, vice president of the NYS Industries
for the Disabled, shared his highly positive experience at St.
John's University. He emphasized that commitment, being energetic,
inquisitive, having a sense of humor, and not being afraid of hard
work are the skills employers seek in job applicants. He advised,
"Be honest and straightforward in everything you do."
Taking a multi-disciplinary approach, lunchtime speaker Dan Wall
’91L, Commissioner for the NYS Dept. of Civil Service, stated that
law school is not a requirement for public service. He also
provided some helpful hints for career-seekers, including his
thoughts on employment trends in the next decade that will
incorporate industries such as education, accounting and
information technology.
In addition to panelist presentations and lunch, the 10 juniors
who attended were also given a tour of the Capital. When asked to
reflect on the relevance of this event, Laila Akther ’08TCB said,
"It was great! I got to know alumni; I didn’t realize so many were
here in the legislative office. Listening to their experiences
helped to motivate me to volunteer, participate in more activities
and figure out what I want to do with my life. I now realize how
important networking is to having a successful future. This is the
best way to network and get to know alumni personally."