Students from Ithaca College’s School of Business were introduced to representatives of some of the biggest companies in New York City during the spring 2016 “Meet the Firms” trip.
The annual excursion is designed to introduce business students to internship and employment opportunities and expose them to different career options.
From March 30-April 1, 24 students had on-site visits with representatives from eight companies and organizations – Indeed, Geometry Global, Bloomberg, City Year, CBS Consumer Products, Modell’s Sporting Goods, Madison Square Garden and Macy’s. The students also attended a networking panel and reception with IC alumni working in New York.
Annyelica Diaz, a senior business administration major, began the trip thinking she would pursue a career in human resources. But after visiting some of the firms, she became aware at the multitude of options available to her.
“Visiting companies like CBS and Modell’s really gave me a much broader perspective,” said Diaz. “It opened up a new perception in terms of what you can do within management.”
Paula Perna, external relations program director for the School of Business, credits the event’s success to the involvement of IC alumni. Five of the eight businesses visited had alumni as representatives, and five of the six people on the networking panel were alumni.
Several students said that their interactions with alumni were helpful as they prepare for life after graduation.
“I enjoyed hearing from young alumni who explained what they thought were the most important things to be focusing on as rising juniors and seniors,” said Olivia Weldon, a junior majoring in business administration.
Zachary Myers, a senior business administration major, went on the trip for a second time after earning an internship with one of the companies he visited last year. He found the opportunity to network and have personal conversations with business representatives invaluable.
“Even if you don’t land anything, you still have that connection,” said Myers.
Students interested in participating must have a 3.0 or greater G.P.A. and submit an application, which includes an essay explaining their motivation for going. They are also required to provide their resume, which is sent to the firms in advance.
In preparation for the trip, students attend professional development training sessions. They also research each firm and prepare questions for the representatives.
The spring “Meet the Firms” trip is for marketing, management, international business and legal studies students, while one in the fall provides similar opportunities for those studying accounting and finance.