Posted on

Standing out in the Crowd: The Art of Networking

When asked the best way for someone to break into a given career, the typical response is “It’s all about who you know.”

Knowing people is undoubtedly central to success. Only one problem: most of us are not sitting at home with a comprehensive list of close friends who are high up execs in the particular career field we are pursuing. So what to do? Network. Network. Network. Networking means reaching out to people you already know AND forming new connections with various professionals.

One first (very simple) step in networking is developing a professional online presence through LinkedIn. This social media platform provides a space for you to list your experience/accomplishments and serves as a point of reference for potential employers. In addition, as you make online connections your visibility increases. Essentially, this lays the ground work for networking.

While a virtual presence is pivotal, the bread and butter of networking remains in-person interactions. Career Fairs mark one of the best platforms for college students to connect with professionals in-person, as they attract a variety of professionals who are there to engage in dialogues with undergrads.

So, how do you stand out in a sea of college students at Career Fairs?

  • Do your Research: Before the fair, look at the list of companies who will be represented. Choose a few companies that peak your interest and research them online.
  • Bring Materials: Have business cards printed and bring them. This is a great way to stand out after the event ends. Also have copies of your resume handy, in case an employer asks.

Also, check out GradtoGreat.com’s “15 Ways to Make a Good Impression at Formal Events” for more tips!

Upcoming Career Fairs:

  • Holy Cross Fall Career Fair: Wednesday, September 26th, 12-3pm in Hogan Ballroom (For a list of employers, check here)
  • Liberal Arts Recruiting Connection: Friday, November 2nd 1-4pm in the Empire Ballroom at the Courtyard by Marriott Boston Tremont Hotel (For more info, check here)

Let the networking begin….

Source: Picture
Posted on

“What’s in Hogan 203?”: Meet the Career Counselors

Saving your career, one resume at a time.


Although you might walk by the Career Planning Center every day on your way to class or Cool Beans, do you really know “What’s in Hogan 203?” Throughout this semester, the Holy Cross Career Planning blog will feature a What’s in Hogan 203 post where you can learn more about the inner workings of your on-campus career resource center.

To kick off the series, we’re going to officially introduce (or re-introduce) you to our fabulous Career counselors. As your key career resources on campus, these are the people you want to know!

  • Amy Murphy:

I have been assisting Holy Cross students identify their career interests and objectives and secure jobs and internships for over 15 years.  I am proud to say, I have held nearly every job in Career Planning: from career counseling, to employer relations to SIP.  Today, I work primarily with the Career Planning and SIP staff to make sure we are providing YOU everything we can to assist you identify and clarify your career interests and objectives and then secure internships and full time employment.  My strongest advice is to connect with Career Planning early in your time at Holy Cross and have a conversation about your interests, abilities and values.  We can help you see the connections between those and the world of work – connections you may never have thought possible!  My second piece of advice: It is never too late to connect with Career Planning!  Stop on by Hogan 203 today!


  • Maura Hume:

My name is Maura Hume, HC Class of 2007, and I’m the Associate Director of Employer Relations.  I run the Employer Relations program, which comprises on-campus recruiting, full-time job postings and all non-SIP internships.  I work very closely with employers and alumni looking to recruit HC students, as well as Seniors looking to prepare for their life after HC.  I love to be outside- hiking, skiing, whatever and this summer I adopted a new spaniel puppy named Lilly, who now completely dictates my life.  If you have career questions, want to see puppy pictures or are curious to study a map of Everest, then stop by the office!


  • Pam Ahearn:

I am starting my 11th academic year with the Summer Internship Program at Holy Cross.  My passions are helping students make connections between their academic pursuits and the world of work, and connecting students with Holy Cross alumni. Although not a graduate of Holy Cross, I have been known to bleed purple!


  • Christine Staub:

As Associate Director of the Summer Internship Program, I enjoy spending every waking minute with SIP students (ok, maybe just all the minutes during the work week).  My background in Human Resources and Recruiting enables me to help students market their skills to potential employers.  Whether working on resumes, cover letters, interview skills or networking strategies, I see every appointment as an opportunity to help students recognize and articulate just how much they have to offer.


  • Megan Chester:

I am the Assistant Director/Career Counseling working with students in all phases of the career development process.  Through one-one-one meetings and workshops, I help students identify choice of major and career paths. In addition, I prepare students for professional opportunities by connecting them with resources for internship/job searching and networking.  Also, I oversee the Sophomore Career Advising program and acts as liaison to young alumni.


  • Jonathan Hurt:

As the Assistant Director of Programming and Resources in the HC Career Planning Center, I serve as the program manager for the Alumni Job Shadowing Program, organize career related programs and career panels, and assist in evaluating online resources.  I served as a State Department Intern in 2010 and work extensively to help students who are interested in working for the federal government.  I am a huge sports fan whose favorite teams include Arsenal FC, San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bulls, and Atlanta Braves.


  • Andrea Eastman:

I am beginning my 6th academic year with Career Planning and the Summer Internship Program (SIP).  I work with students of all years including alumni and those admitted into SIP.  In addition, I encourage students to discover their true interests, values, and strengths and helps find a fit for these characteristics in the corporate and/or nonprofit arenas.  Although I am a graduate of Brown University, I would have been a *very* happy camper at Holy Cross!

To set up an appointment with one of our Career Counselor, stop by Hogan 203 or give us a call at 508-793-3880. There are also Drop-in hours every day from 1-4pm and Virtual Drop-ins Mondays from 7-9pm via Crusader Connections.

Happy Career hunting, Holy Cross!
Posted on

Setting yourself up for Success: Class by Class Career Advice

WELCOME BACK TO HOLY CROSS!

Although most of us are still busy planning Fall around our syllabi or re-adjusting to the arduous trek up and down Mt. St. James every day, it is never too early to start thinking about Career Planning!

  • FRESHMEN: Get involved!

Welcome to your first semester on the Hill! As a first year student, you truly have a “fresh” start and endless opportunities to pique new interests and learn more about yourself. Although concretely setting up your “career path” may seem aggressive for your first semester, there are several ‘second nature’ things you can do to set yourself up for a bright career at HC and beyond.

1.)  Get involved on campus: Join 2  or more clubs or organizations. Getting involved helps to expand your interests, while introducing you to a new network of peers. Added Bonus: Campus activities are a great resume booster!

2.)  Take interesting classes: Before second semester enrollment, take the time to find classes that really speak to you. Being interested in the material helps you stay engaged and will eventually direct you towards a major if you are undecided.

  • SOPHOMORES: Focus in!

Sophomore year is the time to hone in your skills and piece together your achievements.

1.) Create your Resume: Now is the time to either create or refine your resume, as you start to build your professional profile. If you need help perfecting your resume, make an appointment to meet with one our Career Counselors!

2.) Apply to SIP: This semester presents your first opportunity to apply to HC’s Summer Internship Program. Although this program is highly competitive, the application process marks a great way to practice building your resume, cover letter and interview skills.

  • JUNIORS: Start your search!

Welcome to the Internship year of college! It’s time to start searching and applying for internships that appeal you.

1.)  Apply to SIP: The Summer Internship Program gives qualified students a helpful “foot in the door” to many amazing internships by connecting HC students with established alums.

2.)  Search Early: Start browsing different companies’ websites for internship opportunities. Many companies set their internship deadlines in the fall, so have your updated resumes and cover letters ready to go!

  • SENIORS: Network, Network, Network!

As daunting as it might seem, senior year is the inevitable prelude to the notorious “real world.” Although denial is one way to approach this problem, the better way is to set your self up for success through networking.

1.)  Stay in Touch: If you had an internship or job this summer, stay in touch with the people you met! Maintaining a dialogue keeps you fresh in their minds and helps for recommendations later down the road.

2.)  Reach Out: Use the Career Advisors Network to reach out to alums in career fields you may pursue. (http://bit.ly/gG5PFM) Also, keep an eye out for an invitation from the Alumni office to join the Alumni Online Community where you can search for additional contacts. Remember, reaching out means learning more about specific jobs or companies, not blatantly asking for jobs!

3.)  Network in-person: Use events like the Holy Cross Career Fair (September 25th) to meet new contacts and demonstrate your professionalism. Extra Edge: Have business cards printed and give them to professionals you talk with!

Have questions or want help with these quick tips? Come to Career Planning in Hogan 203 for Drop-in hours or set up an appointment to meet with one of our amazing Career Counselors!

In addition, Career Counselors will be available to answer any quick career questions during Virtual Drop-in Hours, which start up Monday, September 17th!
Posted on

And the Winner is…

Congratulations to our Career Kickoff Carnival prize winners:

Tess Staley ’15 (Bookstore gift card)
Elizabeth McManus ’13 (Sahara Cafe)
Lauren Breen ’13 (Tortilla Sam’s)
Paige Tortorelli ’16 (Leo’s Ristorante).

Many thanks to all attendees! Best of luck with the Fall semester.