Shows
Bison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCriminal Justice Careers Beyond the Badge — Law and Cybersecurity PathsIn this episode of Season Three, I’m joined by two Criminal Justice alumni who have taken very different career paths—one now works as a lawyer, and the other works in cybersecurity.Together, they share insights into their respective industries, what their day-to-day work looks like, and how their Criminal Justice background helped prepare them for careers outside of traditional law enforcement roles. We also discuss the education, skills, and experiences that helped them get where they are today, along with practical career advice for students exploring options within (and beyond) Criminal Justice.This epis...
2026-02-0338 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerFrom Finance Major to Bank President — A Career Path in Banking LeadershipIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, I’m joined by an alum John Thomasina who began his career working in the finance field before transitioning into banking. Today, he serves as the President of a bank.We talk through his career progression, how he made strategic moves within the financial services industry, and the experiences that helped position him for leadership. He also shares practical advice for students who are interested in finance, banking, and long-term career growth in this field.This episode is especially valuable for students interested in finance, banking, accounting, economics, or bu...
2026-01-2727 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMarketing, Events, and Entrepreneurship — Working in a small, family-owned businessIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, I’m joined by Janina Messerlian, who works in her family-owned jewelry business, focusing on marketing, boutique events, and business operations.Janina shares her experience on the Hill, her background in business, and how those experiences shaped her current role. We talk about what it’s really like to work in a family business, how marketing and events drive brand engagement, and the skills students should focus on if they’re interested in entrepreneurship, marketing, retail, or event-based roles. This episode is a great fit for students who are curiou...
2026-01-2033 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMarketing to Real Estate — Building a Career with Transferable SkillsIn the first episode of Season Three, I sit down with Devin Bailey, a professional working at the intersection of marketing and real estate. Devin shares her career journey, how she navigated transitions between industries, and the role transferable skills played in shaping her path.This episode is especially helpful for students who are interested in marketing, real estate, sales, or business-related careers, and for anyone trying to figure out how to turn academic experiences into real-world opportunities.
2026-01-1340 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCareer Coach to Career Starters: Job Search AdviceIn the final episode of Season 2, I sit down with Nichols alum Robby Binnall, who works in the Career Office at a State University in New York—helping students navigate the job search every day. Robbyshares his own career journey and offers practical,proven strategies for students about to start applying forinternships, jobs, and post-grad opportunities. In this episode, we cover:Job search dos and don’ts from someone who reads student resumes dailyHow to approach networking, interviews, and follow-upTips to stand out in a competitive job marketEncouragement for students feeling overwhelmed by the...
2025-12-0943 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerFrom the Court to Career: Life After AthleticsIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we’re joined by MaryLynn Skarzenski—Nichols alum, former women’s basketball coach, standout student-athlete, and now a professional working in financial planning.MaryLynn shares how her experience as a student-athlete shaped her mindset, built transferable skills, and continues to influence her career long after her last game.We talk about:Transitioning from college athlete to life off the courtHer path from coaching to financial planningThe importance of networking in every phase of your career How student-athletes can leverage their experience in the job search and beyond If you’...
2025-12-0242 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerLearning While Working: Building Careers Through DevelopmentOn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, I catch up with my former CPDC colleague and Nichols College alum Danielle Eli, who now works in Learning and Development at a local bank.Danielle shares how she transitioned into the L&D field, what her day-to-day looks like, and why ongoing learning is a key part of professional success—no matter your industry. We dive into:What Learning and Development really means in the workplaceHow employees can take ownership of their growthAdvice for students on embracing lifelong learningHow she found her path to a meaningful, people-centered rol...
2025-11-2531 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerBig Moves & New Beginnings: Emma Murphy & James Singletary on Leaving Home to Launch a CareerIn this special episode of Bison Breakthrough, we welcome back Emma Murphy and James Singletary—two Nichols alums who made the bold decision to leave New England to pursue career opportunities.We talk about what it was like to move away from home, how they handled the emotional and logistical side of relocation, and the life and career growth that came with taking the leap.Topics include:What motivated their moves—and how they made it happenWhat it’s like to build a new life away from home and familyHow the move impacted their career...
2025-11-1849 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerService, Security & Success: Journey to DetectiveOn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we sit down with Nichols alum Mario Turner, a s State Police Detective and proud veteran.Mario shares his inspiring career path—from serving in the military, working in private security, to becoming a detective with the State Police. He offers advice for students on how to prepare for careers in law enforcement and security and the mindset it takes to succeed. We discuss:Mario’s veteran experience and how it shaped his career Steps to joining and advancing in the State Police The skills and habits students should d...
2025-11-1136 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMaking Dreams Reality: Mallory Russell’s Path in Event ManagementIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we connect with Nichols College alum Mallory Russell, who has turned her passion into a career as an Catering Sales and Manager at a beautiful resort in Maine.Mallory shares how she pursued and achieved her dream career, the unique challenges and rewards of working in hospitality and events, and what it takes to thrive in this fast-paced industry.We discuss: Steps Mallory took to break into event managementWhat daily life looks like working in hospitalityThe skills and mindset that set successful event professionals apart Advice for students dreamin...
2025-11-0436 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMarketing Moves: Luke Andracki’s Career Journey and Advice for StudentsIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we chat with Nichols College alum Luke Andracki, who shares his path from college student to marketing professional.Luke gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his daily work in marketing, what excites him about the industry, and practical advice for students who want to break into this dynamic field.We discuss:A day in the life of a marketing proHow Luke navigated his career after graduation Essential skills for marketing students today Tips for building experience and standing out to employers Whether you’re curious about marketin...
2025-10-2849 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerFrom Dream to Reality: Kasey Ayer’s Journey as an Event EntrepreneurIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we sit down with Kasey Ayer, Nichols College alum and founder of ShowKase Events, a thriving event business she built from the ground up.Kasey shares her journey from idea to execution—how she took the leap into entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced, and the passion that keeps her going. We dive into:How she started and scaled ShowKase EventsWhat it really takes to be your own bossThe mindset shifts that help make a dream business happenHer advice for students with entrepreneurial ambitionsWhether you’re thinking about...
2025-10-2142 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCracking the Code: James Singletary’s Path to Intelligence AnalysisIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, I chat with James Singletary, Nichols College alum and Intelligence Analyst for the federal government.James shares the behind-the-scenes story of how he landed his role in intelligence, what the process was really like, and the persistence it takes to get there.We discuss:What it takes to work in federal intelligenceThe application and clearance processSkills and experiences that help students stand outAdvice for anyone looking to follow a similar career pathIf you're interested in government, national security, or just want a look at a unique...
2025-10-1431 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerInside Campus Recruiting: Job Search Tips with Emma MurphyIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we’re joined by EmmaMurphy, a University Relations Specialist with Bohler, who shares an inside look at the hiring process—and what students need to know to stand out.Emma walks us through her career path and offers practical, real-world advice on everything from resumes to interviews to the small details that make a big difference during a job search.We cover:Resume dos and don’tsInterviewing tips from the other side of the tableCommon mistakes students should avoidWhat recruiters really look for in early-career candidates ...
2025-10-0733 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerBusiness, Balance & Being Happy: A Conversation with Bobby DuttonIn this special episode of Bison Breakthrough, I am reconnecting with long-time colleague and friend Bobby Dutton, owner and operator of his own event production company: GBM6.Bobby shares what it’s like to run a business, how he keeps his team motivated, and the philosophy that guides both his work and life.We explore:The highs and challenges of owning a production businessLeadership lessons that go beyond the officeThe secret to finding happiness in your career—and in lifeWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or just w...
2025-09-3057 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerFrom Psych Major to Clinical Director: Jade Palladino’s Path in Mental HealthIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we talk to Jade Palladino, a Nichols College alum and Clinical Director at Chapters Recovery Center, who’s built a meaningful career in the mental health field.Jade shares how she discovered her passion for psychology, what her journey through graduate school was really like, and the skills and mindset needed to thrive in this kind of work.We talk about:Her path from undergrad psych major to clinical leadershipTips for surviving—and thriving in—graduate schoolThe soft and hard skills you need for a career in mental health...
2025-09-2334 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerFrom CT to FL: Al Vojtila’ s Leap into her FutureIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we sit down with Nichols College alum Al Vojtila, who shares her bold move from Connecticut to Florida to launch her career in financial planning.Al walks us through how she made the move happen, the mindset that helped her succeed, and the lessons she’s learned in the finance world.We dive into:What it’s like relocating for a new job and life opportunityThe skills and strategies that help you thrive in financial planningAdvice for students curious about careers in financeIf you’ve ever consid...
2025-09-1639 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerPurpose, Passion & the Playbook: Adrian Jordan’s Career JourneyIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we connect with Adrian Jordan, a proud Nichols College alum whose career path has been anything but ordinary.Adrian shares the “why” behind his work—what drives him every da —and how staying connected to purpose has helped guide his decisions, even when the path wasn’t always clear.We talk about:His experience working with a professional football teamThe twists and turns of building a career rooted in passion What lies ahead and how he’s preparing for his next chapterWhether you're figuring out your first steps...
2025-09-0946 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerTech, Leadership & Career Growth with Joe Ginese, Class of 2005In this episode of Bison Breakthrough, we sit down with Nichols College alum Joe Ginese, now working at CVS Health in their Technology Rotational Programs.Joe shares the story of his career journey—from the classroom to corporate—and how he's grown as a professional through leadership roles and strategic career moves.We dive into: What it’s like to work in a technology rotational program The skills students need to succeed in today’s workforce How leadership shows up in all stages of your career Why rotational programs can be game-changers for recent gradsWhether you're a s...
2025-09-0248 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMeet the Career Center Team: Behind the Scenes with Nichols CPDCWe’re kicking off Season 2 of Bison Breakthrough with a special episode featuring the incredible team behind the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) at Nichols College! In this episode, host Beth Gionfriddo sits down with her fellow CPDC colleagues Liz Horgan and Mandy Laporte to shine a spotlight on the office that supports Bison from their first year through life after graduation. Get an inside look at the programs, resources, and opportunities the CPDC offers to help students grow professionally and land internships, jobs, and grad school acceptances.We also chat about what we're mos...
2025-08-2634 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerLife After College: Navigating Life & Careers with Jared Maymon & Tyler KenneyIn the final episode of Season One of Bison Breakthrough: From College to Career, we are catching up with two Nichols College alumni who will talk about their journeys from college graduation to successful careers in finance and sales.Jared Maymon dives into the fast-paced world of finance, offering insights on breaking into the industry, lessons learned on the job, and tips for anyone considering a similar path. Meanwhile, Tyler Kenney talks about his transition from the sports world into a thriving career in sales, highlighting the transferable skills that helped make the switch a success.
2025-04-2944 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerExploring Careers in Psychology and Beyond: A Conversation with Dr. Tom DavisIn this episode of Bison Breakthrough: From College to Career, we dive into the world of psychology with Dr. Tom Davis, a psychology professor at Nichols College and author of a new book on the psychology of video games. We discuss the diverse career paths available to psychology majors, his new book, and some other fun too! Dr. Davis will share insights from his new book, and we will explore the connections between psychology and popular culture, including a fun discussion of Harry Potter and its psychological themes.Whether you're considering a career in psychology o...
2025-04-2220 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCareer Journey & the Remote Work ExperienceWhat’s it like to build a successful career while working from home? In this episode, we sit down with Kayla DeWitt who shares her career journey and how she transitioned into the world of remote work. From the challenges of balancing work and personal life to the benefits of flexibility, she offers valuable tips for navigating remote work environments and staying productive. Whether you're considering remote work or want advice on advancing your career in a virtual setting, this episode provides insights and practical strategies for success!
2025-04-1533 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCrafting the Perfect Resume: Best Practices from a Nichols College AlumYour resume is your first chance to make a great impression on potential employers. In this episode, Gretchen Carlson, a Nichols College alum and Human Resource expert, shares her top resume best practices, from formatting tips to showcasing your skills and experiences effectively. We dive into what recruiters look for, how to tailor your resume for different roles, and common mistakes to avoid. If you're looking to refine your resume and stand out in the job market, this episode is filled with actionable tips and expert advice to help you create a resume that gets noticed!
2025-04-0839 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerUnderstanding Performance Reviews: Insights from a Nichols College AlumPerformance reviews can be a pivotal moment in your career, but what should you expect and how can you make the most of them? In this episode, Nichols College alum Jennifer Carabba shares her experience with performance reviews, offering advice on how to best prepare, what to expect, and how to use feedback to grow professionally. We also discuss strategies for setting goals, addressing constructive criticism, and making a positive impression during the review process.If you’re looking to navigate performance reviews with confidence or want tips for turning them into opportunities for growth, this episode is...
2025-04-0135 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerThriving in Sales: Career Insights from a Nichols College AlumWhat does it take to build a successful career in sales? In this episode, a Nichols College Connor Haynes shares his journey into the world of sales, offering tips on what it takes to succeed. We discuss essential skills, common challenges, and the rewarding aspects of working in sales. Connor will also share valuable advice on staying motivated in a competitive environment and his journey to his current role. Whether you’re considering a career in sales or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights!
2025-03-2533 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerApplying to Law School: Advice from a Faculty MemberThinking about law school? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Barnes, Dean of Liberal Arts & Sciences at Nichols College who will share advice on navigating the law school application process. From selecting the right schools to preparing for the LSAT and crafting a standout application, he will offer insights to help you succeed. We also discuss the skills needed to thrive in law school and what you can do now to set yourself up for success. If you’re considering law school or want to learn more about the admissions process, this episode provides tips to...
2025-03-1836 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerExploring Careers in Accounting: Insights from a Nichols College AlumWhat’s it really like to work in accounting? In this episode, Kaitlyn Baron shares her journey into the world of accounting, offering an insider’s perspective on the profession. We explore the day-to-day responsibilities, essential skills for success, and opportunities for growth in the field as well as what accountants are really like! She also has advice for students and early-career professionals considering accounting as their career path.If you’re curious about careers in accounting or looking for guidance on breaking into the industry, this episode is for you!
2025-03-1128 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMastering Salary & Benefits Negotiations: Insights from an AlumWhen it comes to landing your ideal job, knowing how to negotiate salary and benefits is key. In this episode, we sit down with a Nichols College alum Rob Studivan to dive into the art of effective negotiations and what you need to know about benefits. From preparing for the conversation to confidently discussing compensation and evaluating benefits packages, he will share practical strategies to help you advocate for your worth. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this episode will equip you with the tools to navigate job offers with confidence.
2025-03-0428 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerNavigating Career Change: A Nichols College Alum’s JourneyChanging careers can be both challenging and rewarding. In this episode, we talk with a Nichols College alum Sean Hoey who successfully transitioned from one profession to another, redefining his career path along the way. Sean will share what sparked the change, how he navigated new challenges, and the strategies he used to build a fulfilling new career. Listen in to find out what Sean is up to these days.
If you’re considering a career shift or simply curious about what it takes to make a professional pivot, this episode offers inspiring insights and actionable advice to...
2025-02-2535 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerCareer Paths & Lessons Learned: A Career JourneyEvery career path has its unique twists and turns. In this episode, we sit down with Janet Newman, Director of Academic Services for Athletics at Nichols College, to hear her career journey—from the early days of her professional life to her current role supporting student athletes. We discuss lessons learned, challenges and advice she has for our Nichols College students.
If you're looking for career inspiration and wisdom, this conversation is for you.
2025-02-1828 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMaking the Most of Career Fairs: Tips from a Nichols College AlumCareer fairs are a golden opportunity to connect with employers but how do you stand out in the crowd? In this episode we are talking with Reilly Levy, a Talent Project Specialist at TTA about navigating career fairs with confidence. We cover everything from preparing your elevator pitch to making meaningful connections and following up afterward. This is a timely conversation as our annual Nichols College Career and Internship Fair is just around the corner!
If you want to maximize your career fair experience and make lasting impressions on recruiters, this episode has the practical advice you n...
2025-02-1137 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerMastering the Interview: Tips & Tricks from a College RecruiterReady to ace your next job interview? In this episode, we chat with Shannon McIsaac, a Talent Acquisition Specialist at Enterprise Mobility. She will share strategies to help you stand out and make a lasting impression during an interview. We will discuss topics like how to prepare effectively, how to handle common interview questions, and navigate tricky situations with confidence.
Whether you're gearing up for your first interview or looking to refine your skills, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you land the job you want!
2025-02-0424 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerIs Graduate School Right for You? Insights about applying to and attending graduate school at Nichols College.Thinking about continuing your education with a graduate degree at Nichols College? In this episode, we sit down with Jess (Dias) Mriglot, Director of Graduate Enrollment and Student Success at Nichols College to explore the ins and outs of graduate school. We discuss the benefits of a Nichols College graduate education, how to choose the right program, and what makes Nichols a standout option for graduate studies. You’ll also hear tips on the application process, funding opportunities, and balancing school with life commitments.
Whether you’re considering grad school now or planning for the future, this epis...
2025-01-2822 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerTransitioning into your first professional position with Claire NicholsEpisode two of Bison Breakthrough: From College to Career is here! In this week’s episode I am brining you my first guest - Claire Nichols, a Talent Acquisition Specialist in University Recruiting from Sherwin-Williams. We are talking about making the leap from college to your first professional position, what you can expect and how you can best prepare for the workplace.
Listen to the episode now!
2025-01-2108 minBison Breakthrough: From College to CareerBison Breakthrough: From College to Career IntroductionWelcome to the very first episode of Bison Breakthrough: From College to Career! In this debut, we introduce the vision behind this new podcast and how it aims to support your career development journey.
Join me as introduce myself and tell you what you can expect from this podcast - insights on getting started with career planning, building confidence in professional environments, a making the most of your college experience along with some fantastic alumni, faculty, and staff interviews.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain inspiration and practical advice as you navigate your career pat...
2025-01-1406 min