In 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 happen
• What it’s like to build a new life away from home and family
• How the move impacted their careers
• Tips for students who may be thinking about relocating for their first job

If you’re considering a move for your career—or just want reassurance that big changes can lead to big growth—this episode is full of relatable advice and encouragement.

On 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 develop now for future success
• Tips for anyone interested in law enforcement or security careers

Releasing on Veterans Day, this episode honors Mario’s service and offers powerful insight for those considering a career in public service.

In 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 management
• What daily life looks like working in hospitality
• The skills and mindset that set successful event professionals apart    

• Advice for students dreaming of careers in events and hospitality

If you’re passionate about creating experiences and ready to work hard to make your dream career come true, Mallory’s story will inspire and guide you.

In 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 pro
• How 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 marketing or actively pursuing a role, Luke’s story and advice will give you a fresh perspective and inspiration.

In 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 Events
• What it really takes to be your own boss
• The mindset shifts that help make a dream business happen
• Her advice for students with entrepreneurial ambitions

Whether you’re thinking about starting your own business or just love a great story about passion and persistence, Kasey’s insight and energy are sure to inspire.

In 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 intelligence

• The application and clearance process
• Skills and experiences that help students stand out
• Advice for anyone looking to follow a similar career path

If you're interested in government, national security, or just want a look at a unique and fascinating career path, this episode delivers insight, strategy, and inspiration.

In 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’ts
• Interviewing tips from the other side of the table

• Common mistakes students should avoid

• What recruiters really look for in early-career candidates

 Whether you’re just starting your search or preparing to apply this semester, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you feel confident and ready.

In 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 business
• Leadership lessons that go beyond the office
• The secret to finding happiness in your career—and in life

Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or just want to hear some authentic, grounded advice about life and leadership, this episode delivers both inspiration and realness.

In 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 leadership
• Tips for surviving—and thriving in—graduate school
• The soft and hard skills you need for a career in mental health

Whether you're considering psychology, grad school, or helping professions in general, Jade offers insight, encouragement, and real talk about what it takes to make it in this field.

In 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 opportunity
• The skills and strategies that help you thrive in financial planning
• Advice for students curious about careers in finance

If you’ve ever considered moving for a job—or if you're exploring the world of financial planning—this episode is packed with real talk and actionable advice.