In 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 court
• Her path from coaching to financial planning
• The importance of networking in every phase of your career
• How student-athletes can leverage their experience in the job search and beyond

 If you’ve ever wondered what comes after your last game—or how sports can fuel long-term professional success—this episode is packed with real talk, encouragement, and insight.

On 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 workplace
• How employees can take ownership of their growth
• Advice for students on embracing lifelong learning
• How she found her path to a meaningful, people-centered role

If you’re curious about training and development or want to make the most of learning opportunities at work, Danielle’s insights will help you grow forward.

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.