Bison Breakthrough: From College to Career

We’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 most excited for this year—and throw in some fun, rapid-fire questions so you can get to know the people behind the resumes, cover letters, and mock interviews.

Whether you're a student, alum, or friend of Nichols College, this episode is your backstage pass to the CPDC and the people who help power your career journey.

In 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.

We discuss the challenges they faced, the importance of networking, and how their college experiences shaped their professional growth along with how they stayed connect with their core group of Nichols College friends. Whether you’re about to graduate, starting to think about your future career or thinking, how can I stay connected with people, this episode is full of tips and advice you will want to hear.

In 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 or just curious about the field, this episode is packed with valuable advice, insights, and inspiration for your career journey.

What’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!

Your 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!

Performance 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 for you!

What 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!

Thinking 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 guide you on your journey!

What’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!

When 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.