School of Global Business Alumni Soirée Event
On Thursday, April 18th, 2024, the Arcadia School of Global Business welcomed back seven alumni for a panel discussion in Grey Towers Castle. All of these alumni were recently graduated working professionals who were invited back to talk to students about the transition from college to career. After the panel, students were welcomed to a soiree where they could connect and network with the visiting alumni.
After introductions and opening questions, the floor was opened to the students to interact with the panel. The alumni reminisced about their time at Arcadia, with Vania Suriel ‘20 saying, “Going abroad changed who I am to this day.” The panelists also had a chance to share their most impactful courses and advice from faculty with the audience. Frank Drust ‘16, shared his best piece of advice: “Preparedness is confidence.”
Vii Patel ‘20, a former Business Administration and Biology dual major, tells students, “Don’t be afraid to say ‘I don’t know.’” She also spoke about her experiences teaching herself new skills and how being a lifelong learner is beneficial in the professional world. Mallory Coyle ‘17 agreed with that sentiment, sharing that her journey to the medical publishing field was unexpected, but aided by her willingness to learn new things.
Justin Chasmar ‘17 gave out some tips on networking and meeting new people in different industries. He says, “Believe in yourself. Take risks.” His position with the Philadelphia Phillies certainly showed the importance of this advice. Victoria Eccles ‘21 shared an important note on the job search: “Don’t stress yourself out.” The students of the SGB certainly could use this advice, with the end of the semester so near.
After the panel, the event participants reconvened and enjoyed dinner and drinks. Professors from the SGB, as well as the administrative team, joined as well. Many students stayed after to converse with the panelists and network for opportunities. As Kevin Inoa ‘17 puts it, “It’s not about what you know, but who you know.” Many students took this to heart and spent most of the evening building relationships with the visiting alumni.
The School of Global Business feels so lucky to have such eager, talented, and enthusiastic alumni that join us time and time again to visit and speak with students. This panel was no different. The night was full of young professionals, excited to speak about their love for Arcadia and their journeys from college to career.
