Marist College’s Center for Career Services recently held its Spring 2026 VIP Networking Event, which brought together students and more than 30 alumni professionals from a range of industries. The event was designed to help students gain insight into various career paths, receive advice, and make connections that could lead to internships or jobs.
Students who participated in the event noted that it gave them practical experience with networking and helped them understand how to approach professional conversations. Megan Meyer, a sophomore majoring in communication with a public relations concentration, said, “Events like this help students long term because they connect us with people beyond campus and give us real-world perspectives we don’t always get as sophomores. Hearing alumni share how they started, how they grew, and where they are now is really inspiring and helps me better imagine my own path.”
Karyn Devine, who studies criminal justice and psychology, added, “Being here taught me that networking really starts with just starting — once you talk to someone, you’re already getting your foot in the door. Talking with Jessica Wexler from the Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse opened my eyes to supportive career paths beyond hands-on law enforcement, and she even offered me an internship, which showed me how powerful events like this can be.”
Alexa Giambra credited Marist’s career programming for her internship success: “I really believe in Career Services events because one of these opportunities directly helped me land my internship with Paramount. A Marist Road to the Workplace trip introduced me to Paramount Communications, and experiences like this show how networking, referrals, and showing genuine interest can truly set students up for success.”
Azaliah McFarlane-DeCordova found value in face-to-face interaction: “One of the biggest things I learned at the VIP Networking event is the importance of asking questions and being open to where those conversations can lead. Talking with professionals in person helps you better understand your options and gives you confidence navigating the career search beyond a screen.”
Gavin Hard reflected on collaboration: “Being at the VIP Networking event has helped me think more intentionally about how people collaborate and what it’s really like to work within different teams. For students entering competitive fields, events like this encourage flexibility, curiosity, and the confidence to explore opportunities that may exist outside the obvious or traditional paths.”
The college’s alumni network now exceeds 50,000 members worldwide. Marist continues to focus on programs that utilize this network to support student development after graduation.
