During the last week of winter break, Holy Cross students made early progress on career preparation through four concurrent hands-on workshops hosted by the Ciocca Center. With classes still on hold, their turnout reflected a real drive to sharpen their practical skills, build confidence, and explore different industries.
Corporate Finance & Banking Workshop (Boston)
37 students participated in a two-day Corporate Finance & Banking Workshop in Boston. They walked through the doors of Bank of America, Fidelity, JP Morgan, and Natixis, meeting alumni and getting a firsthand look at how these firms work. The group picked up insights into entry-level roles and learned what it takes to land internships or break into the field.
A highlight of the workshop was the annual finance networking reception hosted by Matt Kane ’99 of Webster Bank, giving students an opportunity to expand their networks and hear candid career advice from alumni.
Marketing Communication & Sales Workshop (On Campus)
Back on campus, 48 students took part in a two-day Marketing Communications and Sales Workshop. Students learned about advertising and branding with Courtney Quinn ’96 and Katie Macdonald ’07, digital marketing with Catherine Cote ’18, public relations with John Hartz ’98, and sales with Tyler Dooley ’17 and Brittany Fantau ’15. To conlcude the workshop, students put their new skills to the test with a PepsiCo project, pitching their ideas to alumni judges Kristen Buonassissi Mauthe ’12 and Ella Schiffmann ’25. The judges offered direct feedback on strategy, clarity, and presentation.
Congratulations to the winning students, Ignacio Sanchez ’26, Mary Powers ’27, Charlotte Riley ’28, Kimberly Von Randow ’28, Mary Maloney ’28, Cassidy Jones ’26, Maeley Nakamura ’26, Sienna Horn ’27, Paige Anderson ’28, and Perry Rassiger ’28.
Interview Prep Workshop (On Campus)
79 students built interview confidence during the Interview Prep Workshop. To kick us off, Mimi Doherty ’02 led an in-depth coaching and practice session that helped students translate experience into clear, results-oriented responses. Everyone showed up with a “dream job” in mind and practiced explaining exactly why they’d be a great fit.
On Friday, Holy Cross Career Development staff discussed the value of a Jesuit liberal arts education and practiced interview strategies before handing the mic off to career coach Jeremy Hill for some closing remarks. Students left with sharper stories and concrete prep strategies they could use going into recruiting season.
Fullbridge Professional Edge
42 students participated in the four-day Fullbridge Professional Edge program strengthening professional communication through effective public speaking, body language, and storytelling, supported by AI-informed feedback. The program concluded in a pitch competition focused on solutions for a greener future.
Congratulations to Lindsay Carozza ’29, Mikey Cammarota ’28, Liam Pawl ’29, and Anna Stolarick ’28 for winning Audience Favorite in the finals!
Special Thanks to Our Alumni and Partners
These workshops were made possible by alumni, partners, and campus teams who gave their time, opened their workplaces, and provided valuable guidance and feedback. Their support continues to expand what career preparation can look like for Holy Cross students.