Career Development Blog

April 9, 2025

Meet Alum Earl Bueno ’93, Attending Anesthesiologist (MD) at Woodland Anesthesiology Associates

Name: Earl Bueno

Class Year: 1993

Organization Name: Woodland Anesthesiology Associates

Title: Attending Anesthesiologist (MD)

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

I am an MD specializing in Anesthesiology, working in the hospital and ambulatory settings.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

I attended medical school after completing the pre-medical program (Biology major) at Holy Cross. Through HC’s externship program, I was able to work at UMass Medical Center as a 4th year student, and that experience reaffirmed my interest in a medical career.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

SPUD, intramural sports, Eucharistic minister, student life (RA), work study (Biology department TA)

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

Biology – great foundation of study for a career in medicine/academic research.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Critical thinking (able to read and analyze scietific/medical publications) and public speaking skills (chairman of Department of Anesthesiology, advocacy on state and federal level, board of directors for hospital groups and medical/professional organizations.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Connect with alumni in the field you are interested to reaffirm your interest in that career path. There is nothing wrong in realizing that the fit is not there, but the sooner you figure it out, the better it is for realigning your plans.

April 9, 2025

Meet Alum Joe Ciccone, MD ’97, Chief of Urologic Surgery at Optum MA

Name: Joe Ciccone, MD

Class Year: 1997

Organization Name: Optum MA

Title: Chief of Urologic Surgery

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

Caring for patients with both surgical and non-surgical conditions of the urinary system in men and women.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

Through a family connection I met Noelle Lawler, a PA at what was then Harvard Vanguard’s Fenway office. As a starving art student, she gave me a job as a medical assistant when I was about 21 and the rest was history.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

Football, Track, Improv Comedy, and was an English Major with a concentration on writing (poetry).

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

My English major led me to graduate school at Emerson College. This experience was enough to know that a career as a writer was not for me.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Certainly writing and communication are major skills for a surgeon and department leader. Mostly, I learned how to challenge myself intellectually and physically. Both of these skills allowed me to succeed in medical school and residency while managing a young family.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Play the slow game. Take classes across multiple disciplines and become well-rounded and maximally enriched. Do not feel pressured to get into medical school as soon as humanly possible. Enjoy the ride. Travel. Be with friends.

April 9, 2025

Meet Alum Nicholas Fasano ’14, Director, Government & Community Relations at Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Name: Nicholas Fasano

Class Year: 2014

Organization Name: Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Title: Director, Government and Community Relations

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

I am the main point of contact for all Federal, State, Local elected officials and municipalities on Long Island and in parts of NYC.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

HC did not really factor into connecting me with my current employer but it did equip me with the tools of discernment necessary to determine that being here is a good fit for me!

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

Rugby, Study Abroad, SPUD, Communion Ministry

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

History. I had a general sense that I wanted to work in Government but I think my major in History gave me a broad understanding of the impact government’s have on how societies succeed and fail.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Time management and critical thinking.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Take advantage of everything that HC has to offer! College is a time for discovery and the best way to do that is by trying new things that you will almost certainly not have the opportunity to get involved in after school!

April 9, 2025

Meet Alum Michael McLaughlin ’06, Head of Middle School & Coordinator of International Travel at Austin Preparatory School

Name: Michael McLaughlin

Class Year: 2006

Organization Name: Head of Middle School & Coordinator of International Travel

Title: Austin Preparatory School

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

I oversee anything to do with teaching and instruction for 200 students and 20 faculty in grades 6-8 and plan/manage all of our international travel programs for all students Grades 6-12.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

I completely bombed an interview for a distinguished fellowship opportunity (though I’m not certain that the interviewer was keen on my project idea, so it may not have been all me). From there, I went to Lessons and Carols in the Chapel – and when I walked out, I saw a flyer for the Alliance for Catholic Education – and the rest was somewhat history.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

RA in Junior/Senior year; Alternate College Theatre; Passport Program; Orientation Leader; College Honors Program; History Honors

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

History — I taught history for seven years and then transitioned into administration, but have the benefit of classroom experience to mentor teachers. Currently, I’m writing a history book.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Writing – I do quite a bit of it; Listening in conversations.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Have faith – God may have other plans for you.

April 9, 2025

Meet Alum Nick Doyle ’12, Area President at Arthur J Gallagher

Name: Nick Doyle

Class Year: 2012

Organization Name: Arthur J Gallagher

Title: Area President

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

Integrated Marketing

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

My major in Mandarin Chinese enabled me to work for IBM in Hong Kong. I found digital marketing, web analytics and ecommerce through that role and fell in love with it!

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

Varsity Lacrosse, various clubs.

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

Mandarin Chinese. It made the initial connections.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Polishing writing skills, well rounded thought structure.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Try new things! To succeed at your career you will need to find something you have a passion for!

March 12, 2025

Meet Alumna Isabella A. Giaquinta ’23, Senior Associate at Lumanity

Name: Isabella A. Giaquinta

Class Year: 2023

Organization Name: Lumanity

Title: Senior Associate

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

In life sciences consulting at Lumanity, I partner with top global pharma companies and innovative biotechs to shape commercial strategy, identify market opportunities, and refine product positioning—with a personal focus on the rapidly evolving cell and gene therapy space as well as autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

Growing up, I watched my mom, Diane Giaquinta, with a mix of awe and confusion. I always knew she was important and that what she did was important, but had little to no clue what her role in pharmaceutical consulting actually entailed. Over time, I learned just how remarkable her career truly is—she’s held several influential leadership positions, including serving as the President of the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), Vice President of Health Systems Management at Bristol Myers Squibb, and currently as the President of StrategiCare, the consulting firm she founded. Her expertise in managed care pharmacy and her ability to drive industry innovation had a lasting impact on me, even if I didn’t fully grasp it at the time.

I always had an interest in healthcare, but as I got older, I realized that being a doctor wasn’t the path for me. I wanted to stay in the field but was drawn to the business and strategic side. During my time at Holy Cross, I connected with people who worked at Clarion, which later rebranded to Lumanity, and it was through them that I learned about opportunities in life sciences consulting. I applied and was accepted into their summer internship program, an experience which solidified my decision to pursue this career path. After completion, I was fortunate to receive a return offer, and joined Lumanity full-time after graduation.

As I continued to grow professionally, I came full circle and had the opportunity to lead the very same summer internship program at Lumanity this past summer. It was an incredibly rewarding experience to mentor the next generation of interns, helping them explore how life sciences consulting could be a perfect fit for them, just as it had been for me. Looking back, I am grateful for how my mom’s influence, my academic experiences, and my professional growth have all come together, deepening my understanding of the healthcare industry and motivating me to contribute to its continued evolution.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

At the College of the Holy Cross, I was involved in a range of academic and extracurricular activities that shaped my experience. I participated in XCHROM, supporting initiatives to promote gender equality and women in STEM. Through SPUD, I worked with Girls C.H.O.I.C.E., tutoring teenage girls from Worcester public schools at the YWCA. Additionally, I spent three years as a Relationship Peer Educator (RPE)—an experience that was especially meaningful as we worked to foster open conversations about sexual violence/assault on campus, emphasizing consent and promoting healthy relationships. I was also part of the Ski Team, where I enjoyed racing slalom, team road trips, and après-ski traditions!

Academically, I was fortunate to conduct research with Professor Tsitsi Masvawure, applying a mixed-methods approach to study the impact of COVID-19 on AIDS Project Worcester, an organization providing healthcare and psycho-social services to marginalized populations. I also worked with Professor David Damiano, mathematically modeling the effects of COVID-19 vaccination and the Delta variant on SARS-CoV-2 incidence among healthcare workers and the broader community. Then, in my senior year, I was honored to be named a Fenwick Scholar, with Professor Shannon Stock as my advisor. My Fenwick Project was a statistical research study on refugee/migrant health outcomes in collaboration with the Immigrant and Refugee Health Center at Boston Medical Center.

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

I was originally on a pre-med track but quickly realized that path wasn’t the right fit for me. I decided to pick up a math major after talking with Professor Gareth Roberts and Professor Cristina Ballantine. They helped me see how my growing interest in data and analytics could be applied to healthcare. As a math major I aspired to develop a strong quantitative background that could allow me to approach healthcare challenges from a different angle—through strategy, analytics, and optimization rather than direct clinical practice. This even led me to spend the entirety of my junior year taking mathematics courses at the University of Oxford, including a course on mathematical modeling in biology.

At the same time, I still wanted to keep healthcare as a focus in my studies. So, I added a Health Studies major, which allowed me to explore the broader implications of healthcare systems, policies, and strategies, and better understand the industry. Additionally, I pursued a minor in statistics, which further solidified my analytical skill set and reinforced my interest in using data-driven insights to solve problems in the healthcare space.

This combination of mathematical rigor, healthcare knowledge, and statistical analysis helped shape my decision to pursue a career in life sciences consulting. I found that my skill set was uniquely suited to this field, where understanding both the quantitative side of healthcare and the broader systems at play are key to making strategic decisions. Looking back, this shift in my academic focus not only shaped my career trajectory but also allows me to bring a well-rounded perspective to my everyday role at Lumanity.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

One skill I developed at Holy Cross that I use daily in my work is the ability to think critically and approach problems from multiple angles. Through my studies in math, health studies, and statistics, I learned to break down complex issues into manageable parts, analyze them, and consider their broader implications. This mindset has been essential in life sciences consulting, where I regularly assess market dynamics, evaluate product strategies, and navigate complex healthcare landscapes.

Additionally, my liberal arts education strengthened my research and reading comprehension skills, which have been invaluable in consulting. In this field, the projects we work on can vary greatly, and you often have to become an “expert” in a new topic in a very short period of time. Holy Cross trained me to quickly digest new information, synthesize key insights, and apply them effectively—skills that are essential when diving into unfamiliar areas and providing informed, strategic recommendations.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

My advice to students on campus today would be to embrace the opportunities to explore diverse interests and take risks in your academic and extracurricular choices. College is a time to figure out what excites you, and sometimes the best path forward isn’t the one you initially expected. Don’t be afraid to pivot—whether it’s shifting majors, taking on new challenges, or getting involved in different activities. You never know where a random conversation or project might lead you.

Also, take full advantage of the people around you—your professors, peers, and alumni network. They can offer unique perspectives and guidance that may shape your career in ways you don’t anticipate.

March 12, 2025

Meet Alumna Emma Keane ’22, Clinical Research Coordinator at Mass General Brigham

Name: Emma Keane

Class Year: 2022

Organization Name: Mass General Brigham

Title: Clinical Research Coordinator

In one sentence, what does your job entail?

I conduct research and deliver psychosocial and behavioral health interventions to cancer patients navigating complex treatment regimens and survivorship challenges, as well as to their caregivers, with the goal of improving health outcomes and enhancing quality of life.

What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

I really enjoyed my psychopathology course at Holy Cross, where many discussions with Professor Berman about career opportunities in the field sparked my interest in pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Concurrently, I worked in an undergraduate research lab and became very interested in expanding my methodological tools and research skills. After graduation, I spent a year on a Fulbright scholarship working in an international research lab studying well-being in the workplace. This experience sparked my interest in applying this work to the health sector, particularly in studying ways to enhance the quality of life for patients with chronic illnesses, so I began searching for Clinical Research Coordinator positions at academic medical centers.

What were you involved in when you were on campus?

During my time on campus, I worked with the Office of Admission as a tour guide and Senior Admissions Fellow. With the Student Programs for Urban Development, I mentored and tutored young girls and served as a Community Organizer, collaborating with Worcester government leaders to promote systemic change and civic engagement. I participated in Spring Break Immersion and had the opportunity to lead a trip during my senior year. I also enjoyed participating in Club Basketball.

What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

I double-majored in Psychology and German Studies and was motivated throughout my time at Holy Cross to pursue a Fulbright Scholarship to further explore the synergy between both fields. During my time in Germany, I taught English and worked in an international research lab studying well-being in the workplace. This further inspired me to gain research experience in Health Psychology and Psycho-Oncology before pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology.

What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

One of the most important skills I developed at Holy Cross was a strong sense of intrinsic motivation. I learned to pay attention to the activities and courses that provided inherent satisfaction and enjoyment. By consistently approaching each opportunity through this lens, I was able to identify a field of work that I love. This sense of satisfaction now serves as the core motivation behind my work, guiding my professional trajectory.

What advice do you have for students on campus today?

A cornerstone of a Holy Cross education is the guidance and mentorship provided by supportive professors and faculty members. They are committed to leveraging their expertise to help students navigate their interests and passions. I recommend getting to know your professors well and taking full advantage of their office hours. You may be just one conversation away from discovering your next chapter and securing a stellar letter of recommendation.

March 12, 2025

Meet Alum JP Cunningham ’23, Commercial Credit Analyst at Bank of America

Name: JP Cunningham

Class Year: 2023

Title: Commercial Credit Analyst

Organization Name: Bank of America

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

I analyze industry, collateral, and financial trends of clients while partnering with Underwriters, Credit Officers, and Client Managers to evaluate credit risks and formulate loan structure.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

Holy Cross has several events to connect students to the financial services industry such as the Corporate Finance & Banking Workshop, the Fullbridge Workshop, and the Global Supply Chain Workshop. I participated in all of these, among others, and think they are awesome resources to allow students to dip their toes into different areas and network with professionals in those areas. Separate from planned events, the Center for Career Development and Ciocca Center for Business, Ethics, and Society are two readily accessible places for students to drop-in for information and general support with any and all steps of career exploration. All of the above were huge helps during my four years as they aided me in choosing which areas I wanted to explore and pursue or rule out as a future entry-level position.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

On campus, I worked as an intern in the Ciocca Center during the fall of ’22 and worked as a PCA in the Center for Career Development during my senior year. I also enjoyed playing intramural sports like soccer and basketball with my friends. In the greater Worcester community, I was involved with Working for Worcester and acted as a Site Manager for two years.

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

I majored in International Studies with a thematic focus in International Political Economy & a regional focus on Europe. I really enjoyed how the major requirements allowed me to take courses across departments like Economics, Political Science, Spanish, History, and more. The beauty of the liberal arts education coupled with this major is that it forces you to apply yourself across disciplines and think critically about a wide range of subject matter, two things that have helped me early on in my career.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Communication, concise writing, and being able to clearly and effectively present both written and verbal ideas/arguments are a few skills I was able to develop at Holy Cross which I use everyday at work.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Make the most of your time on the Hill and in the city of Worcester because both are special places.

March 12, 2025

Meet Alum Justin Kiczek ’03, President at F. M. Kirby Foundation

Name: Justin Kiczek

Class Year: 2003

Title: President

Organization Name: F.M. Kirby Foundation

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

As the leader of this family foundation, I oversee the selection and distribution of grants to non-profits working in the arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public affairs.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

I was a part of the Holy Cross Leadership Network NY internship, which was an important experience in working in a non-profit.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

WCHC, Habitat for Humanity International, Habitat for Humanity spring break.

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

English — it certainly helped me as a high school English teacher for 14 years!

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

Critical thinking, Effective communication.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

Leverage your Holy Cross network!

February 12, 2025

Meet Alum Alif Kanji ’18, Investment Banking M&A – Senior Analyst at Canaccord Genuity

Name: Alif Kanji

Class Year: 2018

Title: Investment Banking M&A – Senior Analyst

Organization Name: Canaccord Genuity

1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?

The chief role an investment banking analyst plays is to support deal execution and client advisory by conducting financial analysis, preparing key presentations, and managing due diligence to help a company achieve their strategic goal of being acquired, acquiring another company, or raising capital through the public or private markets.

2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?

I had not initially planned to pursue a career in financial services; the decision came during the latter half of my time at Holy Cross. Being late to the process and unfamiliar with the structured interview cycles, I began my career at State Street Global Advisors (SSGA) in the SPDR division, where I focused on the financial sales of ETFs. After about a year, I realized I wanted a more analytical and fast-paced role, which led me to explore opportunities in investment banking. The Holy Cross alumni network was instrumental in helping me navigate this transition, particularly given the regimented recruiting process in investment banking, where lateral hires are rare. Despite having three years of work experience, I was still required to complete an internship at the first investment bank I joined before securing a full-time role. Though my path to banking was unconventional, I’m grateful for the journey and the decision to make the leap.

3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?

During my time on campus, I was primarily involved with The Holy Cross Crusader and worked on a few personal projects that I initiated with classmates.

4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?

I majored in Environmental Science, though when I decided I wanted to work in financial services, I declared an Economics major.

5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?

One of the most valuable skills I developed at Holy Cross is the ability to quickly and efficiently learn new concepts, a strength cultivated through the breadth and rigor of a liberal arts education.

6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?

While preparing for investment banking interviews and networking with Holy Cross alumni in the field is essential, my key advice is to broaden your perspective beyond the well-known “bulge bracket” banks when applying for internships or jobs. While these firms may have strong brand appeal, there are many other exceptional opportunities at “elite boutiques” and “middle-market” firms. These firms often provide hands-on experience and greater exposure to the full spectrum of the M&A process, allowing you to develop a well-rounded skill set and gain valuable insights into the investing landscape.