Nishi Akter is a Senior Psychology and Business Administration student at Fordham College at Rose Hill. During her time at Fordham, she has been a proud advocate of the Career Center by serving as a Fordham Career Ambassador (FCA) and a regular attendee of Career Center programming. Learn more about her journey as a Fordham student, how she made the most of the Career Center’s offerings, and her goals as she gets ready to enter the workforce upon graduation this May.
How did you first get involved with the Career Center?
I joined the Career Center at Fordham University during my freshman year. I met amazing Fordham Career Ambassadors then, and their passion for helping students and leadership skills inspired me. They showed me how much impact we could have by guiding our peers through their career paths. This motivated me to do the same and contribute to our community. Since then, I’ve been part of many career, professional, and personal development events organized by the Career Center. These events have not only helped me grow but also made me appreciate the hard work and dedication of the Career Center staff. I often encourage my friends and peers to join these events. Being an active member of the Career Center has been a rewarding part of my Fordham journey, and I always tell other students to take advantage of the great resources the Career Center offers.
How has the Career Center made a difference in your professional journey?
When I first arrived at Fordham, I felt lost in the vast sea of career options. Coming from a first-generation, low-income background in the Bronx and an under-resourced high school, I lacked the knowledge about majors and career paths, let alone how to apply for internships or network effectively. I didn’t know where to start. The Career Center became my guiding light during this time of uncertainty. By attending career fairs, engaging in one-on-one sessions with counselors, and building ongoing relationships with the staff, I began to navigate the complexities of the professional world.
The guidance I received was transformative. The staff helped me understand my interests and how they could translate into a major and a career. They showed me the ropes of applying for internships. This direct support led me to significant opportunities in the corporate and retail sectors, enriching my professional experience. Serving as a Fordham Career Ambassador, I embraced the chance to support my peers, sharing the invaluable guidance I received. The Career Center didn’t just help me find my path; it gave me the tools and confidence to walk it. The impact of the Career Center on my professional journey is profound, and I am deeply grateful for their support and dedication.
What tools and resources have been the most beneficial to you?
The most impactful tools and resources from the Career Center for me have been the resume review sessions and the mock interviews. I’ve always aimed to improve my resume and practice interviewing skills, and the Career Center has been instrumental in helping me achieve this. The Career Center staff provided me with invaluable feedback, helping me refine my resume and enhance my digital portfolio. Their guidance made me more confident in my abilities and how I present myself professionally.
Additionally, practicing mock interviews was a game-changer. It prepared me for real-life scenarios, teaching me how to articulate my thoughts clearly and confidently. Even now, I continually seek ways to improve professionally and personally, knowing the Career Center’s doors are always open for support. This constant pursuit of growth has led other students to seek my assistance with their resumes, a request I find both humbling and exciting. Being able to pass on the guidance I’ve received and help my peers is incredibly rewarding, and it reinforces my commitment to continuous self-improvement and giving back to the Fordham community.
What advice do you have for other students looking to advance their careers?
My biggest piece of advice for fellow students looking to advance their careers is to start early. Dive into conversations with employers, alumni, and your peers to discover what truly excites you about a certain industry or role. Understanding what you enjoy and why can significantly influence your career path. Don’t overlook the wealth of free resources available online. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Forage, and YouTube offer invaluable insights and skills development opportunities that can set you apart in the job market.
Finding the right company culture that aligns with your values is crucial. It’s about more than just the job; it’s about feeling connected and valued where you work. And remember, it’s essential to ‘shoot your shot.’ It’s normal to feel nervous or scared, but taking that leap can lead to incredible opportunities. The next application you send could be the start of something life-changing.
I truly think staying open to challenges and maintaining an open mind are key to personal and professional growth. Be ready to take on unexpected tasks with enthusiasm and excel in them. Networking is not just about making connections; it’s about nurturing genuine relationships. Keep in touch with your contacts, check in on them, and see how you can offer support. Giving back, no matter how small, can make a big difference. Every interaction is a chance to have an impact, so embrace these opportunities with a willingness to learn and a readiness to contribute.
Tell us a bit about some of your career plans and dreams!
As I approach the completion of my Bachelor’s in Psychology and Business Administration, I am excited about the opportunity to enter the finance sector. I am considering a wide array of roles, from corporate finance and human resources to strategy, operations, and client management. Coming from a background that isn’t traditionally associated with business schools, I am ready to leverage my unique blend of skills and experiences to support companies and their clients in achieving their objectives.
I plan to begin my journey in the corporate sector and am curious to see where this path will lead. My commitment to being a lifelong learner drives me to continuously seek knowledge in various industries and areas, aiming to understand the intricacies of how different sectors operate. I hope to help people and organizations advance their missions through my contributions, making a meaningful impact along the way. My strategy to achieve these ambitions involves being adaptable, flexible, and a strong team player, utilizing my analytical and interpersonal skills to their fullest potential.
Anything else to add?
One thing I’ve learned is not to be afraid to question my own ideas about different jobs and industries. It’s important to do your own research before making decisions. You know yourself better than anyone else, and you understand what you like and don’t like in a job, so trusting your instincts is very important. Always pursue what feels most fulfilling to you.
Accepting help when offered and expressing thanks are also key. Help and advice can come from unexpected places, and showing appreciation for it can open doors and create lasting relationships. Remember, navigating your career path is a journey where being open to new experiences and being grateful for the support you receive can make a significant difference.
The Fordham Career Center is committed to building a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship while providing a bridge between the classroom experience and the world beyond. Throughout the job and internship search process, it is our goal to help students, alumni, community partners and employers alike understand the extraordinary value of a Fordham education. To learn more about our offerings and connect with the Career Center, visit fordham.edu/career.
