Graduates of the Love School of Business shared career advice with current students during a panel discussion held during Homecoming weekend.
Panelists included:
- Jeff Casullo ’09, business technology analyst, Deloitte Consulting
- Carl Hairston ’11, associate district manager-small business services, Automatic Data Processing
- Claire Tamer ’11, inventory coordinator-cost accounting, IBM
- Betty Thayer ’80, non-executive director, Boyden UK Executive Search
The panel was moderated by senior entrepreneurship and marketing major Brian Serow.
During the discussion, panelists urged students to seek out opportunities and get involved during their time at Elon. They recommended students embrace class presentations and group projects; take initiative and become involved outside of class; participate in competitions; and find ways to make themselves stand out. These experiences not only provide networking opportunities, but also the chance to think and learn in the moment.
“You are always networking and you are always interviewing,” Thayer said. “Every interaction is networking. Take heed of how you look and act; you never know when you might meet someone.”
Thayer also stressed the importance of being financially literate and having the ability to understand financial statements and what the numbers mean for business.
Hairston said having a good work ethic is crucial when it comes to being successful. Students must be willing to work as hard, if not harder, than their peers.
When it comes to the job search, Casullo said, “Don’t take the first job just for the job. Figure out what you want to do and then go the place where you can learn the most.”
Tamer added, “Don’t limit yourself geographically. Take the chance, go on the adventure.”
The panel discussion was followed by the LSB Silver Anniversary Reception, which celebrated the school’s successes of the past 25 years.
Written by: Rachel Vierling ‘12