April 16, 2024 — Student growth and professional development took center stage at the 2024 Internship Showcase, an annual event that highlights Marist’s commitment to fusing liberal arts education with real-world experience.

With 54 student table hosts, the event, which took place in the Murray Student Center on April 4, was a vibrant hub of activity focused on peer mentorship. Attendees learned from the student hosts who have already experienced internships at top organizations across the globe, highlighting not only the diverse range of internship experiences but also serving as a platform for students to share their professional growth and networking strategies.

“The event emphasized the importance of proactive preparation and showcasing individual strengths,” said Melika Akhavan Farshchi '26, a communication major and fashion merchandising minor. “Learning from diverse internship journeys underscored the critical role of networking, adaptability, and persistence in securing desirable positions within dynamic industries.”

“I wanted to create connections, talk to more people, and get some advice for myself going forward to possibly find an internship this summer,” said Evan Raider '26, a business administration major with a concentration in marketing.

Journalism major Lola Piccolo ’24, who interned with the New York Post, with Roger Connor, Internship Placement Coordinator in the School of Communication and the Arts. Photo courtesy of Kevin McCall, Center for Career Services.

That this advice comes from fellow Red Foxes is what makes the showcase such an important opportunity for networking, underscoring a necessary aspect of today’s highly competitive job markets. Table hosts shared their internship experiences, offering advice and insights into successfully applying to, preparing for, and engaging with internship organizations and opportunities.

“The Internship Showcase brings a unique perspective to the Marist student body, as we collaborate with one another for success,” said Meghan Clayton, a senior in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences who currently student teaches. “Having an opportunity to do so amongst peers who are driven to help them succeed helps make these challenging conversations manageable, and guide students on a path to post-graduate success.”

Junior Emma Elizabeth Winker agreed. “The internship showcase allowed me to share skills gained from Career Services with my peers, such as resume building, interview skills, alumni connections, and internship searches,” said the Fashion Merchandising major.

Student table hosts at the Internship Showcase. Photo courtesy of Kevin McCall, Center for Career Services.

Among the organizations represented were Anderson Center for Autism, Bulgari, Citigroup, Hyde Park Central School District, IBM, Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Prager Metis CPAs, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, United States House of Representatives, Dutchess County Public Defender's Office , FDR Presidential Library, JP Morgan Chase & Co., Oscar de la Renta, The New York Post, and The Walt Disney Company.

Eighty-six percent of Marist graduates participated in one or more internships, with many crediting these experiences as a primary reason they landed their first job after graduation.

The College’s dedication to extending learning beyond the classroom is further supported by the 1,728 alumni career mentors in the Alumni Career Network. These mentors play a pivotal role in guiding students through the intricacies of career development and networking.

“Our students not only participate in competitive internships, but they also take the time to give back to the community and share those experiences and connections with their peers,” said Mary Jones, Executive Director of the Center for Career Services. “This event was truly a testament to the wisdom, character, and kindness of Marist College students, and I continue to be inspired and impressed by their talents.”

Marist’s specialized internship programs, such as the Albany Summer Internship Program and the Tarver Summer Internship Program, along with graduate opportunities at the campus in Florence, ensure that students graduate prepared and career-ready.

Click here to learn more about internship opportunities at Marist.