For the Class of 2017, graduation is quickly approaching and the question “What are you doing after college?” is becoming normal and frequent. The real world is coming quickly and it is time to plan ahead. Looking for a full-time job after graduation is one of the many worries for graduates. Angelina Guzzo has one less worry after landing a full-time job with MasterCard after graduation. This didn’t come easily and required a lot of hard work and dedication which she has proven during her time at Manhattanville.
MasterCard is a great partner with Manhattanville College and is always sponsoring events such as the Castle Conversations or ensuring internship possibilities for students. “Well, first I went to an info session at Manhattanville and I found out about the process for becoming an intern and then submitted my resume. Then they looked at my resume and I got an interview on campus.” Angelina explained. “I got a second interview on the phone and then I got the internship. I would like to thank Manhattanville because the fact they did on campus recruiting helped me get my internship.” Every year usually during the spring semester, MasterCard comes to campus and does an information session to find hopeful recruits. Angelina is one of the success stories with landing an internship with the brand.
Angelina started her summer internship in June for 10 weeks and was a Manage Services Intern. We always hear that interning is just filled with coffee runs and answering phone calls, but Angelina insisted that wasn’t the case at MasterCard. “I had real life work to do.” She said confidently. “I would be on my computer all day working on various projects they asked me to work on for the summer.” Many of us want a chance to prove ourselves and our skills in the work we’re given. MasterCard gives that opportunity. “I was able to sit in on meetings and phone calls.” She added.
Work environments are also crucial for a positive experience. We always hear about companies encouraging collaboration amongst employees. “I also got along really well with the other interns. We also had an intern challenge, a business challenge, which was to come up with a new product which was pretty cool. I just collaborated with my team.” She said.
While researching companies of interest could only do so much, Angelina expressed that she learned more about the brand once being involved in it. “After working at MasterCard for the summer I thought that it was just a credit card company, which it’s not.” She explained. “It’s more of a service company and technology. I really love how diverse the company is. I was able to get a real life work experience there. They have a work life balance there.” She also added that they do a lot of Philanthropy work which at Manhattanville is highly encouraged especially by getting involved with Duchesene.
Employment after graduation is a struggle especially for young people in today’s work force. Angelina appreciates being able to land the opportunity. “It felt amazing. I can’t believe I’m going to be employed after graduation. It’s honestly the biggest accomplishment. It’s nice to know that my hard work payed off.” She said truthfully. Personally knowing Angelina, I know her hard working personality and that she really pushes for what she wants. This opportunity was bound to happen for her. “It’s nice that I’ll be working at a company that I want to work with and I like the work they do. I’ll be working on the same team that I was on.”
After hearing all of this, you may be ready to go get your chance at MasterCard or at a different company. Before applying, remember this advice. “Don’t be afraid to go into a section you have no idea about.” Angelina said positively. “I’m a communications major and I don’t know anything about finance or credit cards.” She added. She also was sure to explain how her degree will help her in the position. “I said how my communications skills can help with the department I was interning for.” This shows that anything is possible despite your major. “I put myself out there and thought I could do it. Really just believe in yourself. Also, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for opportunity. They like eagerness in their interns.” She went on to explain that coming in willing to work and learn is key. Opinions are also welcomed.
“Be curious and be friendly.” She said lastly, leaving this story on a great note. Hopefully hearing Angelina’s story will inspire all Valiant’s to aim high and take risks. Remember, “To the Valiant of heart, nothing is impossible.” Keep pushing and good things will come especially to soon to be graduates.