The Office of Central Career Services is officially defined as an organization providing undergraduate students with professional development and experiential learning opportunities. But over the past three years working here, I’ve come to understand it as so much more than that.
While being a student worker, I’ve found a home away from home that has supported me professionally and personally. This office has been a space where I’ve grown, learned, and felt valued. The guidance and encouragement from the staff have played a significant role in shaping my confidence and sense of direction. From helping students navigate career choices to organizing events and supporting day-to-day operations, my time here has taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and being present for others. It’s also reminded me that professional development is more than just a resume or a job search. It’s about building meaningful connections and finding purpose in what you do.
From the beginning, Adam Capozzi (Director of Career Services, Assessment, and Student Success) made me feel like I belonged here, not just as a student worker but as someone with potential and value. He cares immensely about the success of Career Services. He respectably keeps the office on track with our efforts while being approachable, kind, and genuinely invested in each person on the team.
Working with Christopher Maldonado (Associate Director of Career Services) has been one of the many highlights of my time here. Christopher is incredibly attentive and brings strong, thoughtful leadership to the office. More significantly, he is someone I genuinely look up to. Coming from a similar cultural background, seeing someone who reflects parts of my identity thrive as a powerful presence in the professional world has been deeply rewarding and affirming. His example has shown me that there is space for authenticity, culture, and compassion in leadership.
Lisette Child (Assistant Director, Employer Relations) and Lindsay Mason (Employer Relations Specialist) are vital to ensuring our network outside of the University remains intact. Their kindness has always stood out to me. They consistently check in and ask how I’m doing, and those small moments of care have made a lasting impact. Their genuine interest in my well-being, personally and professionally, always brightens my day and reminds me that I’m part of a supportive and thoughtful team.
Daniel Pack (Career Exploration Specialist) and Alyssa Jenkins (Career Exploration Specialist) are the most engaged members of our team, interacting with students daily to ensure they have the resources and guidance they need to succeed in their career journeys. Their dedication to students is evident in how they go above and beyond to ensure each student feels heard, supported, and encouraged. And that commitment doesn’t stop with the student workers. I’ve had the privilege of engaging with them on a more personal level, as they take an interest in my passions and projects, offering support every step.
Erin Smith’s (Internship Program Coordinator) dedication to helping students thrive has impacted so many students on campus, including me. He has always trusted me and valued my input when planning events and social media posts when needed. I’ve especially appreciated his thoughtfulness in the small moments, like always taking the time to say hello and check-in. And, of course, bringing in his dog Ernie for some much-needed pet therapy was a highlight.
Melissa Hogan (Administrative Specialist) has been one of the best additions to our team. Her warm presence has brought extra comfort and care to the office, and she always makes me feel welcomed and appreciated each time I come to work. I always look forward to our little catch-ups as I come and go; they’ve become a meaningful part of my day. Melissa has naturally stepped into a nurturing role for all of us student workers, offering genuine and grounding support.
As I prepare to graduate, it’s hard to say how much this office means. Over the past three years, Central Career Services has been more than just a job. It’s been a place of growth, understanding, accountability, and the occasional silliness. I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the most caring professionals at Syracuse University, and I can’t wait to carry on everything I’ve learned with me. Thank you for supporting, guiding, and trusting me throughout my time here.
To any students who haven’t explored what Career Services offers, I strongly encourage you to give it a chance. Whether you’re unsure about your career path, looking for internship opportunities or funding, or need someone to guide you, this office is one of the best places on campus for that. As someone who walked in a few years ago feeling like I had nothing figured out, I can confidently say that it all starts with taking that first step. And when you do, I promise somebody will meet you with the same support, encouragement, and care that I’ve been lucky enough to receive from this team over the past three years.
