November 12, 2008
A group of alumni recently got some help from St. John’s
University Office of Alumni Relations and The Career Center to make
them more competitive in the job market. 30 alumni and
friends of the University gathered in the Faculty Club on the
Queens campus for “A Mocktail Event: How to Work a Room” on
Wednesday, November 5, 2008.
Photo Gallery
The purpose of the event was to demonstrate to young alumni and
anyone interested in honing their networking skills, how to
effectively mingle in a cocktail reception and ensure that proper
etiquette is observed. Guest presenter, Joanne Cordano '76Ed,
a career consultant who also teaches etiquette classes for the
University, conducted the workshop.
Cordano briefly presented techniques for networking in a reception
setting then encouraged the group to put her tips into practice as
they moved into the second part of the event, a simulated cocktail
reception. Attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and beverages
while mingling with 3-4 others they did not know for 15-20 minutes,
as they were evaluated.
Cordano then shared feedback with attendees about the interaction
she witnessed. The simulation demonstrated to the group that
no matter what their age or situation in life, everyone can refresh
their networking skills. “It’s always great to refresh your
networking skills, because you never know when you may need to put
them into practice and make a lasting impression,” commented
Spencer Reames '99C, '02L. “Joanne really brought this notion
to life.”
Also appreciative of the opportunity to practice, Cheresa Fewell
'03C noted that, “The real experience was what Joanne brought to
us. We had little preparation and were asked to use the
skills we had. This is real life networking, and that is what
made this event so meaningful.”
The event proved to be both educational and a notable achievement
for the attendees who took another step toward mastering the art of
networking.
Recent graduate Julia Kropiewnicki '08TCB was grateful for her
newly acquired skills. “St. John’s has been great in
maintaining a relationship between its students and alumni,” she
noted. “Networking is the key to success and
advancement. St. John’s offers many opportunities to network
through various events such as these which are invaluable to
me.”