Alumni Insider's View...New York State Capital FAQs

Program
What exactly is the Alumni Insider’s View…New York State Capital program?
This program is one of many Alumni Insider’s View programs that are hosted by the Office of Alumni Relations. These exceptional programs bring together students and successful St. John’s University alumni in a featured industry or profession for networking and education. This particular Alumni Insider’s View program brings students to our state’s capital for a day trip to hear from those elected officials and alumni who work in government and politics.  It offers students an “insider’s view” of how things work, what an average day is like, and how to prepare for a career in the various field associated with state government. Students will have an opportunity to listen to alumni panelists, lunch with alumni, speak with them individually and enjoy a tour of the New York State Capital.

What are the requirements for this program?
Full-time junior undergraduate students and graduate students on all domestic campuses, School of Law, and School of Pharmacy students, with a minimum 3.0 GPA are eligible to participate.  Students in all majors are encouraged to apply, due to the diversity of employment options available in New York State related to government and politics. Students are required to complete an application form, provide a resume and participate in an interview.

What can I expect to learn at this program?
You can expect to learn about the many various and diverse career opportunities relating to New York State government. St. John’s University alumni, particularly those who are elected officials, will share their experiences and current employment roles through panels and one-on-one student interactions. The program provides a real “alumni insider’s view” of jobs and career satisfaction from our alumni, all of whom are willing and available to network with students.

What is the maximum number of students that can be accepted?
Due to transportation and space limitations, this premiere Alumni Insider’s View program can only accommodate up to 50 students.

What kinds of students will I meet?
Since this program is open to all students who meet the criteria, you might meet students from the Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, and Oakdale campuses, from all majors.

Is there a waiting list?
Yes. Although students receive notification of acceptance, sometimes at the last minute they cannot attend for various reasons.  If an accepted student declines, someone from the waiting list will be contacted to fill the position.  If you are called from the waiting list you are required to attend the information orientation session in early April.  If you are called after the information orientation date has passed, you will be required to speak with a representative from the Office of Alumni Relations to review all necessary information.
 
When can I expect an interview?
Upon receipt of your student application, you will be contacted immediately for an interview. All interviews will need to be completed by April 3, 2009.

How will I know that I’ve been accepted?
The Office of Alumni Relations will notify you either by phone or e-mail between April 4 – 6.


Upon Acceptance
What do I need to bring with me?
Student participants should bring notebooks/pads and pens/pencils for note-taking, and resumes, in the event that any alumni may request one.

How should I dress?
Students should wear business attire, similar to what they would wear to an interview. For example, for male students, a dress suit; for female students, a pant or skirt suit. Any other specific questions regarding attire should be addressed to the Office of Alumni Relations or Career Center.

Can I travel to and from the program on my own?
No. Since this program is a one-day event, with a tight schedule, it is necessary for students to travel together under the direction of the Office of Alumni Relations.  Bus transportation to Albany and back to the Queens campus will be provided.


The Program
What is the itinerary for the program?

Date
Monday, April 20, 2009

Program Specifics

  • Bus will depart from the Queens campus at approximately 7 a.m. and arrive in Albany at approximately 10 a.m., making one rest stop along the way
  • Upon clearance into the New York State Capital, alumni panel #1 will take place from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Lunch will be from 12:30 – 1: 45 p.m.
  • Alumni panel #2 will take place from 2 – 3:30 p.m.
  • Tour of the New York State Capital will take place from 3:45 – 4:30 p.m.
  • Departure from Albany will be at 5 p.m., making one rest stop along the way
  • Arrival back on the Queens campus at approximately 8 p.m.