St. John's Dedicates New, State-of-the-Art Facility for University Career Services

St. John’s focus on the professional success of its graduates was celebrated as students, faculty and administrators gathered at Chiang Ching-Kuo Hall on the Queens campus for the May 6 dedication of a new, state-of-the-art space for University Career Services.

Guests at the dedication were treated to tours of the sprawling new space, which features six interview rooms; a high-tech conference area for workshops, employer-sponsored training and networking events; and amenities including a hospitality pantry for corporate partners who recruit on campus. Rev. Donald J. Harrington, C.M., President of St. John's, presided over the ceremony and blessed the facility.

Kathryn Hutchinson, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs, said she appreciates the Center’s location at the heart of the campus. "It’s important that career preparation and planning be top of mind for all members of the community,” she said. “This location at the crossroads of campus will help to keep this goal in the consciousness of all." The facility is only steps away from the D’Angelo Center.

That sentiment was echoed by Denise Hopkins, Executive Director of University Career Services, who observed, "The decision was made to place University Career Services in a high-traffic, visible location to increase student traffic and symbolically represent the centrality and importance of career development as an integral part of a St John's education."

Dr. Hutchinson added, "Collaborations between University Career Services, deans, the Colleges, faculty, Alumni Relations and employer partners provide a network of support that our students need to successfully navigate the path from selection of a major to employment in the industry of their choice."

Student speaker Nicole Mastrangelo '13CPS told the gathering of the overwhelming support she has received from the Career Services staff. "They were key contributors to my undergraduate success," she observed, noting that they helped her obtain internships throughout her St. John's career, beginning with the spring semester of her freshman year.

"That first advisement session was the true beginning of my journey to mapping out my educational goals and finding a professional path," she stressed, adding that she visited Career Services on a regular basis for assistance with her résumé, interview preparation and internship assistance. She also frequently attended Career Services site visits to prospective employers throughout New York City.

"I'm so pleased with the opening of this new space," Mastrangelo said. "Now, other students will have enhanced access to all the wonderful services available through Career Services."