Connections That Shape Careers: Inside Tobin’s MentorPlace Program

About MentorPlace 

MentorPlace is a cornerstone of Tobin’s Professional Engagement Program, connecting every Tobin student with an industry mentor during their time at the College. Embedded within the core marketing curriculum, the program ensures students gain early access to professional guidance, meeting with mentors at least twice each semester. For many participants, those initial conversations grow into lasting relationships that shape career paths long after graduation. 

The Power of One Conversation

How mentorship helped transform preparation into a professional opportunity 

When Steven Jacovetti ‘97SVC joined MentorPlace, he saw it as a way to share his professional experience with students eager to enter the workforce. A St. John’s alumnus and Managing Director, Deputy General Auditor at The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), Steven understood how daunting the transition from student to professional can feel. What he discovered through mentoring was the profound impact that thoughtful guidance and honest dialogue can have on a student’s confidence and trajectory. 

For MaryKate Chiara, that guidance came at a pivotal moment. 

“Before my mentorship with Steven, my nerves and inexperience held me back from attending networking events and applying for opportunities,” she recalled. 

From their earliest conversations, Steven focused on helping MaryKate Chiara refine her professional presence, strengthen her interview skills, and approach opportunities with clarity and intention. Rather than offering generic advice, he worked with her to build the self-assurance needed to succeed in a competitive environment. 

“Technical skills are important,” Steven shared, “but confidence and the ability to present yourself well often determine how far you go.” 

That mentorship soon translated into tangible results. Encouraged by Steven, MaryKate applied for an internship at DTCC. When she secured an interview, his guidance helped her approach the opportunity with greater confidence. She ultimately accepted the position and quickly distinguished herself through her professionalism and readiness to learn.  

For Steven, seeing her growth reinforced the value of investing time in mentorship and demonstrated how a few intentional conversations can open doors. The relationship also highlights how programs like MentorPlace create meaningful bridges between academia and industry. Although Steven did not graduate from the Peter J. Tobin College of Business, his involvement reflects the broader St. John’s network, where professionals across disciplines come together to support student success. 

“Mentorship benefits everyone involved,” he explained. “Students gain insight and confidence, and organizations get to connect with future talent in a meaningful way.” 

For MaryKate, the experience continues to shape how she approaches professional opportunities. 

“The confidence that Steven helped instill in me has gone far beyond our weekly meetings. After mastering things like introductions and elevator pitches, I walked into my internship feeling prepared. I now approach leadership and networking opportunities with a much more open and accepting perspective,” she shared. 

Through MentorPlace, what began as a simple introduction evolved into a professional partnership that continues to shape MaryKate’s career path and Steven’s own perspective on leadership and impact. 

Paying It Forward 

How alumni mentorship strengthens the Tobin community and inspires the next generation 

For Akua Frempong ‘07TCB, ‘08M.S., mentorship is more than a professional responsibility. It is a deeply personal commitment rooted in gratitude for the guidance she received during her time at Tobin. A graduate of the College’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Master of Science in Taxation programs, Akua now serves as a Tax Partner at EY and a member of the Tobin College of Business Advisory Board, remaining closely connected to the institution that helped shape her professional and personal journey. 

Reflecting on her undergraduate experience, she credits professors, alumni, and hands-on learning opportunities with helping her discover her path in accounting and tax while building the confidence to pursue it. 

“My time at Tobin laid the foundation for everything I’ve achieved professionally,” she said, noting that mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping her perspective and career direction. Today, through MentorPlace, she aims to provide the same clarity and encouragement to students who are navigating their own journeys.  

Akua mentors several students across disciplines, from accounting to marketing and management, each at a different stage of exploration. Her approach focuses on creating a supportive space where mentees feel comfortable discussing uncertainty, setting goals, and expanding their sense of possibility. 

“Our conversations evolve based on what they need most,” she explained. “Sometimes it’s very tactical, like preparing for internships, and other times it’s about helping them navigate uncertainty and build confidence.”  

Through monthly check-ins and ongoing communication, she has watched her mentees become more intentional and self-assured, approaching challenges with a clearer sense of direction.  

“Akua has had an incredibly meaningful impact on my experience at St. John’s and on how I approach my career,” said Nicole Jurski, an accounting student at Tobin. “She helped me think through networking opportunities, internship applications, and what it really takes to become a CPA. Having someone with industry experience to guide those conversations gave me the confidence to build a clear plan for my future.” 

The experience has also shaped her own leadership style, encouraging her to lead with empathy, patience, and reflection. 

Staying connected to Tobin remains a source of pride and purpose for Akua. Mentoring allows her to remain rooted in the community that helped shape her professional identity while contributing to a stronger, more interconnected alumni network. 

“MentorPlace has enriched my journey by giving me the opportunity to support emerging talent while continuing to grow as a mentor myself,” she said.  

Her story reflects the enduring impact of alumni engagement. By sharing their experiences and investing in students, mentors like Akua help sustain a culture of collaboration and mentorship that extends far beyond graduation. 

A Network Built on Connection 

Together, these stories illustrate the many ways MentorPlace strengthens the Tobin community. Whether through industry partnerships that open doors to internships or alumni relationships that foster growth and self-discovery, mentorship remains one of the most powerful ways to shape student success. 

For alumni and professionals considering becoming mentors, the message is simple: meaningful impact often begins with a single conversation. 

Want to Make an Impact? 

MentorPlace connects alumni and professionals with students seeking guidance, insight, and support. 

Learn more about becoming a mentor