Beyond The Tassel

Hosted by DeSales University CareerCast

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Feb 2026

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About the show

Beyond the Tassel reconnects with DeSales University alumni to inspire and inform current students about the infinite opportunities that our graduates have experienced beyond college. Through informational interviews, this podcast will share stories, experiences, insights and resources to help current DeSales University students explore real world opportunities and spark further career curiosity.

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52 recent

February 13, 202619 min

Owning the Stage of Your Career

Join Alex Csedrik, a 2008 DeSales University alum and Creative Writing Award winner, as he explores the intersection of professional success and artistic passion. A seasoned writer, former professor, and comedian, Alex brings unique insight into pursuing what you love while navigating career demands. In this episode, Alex dives into the importance of confidence, connecting with your audience, whether in the classroom or on stage, and making thoughtful choices that distinguish impulsive moves from career-driven decisions. He inspires listeners to embrace both ambition and creativity in building a fulfilling life.

October 29, 202526 min

Always Listen to your Calling

Take a journey with us as we unpack the meaning of faith-based leadership with DeSales alumni Guilherme and current Director of Campus Ministry at Newman University. In this week’s episode, we learn of the impact faith can have on the journey from college to career. In this episode, we uncover how faith shapes our search for meaning and purpose in our careers and how trusting in God’s plan can lead us down unexpected, yet deeply fulfilling, paths.

November 19, 202416 min

Finding Inner Strength

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we engage with Ramon Garcia, a graduate of the Sport and Exercise Physiology program from the class of ’21. One of the highlights from his journey at DeSales was his ability to merge his passion for helping others with his enthusiasm for exercise and strength training. Tune in to discover how he became a Clinical Exercise Physiologist for St. Luke’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation!

October 15, 202423 min

ACCESSing and Perservering

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we feature Chad Bruckner, Criminal Justice ’15, Mastersin Digital Forensics ’20. His journey includes military service, law enforcement, and getting his degrees through the ACCESS (Adult Studies) program. After his time in the police force, he transitioned to entrepreneurship and motivational speaking. Now, he has gone full circle, joining the DSU Police Force! Take a listen to him sharing his diverse path and the successful factors that helped him grow!LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadbmotivates/

September 17, 202422 min

Trust Your Journey

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we speak to Chris McGinnis, ’10 Musical Theater. Chris's passion for directing shaped his academic journey through both undergraduate and graduate studies, ultimately leading him to his current role as General Manager of Second Stage Theater. His pride in the theater's accomplishments shines through as he discusses their Tony Award-winning production of "Appropriate”! Join us for an engaging conversation that delves into the vibrant world of performing arts, offering insights into Chris's experiences and the creative process behind successful theatrical productions.

July 2, 202418 min

Intuition and Interests

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we connect with Lauren Karch. She graduated in 2012 with a double B.S. in Marketing and Business Management, and a minor in Biology. Staying true to her love for the sciences, she combined everything into her career now as a Learning and Development Consultant for Organon. During her time at DeSales, she switched majors a few times. She is very happy with all of the experiential learning and the continued education she did. Listen in to hear her wonderful story!

May 7, 202416 min

You Will Land Where You Are Meant to Be.

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we chat with Daniel O’Connell, a personal injury attorney at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb in Philadelphia. He credits Professor Cocozza for sparking his interest in pursuing law school and to branch out of being a marketing and sports management major. Listen in to hear how family, sport, and values helped him to grow in his career!

February 20, 202425 min

Sean Crosby '15, Writing His Own Restaurant Story

On this episode of Beyond The Tassel, we go overseas to London to chat with Sean Crosby ’15. He grew up surrounded by the Diocese of Allentown and that led him to pursue his B.A. in Theology. After watching the documentary Somm, he found a new calling. Listen in to how he became the Assistant Head Sommelier at Restaurant Story!

January 23, 202418 min

Researching Through the Modern World

This episode of Beyond The Tassel features Frank Alvarado, ’17. After transferring from Northampton Community College, he graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration. He believes the resources at DeSales have helped him grow in his current job as the Director of Research and Data Management at the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. Listen to his journey and how he got to where he is! https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-alvarado/

December 5, 202319 min

Navigating the Journey of Teaching with Each Other

On this special episode of Beyond The Tassel, Nina interviews her parents, Anthony and Sheila Viglianti! Both of them started out wanting to do different things but ended up becoming teachers. Anthony teaches mathematics at Easton Area Middle School and Sheila teaches physics and chemistry at Whitehall High School. Listen in to how they both navigated being a student, figuring out the teaching scene, and what they are doing now!