The Career Coaches of Fisher

Hosted by Tracy Sullivan & Laurie Valentino

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Join St. John Fisher University’s Career Coaches Tracy Sullivan and Laurie Valentino as they chat about all-things career and answer your burning questions about navigating the often challenging world of work.

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32 recent

September 9, 202612 min

Career Fair Myths Debunked

Think the Career Fair isn't for you? Think again. In this episode, we tackle the biggest myths that keep students from attending career fairs—and explain why showing up might be one of the best decisions you make this semester. We'll debunk common misconceptions like: "I don't have a resume." "I'm only a first-year student." "I'm not looking for a job." "I don't know what I want to do." "I don't have a LinkedIn profile." "I don't know how to network." "I don't have professional clothes." "It's too overwhelming." Whether you're exploring majors, searching for internships, preparing for your first job, or simply curious about your options, you'll leave this episode with practical strategies, greater confidence, and a new perspective on what a career fair can do for your future.

April 20, 202615 min

Standing Out as an Intern: Small Actions That Make a Big Impression

Getting the internship is just the beginning—what you do next is what truly sets you apart. In Part 2 of our “Standing Out as an Intern” series, the Career Coaches of Fisher explore how students can make the most of their internship experience by demonstrating professionalism, initiative, and a growth mindset. From building strong relationships with supervisors and coworkers to asking thoughtful questions, managing feedback, and finding ways to add value beyond your job description, this episode shares practical strategies interns can use every day. We’re joined again by Tashanda Thomas, Senior Vice President and Chief People and Culture Officer at Foodlink, who brings insights from both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors on what employers notice most in standout interns. Whether you’re hoping for a strong reference, a return offer, or simply a clearer sense of your career path, this episode will help you turn your internship into a meaningful and memorable experience.

April 1, 202621 min

Standing Out as an Intern | How to Shine Before You’re Hired

Landing an internship is competitive—but standing out doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In Part 1 of our two-part series on Standing Out as an Intern , we break down how students can shine before they even get the offer. We’re joined by Tashanda Thomas, Senior Vice President and Chief People & Culture Officer at Foodlink, who offers insider perspective on what hiring leaders are really looking for in internship candidates. From crafting a résumé and application that actually gets noticed to walking into interviews with clarity and confidence, we’re sharing practical strategies that move you from applicant to standout candidate. You’ll learn how to tailor your materials, answer common interview questions with impact, and communicate your value—even if you feel like you “don’t have enough experience.” Whether you’re applying for your first internship or looking to level up your approach, this episode will help you show up prepared, authentic, and intentional.

March 10, 202613 min

Networking Without the Awkward: How to Build Career Connections That Actually Work

Networking has a reputation for being awkward, fake, or downright uncomfortable—but what if it didn’t have to be? In this episode, Career Coaches Tracy Sullivan and Laurie Valentino demystify networking and show students how to use it as a powerful (and approachable) career tool. You’ll learn how to craft an elevator pitch, conduct meaningful informational interviews, leverage LinkedIn and alumni connections, and avoid common networking pitfalls. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with simple, actionable steps to start building genuine professional relationships—one conversation at a time.

February 12, 202620 min

Reputation Matters: How to Leave a Job Without Burning Bridges

How you show up at work—and how you leave—can shape your professional reputation long after the job ends. In this episode, we’re joined by Nicole Viggiano, an experienced HR Manager, for an honest conversation about why not burning bridges matters more than students and early-career professionals often realize. Nicole shares an insider HR perspective on common mistakes employees make when they’re frustrated, disengaged, or preparing to leave a role—and how those moments can quietly impact references, networking opportunities, and future job offers. Together, we talk about navigating difficult workplace situations, giving notice professionally, handling conflict with maturity, and protecting your career reputation even when a job isn’t the right fit. Whether you’re in a part-time job, internship, or thinking about leaving your first full-time role, this episode offers practical advice to help you exit (and work) with integrity, professionalism, and confidence—without burning bridges you may need later.

January 13, 202623 min

More Than a Club: Turning Campus Involvement Into Career Skills

Ever wonder how your clubs, jobs, or campus involvements translate to future career opportunities? In this week’s episode, we chat with Fisher students Mackenzie Lloyd and Victoria Howard about the skills they’ve gained—from leadership to problem-solving—and the surprising moments they realized their experiences belonged on their résumé. You’re building transferable skills every day… even when you don’t realize it!

November 10, 202514 min

Launch Your Career with the Fisher Flight Program

Get ready to take flight with us! In this episode, we’re exploring the Fisher Flight Program — a high-impact, all-expense-paid career experience happening April 15–17, 2026, in Charlotte, NC. Designed for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, this immersive trip offers exclusive access to top employers, Fisher alumni, and professional development workshops that help students explore careers, build networks, and gain real-world insight into life after college. We are talking with talking with Katy Festa, Senior Director of Alumni and Constituent Engagement at Fisher, and Jack Heltzel, a student veteran of the Fisher Flight Program who will break down what makes this opportunity so valuable for career exploration and growth, how to apply, and why experiences like Fisher Flight can be a game-changer for your future.

October 22, 20257 min

More Than a Major: The Skills You’re Building Without Realizing It

Not sure where your major can take you? You’re not alone! In this quick listen, we unpack how any major—yes, any —can lead to a variety of career paths and help build highly sought after skill sets. Learn how to spot the transferable skills hiding in your classes, connect your interests to real-world opportunities, and get inspired to see how every major opens more doors than you think.

September 24, 202517 min

From Resume to Relationship: Next Steps Beyond the Career Fair

It’s more than just handing over your resume. This episode shows you how to build genuine professional relationships that can open doors down the line. We’re joined again by special guest Jamie VonBramer, Placement Director for Outsourced HR at AP Professionals, who shares strategies from an employer’s perspective.

September 2, 202522 min

Inside the Career Fair: Employer Insights on Standing Out

New Season, New Co-Host - Listen as Tracy Sullivan and Laurie Valentino talk about about how to prepare for a career fair—what to do, what NOT to do, and how to make a memorable impression. We’re joined by special guest Jamie VonBramer, Placement Director for Outsourced HR at AP Professionals, who shares insider tips from an employer’s perspective.