The Fall 2023 Career and Internship Fair, hosted by the Center for Career & Professional Development, gave John Jay students and alumni the opportunity to kickstart their career search with over 90 employers from industries across the country. At the event, they expanded their network, handed out resumes, and applied for jobs on the spot.
“We were eager to support the Career and Internship Fair because we believe John Jay students can help influence and lead the change in wireless,” said Lacey Craig from T-Mobile. “It was exciting to see the students who brought their passion, ambition, and desire to do things differently.”
Kim Perez from the National Futures Association (NFA), was impressed with the students’ professionalism and career-focused perspective. “John Jay has been a key school partner to NFA for years. It seems like the Fraud Examination and Financial Forensics major was created specifically for NFA because it targets exactly what we do,” said Perez. “The major teaches students key analytical skills we look for in our candidates.”
We asked students what they hoped to gain from this semester’s Career and Internship Fair.
Jasmine Orrego ’23
Major: Forensic Psychology
Hometown: Queens, NY
Career Aspiration: NYPD Forensic Psychologist
Coming to the Career & Internship Fair, I knew it would offer me amazing networking opportunities, greater insight into companies, and it would be a chance to boost my professional development and confidence. In 10 years, I see myself working with the NYPD, applying psychological principles to law enforcement and the criminal justice system. The most exciting part of the Career Fair experience for me was speaking to Amy DeSimon ’15, ’19, a forensic specialist and psychotherapist working at Fifth Avenue Forensics. We both come from similar work backgrounds, having worked in the hospitality/restaurant industry, which taught us how to help people and finessed our interaction and communication skills. Seeing that she’s a double John Jay graduate, passionate about her job, and working in an industry that fights for truth and justice was inspiring. It lets me know my dream of working for the NYPD can come true.
Nazifatou Moussa Naneito ’24
Major: Public Administration
Hometown: Niger; New York City
Career Aspiration: Working at an NGO or United Nations
During the Career and Internship Fair, I came across the Center for Human Development and Family Services (CHDFS) and was immediately drawn to their mission, which perfectly aligns with my personal goals. I’m passionate about working with non-governmental organizations and non-profit organizations that want to help people in need and positively impact society. When I spoke to the representatives from CHDFS, I shared my aspirations, told them about myself and my role with the Student Academic Success Program (SASP), and they requested my resume. During our chat, we also discussed my post-graduate plans. They were genuinely interested in me and my goals and listed how advantageous having a graduate degree would be in the field I want to pursue. Their insights and perspectives really motivated me to consider enrolling in grad school.
Lesly Cordero ’26
Major: Criminology
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Career Aspiration: Crime Scene Investigator
I viewed coming to the Career and Internship Fair as a significant step toward achieving my career goals. I explored various career options and met with experienced professionals who provided great career advice—the most exciting for me was connecting with Abigail, a representative from the NYPD Cadet Corps. As someone who wants to join the Cadet Corps and then work with the NYPD, it was important for me to learn more about the program, the hiring process, and the benefits of being a cadet. Abigail even informed me about a Cadet Corp orientation that was taking place at the end of the month. This Career Fair experience opened up doors for me.
Sabel Vega Castillo ’24
Major: Human Services and Community Justice
Certificate: Spanish Legal Translation and Interpreting
Hometown: Mexico; Queens, NY
Career Aspiration: Social Worker/Counselor in a Public School
I went to the Career and Internship Fair looking for future work opportunities at organizations like the Center for Human Development & Family Services, the New York City Department of Education, and Latinas On the Verge of Excellence (L.O.V.E Inc.). I wanted to get a glimpse of what work was like at these organizations and how I could possibly fit into their available opportunities. The fair proved to be beneficial, not just for me but also for my mentees in the SASP program. At the event, you can practice your communication skills, step out of your shell, and meet new people, which is crucial for students entering the career world. Getting to meet people who are doing the work I want to be doing was exciting.
Shaniece Ellison Young ’24
Major: Sociology
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Career Aspiration: Family Attorney
I came to the Career and Internship Fair enthusiastic about exploring law and social work opportunities. I’m eager to broaden my horizons by learning about organizations and potential workplaces I may not have previously considered. Going to the fair was so enlightening. It exposed me to a diverse array of agencies and organizations, like the Administration for Children’s Services. The event served as a valuable platform for students like me to directly access work opportunities and establish connections with professionals in our chosen fields of interest.
