The Bonadio Group, Rochester, NY
What is great about your co-op?
I enjoyed getting to apply what I learned in class to real life projects. At The Bonadio Group, I got to work with a lot of different people each week which helped provide exposure to different types of employees. I liked that I was able to work with the partners directly and had the opportunity to expand my network of professional connections. I also enjoyed getting to work with the clients directly because it helped me practice professionalism with clients and not just coworkers.
In what ways has Saunders/RIT prepared you for the job market?
Saunders has taught me the value of networking. Since my first day of college, networking was something that was always a topic of conversation. My network of connections has helped provide many employment and professional opportunities. Furthermore, the jobs I have held at RIT have helped develop my soft skills which has been and will continue to be valuable for my career as an auditor.
Why did you decide to attend Saunders College of Business at RIT?
I chose Saunders because of the co-op program. I was really focused on getting the best return on investment for the college that I chose. I felt that coming to Saunders would give me the best opportunity to get professional work experience before graduation which would then set me up for a potential job opportunity after graduation. Lastly, Saunders seemed very invested in their students which has held true during my time as a student.
What do you feel is the most distinctive advantage gained from your Saunders experience?
I learned a lot about professionalism and networking during my time at Saunders which has helped me built a professional network to lean on even before graduating. When I was at The Bonadio Group, I was asking partners if they had time to meet or go to lunch just so I could get to know them more which was something that not many people did. My Saunders experience also provided me a support network of people who encouraged me to be ambitious. I was inspired by my friends, professors, and faculty. Their influence over my last 4 years at RIT helped me develop from a shy teenager into a strong, confident businesswoman.