Students Learn Real-World Lessons from Webster Bank
Bankers, social media managers, marketing and communications professionals provide insight
Webster Bank recently hosted a day-long, job-shadow program with Sacred Heart University students at various stages of their academic and professional careers, providing real-world lessons in communications, marketing, advertising and analytics, social media and corporate affairs.
Through a partnership with SHU, Webster bankers talked about their current positions and career journeys, and they offered advice on the best ways to present oneself to a prospective employer.
The program was for undergraduate and graduate students considering careers in marketing and communications.
“We were so pleased to see our colleagues come forward to participate and pay it forward,” said Alice Ferreira ’91, executive vice president and director of public affairs at Webster. “Many thanks to everyone at Webster who continue to support young talent development efforts. It’s another recognition for Webster to be asked to launch a program that will be a model for other corporations.”
Students heard from new Webster bankers, including Elisa Funteral, social media manager. Funteral obtained her job—from interview to onboarding—completely online in July.
“It was interesting to join a company and never see anyone in person, but the experience was professional,” Funteral said. “Many people have reached out to connect online and help me learn more about the company and how we can work together. My advice to the students was not to worry; good employers will find a way to make the experience valuable and engaging.”
The students also heard from SHU alumni Julie Zelno, vice president, internal communications, and Carlos Rivera, manager of marketing strategy and operations. Rivera urged students to be involved in school programs so they stand out beyond excelling in academics. Two SHU graduates, Caroline Flynn ’19 and Brooke McGreen ’19 from Webster’s commercial banking division, tag-teamed a session, as well.
“We thank Webster for allowing us to have these invaluable discussions on how to look for a job, especially in a virtual world,” said Assistant Director for Young Alumni Engagement Natalie DiGennaro ’15, ’16 MBA.
Other Webster bankers participating included Barbara DeBisschop, Danielle Carpenter, Elaine Ficarra, David Gunn, Cara Kacin, Heidi McGrath, Sebastian Oliver, Kelly Raskauskas and Eric Simpson.
“I really enjoyed the job shadow day and thought it gave a lot of insight as to what people in the public relations field do,” said a SHU student involved in the shadow program. “All the feedback from the employees of Webster Bank was valuable.”
For other businesses and alumni looking to host or learn more about job shadowing opportunities please contact Natalie DiGennaro at digennaron@sacredheart.edu.