03/8/13

Sell yourself in 60 Seconds…

Credits by: thetaxhaven via Creative Commons
Source: thetaxhaven via Creative Commons

As I was waiting for the elevator on the first floor of the VC building, I realized that a Director from Unilever was standing right next to me. We were about to embark on this 60 second elevator ride to the fourteenth floor. As my heart beat rapidly increased, I realized this was my one chance to get this woman’s attention. This was my time to use my “elevator pitch.”

An elevator pitch is a short summary used to quickly and simply define a person, profession, product, service or organization and its value proposition. In an era where time is often scarce, the 60-second introduction could be seen as a modern interpretation of a resume.

It is vital to always have your pitch ready. You may need it at a networking event or while waiting for a train. By selling yourself correctly you can gain an important persons business card in return and just like that you’ve grown your network to include another person that can help you in the future.

In the example below, your dream is to work for an Accounting Firm. This is an example of how you can structure your elevator pitch whilst in the presence of a manager at this firm. Assume you know a little information about them, such as their position and line of work.

1) Opener: Start by paying a compliment to the individual, “that tangerine jet set Michael Kors bag is beautiful! Such a perfect color for the Spring isnt it?”

**Wait for a response**

2) Self Introduction:   Tell them where you know them from and then explain who you are and what you’re about. “I’m a senior at Baruch studying Accounting. I saw you at the career fair last week,”..etc

** Elaborate on where you know them from, it could have been at an on campus event, or on the companies website. Make sure to extend your hand out and give a firm handshake**

3) Value Differentiator: What sets you apart?  “I interned for an Accounting firm in India last summer,”..etc

4) Ask an Engaging Question: “Can you tell me more about your company?”

**The elevator may come to a halt at this point kindly ask for a business card and state that you will be in touch**

Keep in mind that your ultimate goal is to build rapport and not to necessarily land an internship or job offer there and then. As with a first date, you real goal is get a second one!

Please follow the links below to the career services at Baruch to gain more information about upcoming events and the services that they offer!

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/careers/

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/spa/careerservices/index.php

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/wsas/academics/corporate_communication/career.html

 

 

03/8/13

Interested in the UN and International Relations?

Baruch students interested in the UN and international relations can be part of the Model UN club on campus. Click here for more information. Students can also participate in “My World.”

“My World” is an interactive, easy and innovative global survey that enlists people around the world to participate in this global survey. In the survey individuals are asked  to choose six out of sixteen possible issues they think would make the most difference in their lives.

Issues include phone and internet access; access to clean water; better health care and access to good education. The ultimate goal of this global survey is to encourage individuals to participate in a process that will end extreme poverty in all its forms in the context of sustainable development. People throughout the world can access MY World by clicking here and vote for the changes that are important for them. Results from MY World will be submitted to the Secretary General of the United Nations. Help set the agenda for 2015. VOTE!

 

 

 

03/1/13

5 Must Have Budgeting Apps for College Students

In the era of mobile technology, apps are relied on in order to increase productivity. They are perfect  for  college students with a busy schedules. Apps on your mobile device can be useful tools in order to control how you spend.

 

1. Budgeting- Managing your money in college can be difficult if you don’t track your spending.Apps like Pocket Budget, can break down your expenses to make sure you don’t go over what you can spend.

 

2. Mobile Banking – Today most banks allow you to “bank”on your mobile device. These functions include checking your balance, transferring money from accounts and even depositing checks! Examples of banks that support these services include Chase and Bank of America.

 

3. Coupons- Saving money is always a good thing .Apps like MobiQpons  detect your  location and find good deals at nearby restaurants, grocery stores and businesses.

 

4. Bill Payment- Late fees are always a hassle to deal with.Billpay apps like Pageonce can make sure that you never miss a payment again.

 

5. Textbooks- One of the most expensive parts of college after tuition and dorm are probably textbooks. They can take a toll on your wallet especially if you’re taking a lot of classes, but apps like TextbookMe can find you the lowest prices on the book you’re looking for.

 

02/28/13
Source:Lindsey Turner via Creative Commons

Great Fashion Deals for College Students

Source:Lindsey Turner via Creative Commons
Source:Lindsey Turner via Creative Commons

Being a college student on a budget can be challenging at times. Often we apply for internships for credit, paid or unpaid to jump start our journey. What everyone emphasizes is your capabilities, resume, experience and skills. However, it is also important to look the part. Here are a few stores that carry items that won’t go over your budget

 

1)  Target

Most people don’t think of clothing when they shop there, Target has been collaborating with famous designers to provide style at affordable prices. One designer Mossimo, has created casual and work clothing for prices ranging between $20 and $40 depending on the item and there is a deal going on now where if you spend $75, you receive a 20% discount. Target has a “Go International” line which features different luxury designers each season for cheaper prices. Their collections are available only 90 days from release, so be sure to check out their website often.

This Mossimo® Women’s Half and Flare Dress is $27.99.

This Mossimo Black® Men’s Dress Pant Back
Zipper Fit is also $27.99.

2) Kohl’s

Kohl’s is another department store that sells different brands of clothing such as Levi’s, Nike, Rock &Republic, Apt. 9 and Simply Vera Wang among others. Two of my favorites at Kohl’s  are “LC Lauren Conrad” and Marc Anthony.

This LC Lauren Conrad Satin Tuxedo is on sale now for $28.

This Marc Anthony Slim-Fit Stretch Spread-Collar Dress Shirt is on sale for $34.99.

3)  Century 21

Century 21 is a famous northeastern based department store that focuses on apparel, accessories, shoes and home décor for women, men and kids. There are a variety of brands ranging from high-end such as Tahari to casual such as Milano. To make it easier for consumers, there is specific link on the website just for professional attire.  Their website features a phrase “Up to 65% off Retail 100% of the time”, promising savings which especially appeals to those with a strict budget.

This PREMISE Ponte Pencil Skirt is on sale for $21.97.

This ANDREW FFEZZA 2 Piece Broken Stripe Suit is on sale for $99.99.

Aside from famous stores such as Forever21, H&M, and Macys that also sell inexpensive stylish clothes, you can visit these department stores to look for unique clothing and create your own style while establishing your career path.

02/26/13
El Anatsui Courtesy of the Akron Art Museum

Come Celebrate Ghana for FREE at The Brooklyn Museum!

El Anatsui Courtesy of the Akron Art Museum
El Anatsui, Courtesy of the Akron Art Museum

At the Brooklyn Museum’s Target First Saturdays, thousands of visitors enjoy free programs of art and entertainment each month, from 5 to 11 p.m.

On March 2nd, parts of Ghana will be explored through a short film titled “An African Election (Jareth Merz, 2011, 89 min), including live performances by Ghana’s own Ria Boss, Zozo Afrobeat and an opportunity to view the immacualtate monumental Works by El Anatsui.

Please follow the link below for further information.
http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/visit/first_saturdays.php

02/18/13

Dispatches from China – Nanjing: An Introduction

Ever considered studying in China? If so, I highly recommend Nanjing.

Although Nanjing often seems to play second fiddle to the better-known cities of Beijing and Shanghai, Nanjing is still a gem of a city, owing to its rich history. Nanjing translates as “Southern capital” – a fitting name considering that the city was the historic capital for various Chinese governments, political movements, and dynasties such as the Taiping Tianguo, the Republic of China, the Six Dynasties, and the Southern Tang and Ming dynasties.

Nanjing is also home to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s resting place. (For those who may not be as familiar with Chinese history, Dr. Sun is considered the founding father of modern China – I’ll speak more on this topic in a future post).

However, take note that Nanjing’s weather is particularly extreme. Nanjing is unofficially known as one of the “oven cities” in China. Oven cities are located in southern China, where summers are particularly and unbearably hot and temperatures consistently peak above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. However, Nanjing is also notorious for freezing cold weather – something I experienced firsthand while living and studying in the city. I would recommend bringing lots of warm clothing. If you go in the spring, the start of the semester will be freezing, and if you go in the fall, the end of the semester will be extremely chilly!  Either way, you’re certain to have a refreshing experience!

Please stay tuned for the next article in this series!

If you ever have a question about study abroad, please visit the Study Abroad Office located at 137 E 25th Street (8th Floor).

Our walk-in hours change throughout the semester, so please have a look at our Twitter account for daily tweets about our office hours here: http://twitter.com/wcibatbaruch.