Last Wednesday, I was lucky enough to take a trip down to New York City. The trip was free; the food was free; and, the tours were free. I got to see the New York Stock Exchange and watch the bustle of brokers buying and selling stock below me in real-time on the last face-to-face trading floor in the world. I got to see New York City’s 3-1-1 call center and participate in a “test call” that somehow involved Bulgarian and a sprinkler cover for fire hydrants. I had quesadillas, chicken tenders, chili-filled potato skins, and libations along with the chance to chat with the people responsible for the entire day. I even had my one Wednesday class cancelled specifically for this event.
By whose generosity was I able to do all of this for free? The answer is the New York City Chapter of the Rensselaer Alumni Association. They organized and paid for the entire event, which included nearly 40 students, mainly from the Information Technology department. We were able to see the NYSE because Joe Greco ’01, the president of the NYC chapter, is a broker on the floor of the exchange. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications for New York City, which runs the 3-1-1 call center, is Paul Cosgrave ’72. At least 10 other alumni got involved during the day, networking with students and opening up opportunities for internships, co-ops, and full-time jobs.
The RPI alumni network around the world is extensive. According to information on the Rensselaer Alumni Association website, there are over 35 regional and international chapters of alumni ranging from Milwaukee to Phoenix, and China to Venezuela. There are even contacts in Europe, the Dominican Republic, and Jordan. Michael Wellner ’64 is one of the leaders of the Alumni Travel Program and was one of the alumni that helped to lead the NYC trip. He spoke highly of the supportive aspects of the alumni association, even recounting one story in which he helped an alumnus moving into the area get connected and find a place to live.
As an RPI student and as an alumnus, you inherit a wonderful network of connections already pre-made for you. With their assistance, you might find a position or opportunity that exceeds your expectations, or at the very least you’ll hear an amusing story. In my case, I picked a company to work for based on the recommendation of a couple of alumni; and, during the NYC trip, I found out that Wellner’s business cards are made by the very company, VistaPrint, that I’ll begin working for this summer.
The opportunities afforded by the RPI alumni network and the RAA are incredible and can help to place you somewhere doing something you really want to do. Take advantage of their experience, and learn all that you can from them. It’s never too early to start looking at what life will bring when you too are an alumnus.
