Lenore Ciancio, once a SUNY Geneseo student herself, now works as a pharmaceutical sales representative near Albany. Ciancio's responsibilties include teaching physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals about her company's products. She also answers any clinical questions about the product.

I asked Ciancio to offer some advice for students who are about to enter the "real world," or corporate America. She had very good suggestions for those about to enter the workforce.

What you can do while in college

When asked what benefited Ciancio the most while in college she emphasized two topics: networking and experience.

Ciancio said that while at Geneseo, she networked with alumni and the professors within her major's department. She also got to know people in Career Services. She said that these people all helped her find direction.

Also with networking, a student should, "never leave a stone unturned," according to Ciancio. She knows that often students aren't confident enough to initiate business connections or maintain them. However, she strongly suggested it; many business opportunities come down to who you know. After that, your experience and work ethic will prove your worth to any company.

Ciancio stated that experience in the form of internships, positions held and exposure to real world settings helped her prepare for the transition into the business world. One example from her past at Geneseo was when she did the PR for the Department of Theatre and Dance. This experience, Ciancio said, helped her realize what she would want to do in the future that also exercised her strengths. If you don't have experience though, Ciancio said that hard work and an enthusiastic attitude can make up for that. Also, she pointed out, learn from those around you that do have experience, since nothing can really be better than that.

A few more minor pieces of advice while in college from Ciancio: keep up-to-date with how your field of study is constantly changing and find a mentor (or mentors) and continue to keep in touch with him/her (or them).

What to know for the workplace

First job

Ciancio says to keep in mind that your first job is just that - your first job. (So don't worry if it's not exactly what you expected.) She said that each one of her career moves built on the last, leading her to where she is today - happy in her career. She also suggested keeping track of the success you make in each of your positions. When asked what she wish she had done differently in her first job, Ciancio said, "Ask for more money."

 As a new employee...

Ciancio pointed out that as a new employee you will be learning... a lot, and therefore taking more out of the company then you're putting in. She suggested to set the goal of getting up to the same speed as everyone else as soon as possible. She also pointed to work ethic, personal accountability, problem solving skills and enthusiasm as the most important characteristics of a valuable new employee.

A final thought:

Ciancio left me with a final thought, that I found put everything into perspective. She said, "Finding a job is one thing. Finding a company and career you love is a journey."

Good luck with your journey!