DePaul University Athletics
Networking Night and Mock Interviews a Resounding Success
6/1/2022 12:38:00 PM | ATHLETICS
DePaul alums donate time prepping student-athletes for the real world
CHICAGO – DePaul distance runner Jackson Thomas could not have asked for a better networking mentor than women's basketball season ticketholder and diehard Blue Demon fan Tommy O'Donnell.
When he's not screaming his support for coach Doug Bruno's program from the Wintrust Arena stands, O'Donnell is leading the way in his 38th year at healthcare company Genentech as Market Director in Neurological Rare Disease.
Thomas and O'Donnell were brought together by Athletics Academics Advising (Triple A) in the first of two signature events for Blue Demon student-athletes---Networking Night and Mock Interview Night.
It's a kind of dress rehearsal for college athletes such as Thomas and often their first introduction into the fast-paced world of networking and job interviews.
Quite naturally, the sophomore track and field performer was full of nerves on May 4 as he entered the Sullivan Athletic Center Hall of Fame Foyer. Five professional career zones were set up and Thomas went straight towards Healthcare, Wellness and Science.
"Interacting with Mr. O'Donnell was an incredible experience," Thomas said. "He made me feel comfortable and unrushed, allowing me to introduce myself and even guiding me to clearer responses when I was getting a little flustered. He provided very useful feedback on my introduction---what I could add and a better way of expressing my identity and goals.
"What really got me excited after networking with Mr. O'Donnell was the allure of getting an internship at Genentech. He works in the sales and finance component of Genentech, but his specialty the Rare Neurological Disease department is something I'd like to pursue. In fact, we discussed a new medication that was just developed by Genentech for people who suffer from SMA - Spinal Muscular Atrophy."
Why does O'Donnell donate his time and energy to a school he never attended?
"I volunteer because it energizes me to give back and pay it forward the same way people in my life did when I was a high school and college student," O'Donnell said. "If people want to make a difference in the lives of others, it can be done so in many ways.
"When I meet people like Jackson, I walk away feeling blessed and satisfied that maybe one thing I shared could make a difference in Jackson pursuing his career aspirations.
"Although technology has altered the college landscape, I shared with Jackson what hasn't changed is the characteristics and competencies that make him a successful student-athlete are the same qualities that companies look for when hiring."
It didn't take long for Thomas to follow O'Donnell's lead.
"The very next morning, I emailed Mr. O'Donnell inquiring again about the internship," Thomas said. "I wasn't surprised given how amazing Mr. O'Donnell is that he responded very quickly saying he would be on the lookout for any opportunities."
*****
Mock Interview Night on May 10 ignited another terrific connection. The virtual event united track sprinter Myles Marshall with a former Blue Demon track and field standout, Gabrielle Howard (class of 2017).
No doubt the current student-athlete was inspired by the alum's skyrocketing career.
Howard works on Capitol Hill in the U.S. House of Representatives as the senior legislative assistant for Louisiana Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. where she handles the Member's small business committee, transportation and infrastructure committee along with energy, environment, banking, taxes, education, health care, racial, social, environmental justice and judiciary issues.
She is especially interested in how these issues intersect and impact BIPOC communities (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) while fighting against inequality, injustice, racism and finding policy solutions to combat these issues.
"It was so great interviewing a fellow track athlete!" said Howard who finished second in the long jump and third in the triple jump at the 2017 BIG EAST Outdoor Championships. "I really enjoyed talking with Myles and learning about his journey to DePaul. I saw a lot of similarities between us. Myles is involved in other activities outside of track, but he does not let them get in the way of his success.
"I like that he doesn't define himself as just an athlete and is involved in leadership roles outside of track. Myles' mindset and drive were two of the main things I took away from our interview. I think his positive attitude and leadership skills will take him far."
Marshall came away intrigued by unimagined possibilities.
"First off, I would like to thank the athletic department for providing us with the opportunity to have mock interviews with DePaul alumni in our specific fields," Marshall said. "The experiences and connections I made were some I will never forget.
"When speaking with Gabrielle, she opened my eyes to another side of politics that I had never imagined. When telling her my plan, one of the best tips she gave me was making sure I go straight to law school instead of taking a gap year. As Gabrielle told me about her journey, it made me think about possibly becoming a government official in Atlanta.
"As I reflect on my presentation, I am very satisfied with how I carried myself throughout the entire process. These little things from showing up in your best professional wear to how you speak can make a huge difference in your chances of getting the job."
*****
Women's soccer player Olivia Cooke experienced a bit of a makeover during her mock interview with Dr. Rikhev Kashyap of Rush University Medical Center.
Kashyap offered up advice from sharpening Cooke's resume to making herself more appealing as a job candidate.
"Dr. Kashyap told me I need to focus more on the community service related activities that I've done and to be personable during my interview and give confident answers," Cooke said. "He was asking me questions that would be asked in a real interview and I definitely need to sharpen my answers.
"For example, when asked for three of my strengths and weaknesses, I provided three strengths but drew a blank when it came to naming three weaknesses.
"I do feel as if I presented my best, most appealing self. However, I do have to work on some of my answers and fix my resume."
Cooke was grateful for the practice run.
"It was awesome," she said "He is so experienced and offered me a lot of advice. I was definitely a little nervous at first, but as the interview went on my nerves eased away as I focused on my answers.
"He was so knowledgeable and gave me some good, honest insight on the true world of medicine. Overall, it was a great experience."
*****
Former Blue Demon tennis player and Stripe Financial Services sales representative Tim Cadet conducted a mock interview with Keke Rimmer of women's basketball.
"DePaul provided me a wonderful experience as a student-athlete and I'd like to pass those positives to other students with shared experiences," Cadet said. "I understand the challenges and opportunities of being a student-athlete, so it's fulfilling for me to help them get a head start with some career lessons and advice."
Cadet is married to former Blue Demon track athlete Jessica Rodriguez, a nurse practitioner who like her husband also participated in both events. He said his mock interview as a student was a big help particularly in building a resume.
"I encourage student-athletes to check out companies and industries you have a passion for and reach out, Cadet said. "Call, email, LinkedIn, etc. Don't worry about having all the technical skills required to do the job. Companies will teach you the skills when you start.
"The passion you have will motivate you to keep learning and pushing for greatness. It will also keep you resilient when things get tough.
"As student-athletes, you're already one step ahead of the others competing for jobs. You know how to handle challenges intuitively via your experiences. Articulate your story to hiring managers and you'll win."
Cadet sensed Rimmer's potential for a highly successful career after DePaul.
"It was great getting to know Keke," Cadet said. "She has a passion for helping kids in her community and that's wonderful. We need more people like that, especially nowadays with the current state of mental health during the pandemic.
"I encouraged Keke to spend a little time researching places in her preferred line of work, reach out and introduce herself, tell her story and ask for a place to contribute. As a college athlete, she's a celebrity so everyone will want to hear about her stories and experiences.
"In the real world, college athletes are very rare. She may come across casual players, but rarely anyone who played a sport at her level. That experience gives Keke a unique perspective and skill set and can propel her onto a dream career."
What is Cadet's favorite memory of DePaul?
"Talking with Jill Hollembeak in her office," Cadet said of the former Triple-A advisor who is now Executive Associate Athletics Director. "She was always welcoming, smiling, nonjudgmental and open with me. Early on, as I was making the adjustment to college life, I would share my experiences and challenges with Jill. They were like mini-therapy sessions for me.
"I still remember Jill's positive energy and encouragement to this day. She is an extremely competitive person and really wanted me to be successful as a student-athlete. But what stayed with me forever was her thoughtful care to see me succeed as a person. She also introduced me to my future wife.
"For me, that was incredibly endearing and a large reason why DePaul feels like home. At the time, I didn't truly understand the importance of having that kind of support system and safe haven. Now, I know that it's incredibly rare, precious and shouldn't be taken for granted."
*****
Elizabeth Parrilli played soccer at DePaul from 2015-18 and is now an assistant account executive with the global communications agency Zeno Group. She interviewed junior Alicia Jones who recently finished fourth in the triple jump and ninth in the long jump at the BIG EAST Track and Field Championships.
"It's always felt important for me to give back to my DePaul Athletics community," Parrilli said. "I also know how intimidating it can be making the leap from college into the professional world, and the importance of networking and having mentors as a young professional.
"I definitely wanted to take part so I could help a student-athlete feel more prepared and confident as she gets closer to graduation. I remembered feeling scared myself once I graduated because I still wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do.
"What helped the most was knowing that my friends, family and the people in my life were supporting me and believed in me. I tried my best to share with Alicia the importance of leaning into your DePaul community for support and just making sure to always believe in yourself."
Parrilli is confident Jones will do well pursuing her career.
"From the start of the interview, I could tell Alicia was a hard worker and just a really kind person," Parrilli said. "It was clear that Alicia cared about her sport, but was also genuinely invested in ensuring she was prepared for the beginning of her professional career."
Networking Night Mentors
Jessica Rodriguez, Images Med Spa
Jocelyn Carter, DePaul
Shannon Suffoletto, Embodied Education Institute
Anna Keever, City Kids Inc.
Jonathan Hey, DePaul
Braylen Stevens, MBraced Culture
Brian Livingston, Mark Realty
Jessica Sanborn, DePaul
Mike Offergeld, Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Don Ingle, DePaul
Chris Suffoletto, Baird and Warner
Elizabeth Pinkos, TaxAct
Les Carter, Greshma Partners
Tom O'Donnell, Genentech, Inc.
Cory Barnes, DePaul
Ashley Foster, Cook County Law Office
Tim Cadet, Stripe (Internet Publishing)
Brady Bedeker, ComEd
Mike Garabedian, Walgreens
Mock Interview Night Mentors
Joe Thompson, The Griffing Group
Gabrielle Howard, U.S. House of Representatives
Jen Bruno, J.B. Fitness
Hannah Pulliam, Morning Consult
Caroline Kurdej, Capsim Management Solutions
Evan Armstrong, Viking Coffee
Tim Cadet, Stripe
Jessica Rodriguez, Images Med Spa
Norie Kaufmann, Ernst & Young
Jocelyn Carter, DePaul
Matthew Pope, St. Andrew's School
Michelle Roberts, St. Andrew's School
Bruce Leech, DePaul
Brady Bedeker, ComEd
Mike Garabedian, Walgreens
Dr. Rikhev Kashyap, Rush University Medical Center
Bina Saipi, Walgreens
Aaron Harris, Spot Hero
Penny Perez, Chicago Public Schools
Katerina Jozwiak, RCM Wealth Advisors
Mary Gustafson, STEP Lab
Elizabeth Parrilli, Zeno Group
Shaun Napatal, Grunt Style
Culley Schultz, Roku
Grace Gallagher, Northwestern Mutual
Elizabeth Pinkos, TaxAct
Anna Keever, City Kids, Inc.
When he's not screaming his support for coach Doug Bruno's program from the Wintrust Arena stands, O'Donnell is leading the way in his 38th year at healthcare company Genentech as Market Director in Neurological Rare Disease.
Thomas and O'Donnell were brought together by Athletics Academics Advising (Triple A) in the first of two signature events for Blue Demon student-athletes---Networking Night and Mock Interview Night.
It's a kind of dress rehearsal for college athletes such as Thomas and often their first introduction into the fast-paced world of networking and job interviews.
Quite naturally, the sophomore track and field performer was full of nerves on May 4 as he entered the Sullivan Athletic Center Hall of Fame Foyer. Five professional career zones were set up and Thomas went straight towards Healthcare, Wellness and Science.
"Interacting with Mr. O'Donnell was an incredible experience," Thomas said. "He made me feel comfortable and unrushed, allowing me to introduce myself and even guiding me to clearer responses when I was getting a little flustered. He provided very useful feedback on my introduction---what I could add and a better way of expressing my identity and goals.
"What really got me excited after networking with Mr. O'Donnell was the allure of getting an internship at Genentech. He works in the sales and finance component of Genentech, but his specialty the Rare Neurological Disease department is something I'd like to pursue. In fact, we discussed a new medication that was just developed by Genentech for people who suffer from SMA - Spinal Muscular Atrophy."
Why does O'Donnell donate his time and energy to a school he never attended?
"I volunteer because it energizes me to give back and pay it forward the same way people in my life did when I was a high school and college student," O'Donnell said. "If people want to make a difference in the lives of others, it can be done so in many ways.
"When I meet people like Jackson, I walk away feeling blessed and satisfied that maybe one thing I shared could make a difference in Jackson pursuing his career aspirations.
"Although technology has altered the college landscape, I shared with Jackson what hasn't changed is the characteristics and competencies that make him a successful student-athlete are the same qualities that companies look for when hiring."
It didn't take long for Thomas to follow O'Donnell's lead.
"The very next morning, I emailed Mr. O'Donnell inquiring again about the internship," Thomas said. "I wasn't surprised given how amazing Mr. O'Donnell is that he responded very quickly saying he would be on the lookout for any opportunities."
*****
Mock Interview Night on May 10 ignited another terrific connection. The virtual event united track sprinter Myles Marshall with a former Blue Demon track and field standout, Gabrielle Howard (class of 2017).
No doubt the current student-athlete was inspired by the alum's skyrocketing career.
Howard works on Capitol Hill in the U.S. House of Representatives as the senior legislative assistant for Louisiana Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. where she handles the Member's small business committee, transportation and infrastructure committee along with energy, environment, banking, taxes, education, health care, racial, social, environmental justice and judiciary issues.
She is especially interested in how these issues intersect and impact BIPOC communities (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) while fighting against inequality, injustice, racism and finding policy solutions to combat these issues.
"It was so great interviewing a fellow track athlete!" said Howard who finished second in the long jump and third in the triple jump at the 2017 BIG EAST Outdoor Championships. "I really enjoyed talking with Myles and learning about his journey to DePaul. I saw a lot of similarities between us. Myles is involved in other activities outside of track, but he does not let them get in the way of his success.
"I like that he doesn't define himself as just an athlete and is involved in leadership roles outside of track. Myles' mindset and drive were two of the main things I took away from our interview. I think his positive attitude and leadership skills will take him far."
Marshall came away intrigued by unimagined possibilities.
"First off, I would like to thank the athletic department for providing us with the opportunity to have mock interviews with DePaul alumni in our specific fields," Marshall said. "The experiences and connections I made were some I will never forget.
"When speaking with Gabrielle, she opened my eyes to another side of politics that I had never imagined. When telling her my plan, one of the best tips she gave me was making sure I go straight to law school instead of taking a gap year. As Gabrielle told me about her journey, it made me think about possibly becoming a government official in Atlanta.
"As I reflect on my presentation, I am very satisfied with how I carried myself throughout the entire process. These little things from showing up in your best professional wear to how you speak can make a huge difference in your chances of getting the job."
*****
Women's soccer player Olivia Cooke experienced a bit of a makeover during her mock interview with Dr. Rikhev Kashyap of Rush University Medical Center.
Kashyap offered up advice from sharpening Cooke's resume to making herself more appealing as a job candidate.
"Dr. Kashyap told me I need to focus more on the community service related activities that I've done and to be personable during my interview and give confident answers," Cooke said. "He was asking me questions that would be asked in a real interview and I definitely need to sharpen my answers.
"For example, when asked for three of my strengths and weaknesses, I provided three strengths but drew a blank when it came to naming three weaknesses.
"I do feel as if I presented my best, most appealing self. However, I do have to work on some of my answers and fix my resume."
Cooke was grateful for the practice run.
"It was awesome," she said "He is so experienced and offered me a lot of advice. I was definitely a little nervous at first, but as the interview went on my nerves eased away as I focused on my answers.
"He was so knowledgeable and gave me some good, honest insight on the true world of medicine. Overall, it was a great experience."
*****
Former Blue Demon tennis player and Stripe Financial Services sales representative Tim Cadet conducted a mock interview with Keke Rimmer of women's basketball.
"DePaul provided me a wonderful experience as a student-athlete and I'd like to pass those positives to other students with shared experiences," Cadet said. "I understand the challenges and opportunities of being a student-athlete, so it's fulfilling for me to help them get a head start with some career lessons and advice."
Cadet is married to former Blue Demon track athlete Jessica Rodriguez, a nurse practitioner who like her husband also participated in both events. He said his mock interview as a student was a big help particularly in building a resume.
"I encourage student-athletes to check out companies and industries you have a passion for and reach out, Cadet said. "Call, email, LinkedIn, etc. Don't worry about having all the technical skills required to do the job. Companies will teach you the skills when you start.
"The passion you have will motivate you to keep learning and pushing for greatness. It will also keep you resilient when things get tough.
"As student-athletes, you're already one step ahead of the others competing for jobs. You know how to handle challenges intuitively via your experiences. Articulate your story to hiring managers and you'll win."
Cadet sensed Rimmer's potential for a highly successful career after DePaul.
"It was great getting to know Keke," Cadet said. "She has a passion for helping kids in her community and that's wonderful. We need more people like that, especially nowadays with the current state of mental health during the pandemic.
"I encouraged Keke to spend a little time researching places in her preferred line of work, reach out and introduce herself, tell her story and ask for a place to contribute. As a college athlete, she's a celebrity so everyone will want to hear about her stories and experiences.
"In the real world, college athletes are very rare. She may come across casual players, but rarely anyone who played a sport at her level. That experience gives Keke a unique perspective and skill set and can propel her onto a dream career."
What is Cadet's favorite memory of DePaul?
"Talking with Jill Hollembeak in her office," Cadet said of the former Triple-A advisor who is now Executive Associate Athletics Director. "She was always welcoming, smiling, nonjudgmental and open with me. Early on, as I was making the adjustment to college life, I would share my experiences and challenges with Jill. They were like mini-therapy sessions for me.
"I still remember Jill's positive energy and encouragement to this day. She is an extremely competitive person and really wanted me to be successful as a student-athlete. But what stayed with me forever was her thoughtful care to see me succeed as a person. She also introduced me to my future wife.
"For me, that was incredibly endearing and a large reason why DePaul feels like home. At the time, I didn't truly understand the importance of having that kind of support system and safe haven. Now, I know that it's incredibly rare, precious and shouldn't be taken for granted."
*****
Elizabeth Parrilli played soccer at DePaul from 2015-18 and is now an assistant account executive with the global communications agency Zeno Group. She interviewed junior Alicia Jones who recently finished fourth in the triple jump and ninth in the long jump at the BIG EAST Track and Field Championships.
"It's always felt important for me to give back to my DePaul Athletics community," Parrilli said. "I also know how intimidating it can be making the leap from college into the professional world, and the importance of networking and having mentors as a young professional.
"I definitely wanted to take part so I could help a student-athlete feel more prepared and confident as she gets closer to graduation. I remembered feeling scared myself once I graduated because I still wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do.
"What helped the most was knowing that my friends, family and the people in my life were supporting me and believed in me. I tried my best to share with Alicia the importance of leaning into your DePaul community for support and just making sure to always believe in yourself."
Parrilli is confident Jones will do well pursuing her career.
"From the start of the interview, I could tell Alicia was a hard worker and just a really kind person," Parrilli said. "It was clear that Alicia cared about her sport, but was also genuinely invested in ensuring she was prepared for the beginning of her professional career."
Networking Night Mentors
Jessica Rodriguez, Images Med Spa
Jocelyn Carter, DePaul
Shannon Suffoletto, Embodied Education Institute
Anna Keever, City Kids Inc.
Jonathan Hey, DePaul
Braylen Stevens, MBraced Culture
Brian Livingston, Mark Realty
Jessica Sanborn, DePaul
Mike Offergeld, Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Don Ingle, DePaul
Chris Suffoletto, Baird and Warner
Elizabeth Pinkos, TaxAct
Les Carter, Greshma Partners
Tom O'Donnell, Genentech, Inc.
Cory Barnes, DePaul
Ashley Foster, Cook County Law Office
Tim Cadet, Stripe (Internet Publishing)
Brady Bedeker, ComEd
Mike Garabedian, Walgreens
Mock Interview Night Mentors
Joe Thompson, The Griffing Group
Gabrielle Howard, U.S. House of Representatives
Jen Bruno, J.B. Fitness
Hannah Pulliam, Morning Consult
Caroline Kurdej, Capsim Management Solutions
Evan Armstrong, Viking Coffee
Tim Cadet, Stripe
Jessica Rodriguez, Images Med Spa
Norie Kaufmann, Ernst & Young
Jocelyn Carter, DePaul
Matthew Pope, St. Andrew's School
Michelle Roberts, St. Andrew's School
Bruce Leech, DePaul
Brady Bedeker, ComEd
Mike Garabedian, Walgreens
Dr. Rikhev Kashyap, Rush University Medical Center
Bina Saipi, Walgreens
Aaron Harris, Spot Hero
Penny Perez, Chicago Public Schools
Katerina Jozwiak, RCM Wealth Advisors
Mary Gustafson, STEP Lab
Elizabeth Parrilli, Zeno Group
Shaun Napatal, Grunt Style
Culley Schultz, Roku
Grace Gallagher, Northwestern Mutual
Elizabeth Pinkos, TaxAct
Anna Keever, City Kids, Inc.
Episode 29: Kacy & Jenna
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