Westminster College Economics and Business Department Host Mock Interview Event

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. - Westminster College's Department of Economics and Business hosted an alumni panel and an opportunity for majors to participate in mock interviews Nov. 10.

The event was organized by Dr. Daniel Fischmar, professor of economics and business, with assistance from alumni Ben Nelson `06, Christie Nelson `06, Cody Donaldson `12, Mark Drabick `10, and Karen Coulter, department secretary.

Alumni made presentations on establishing careers, options for graduate school, and information on different career fields including: human resources, government and non-profit careers, and finance/accounting. Students were then able to meet and network with alumni during a luncheon.

"This networking event helps students navigate through a difficult employment environment and prepare for life after graduation by interacting with Westminster alumni," Ben Nelson said.

"The alumni event is integral as an aspect for student learning well beyond the classroom," said Alissa Bookwalter `07. "While Westminster provides a solid foundation for student achievement, it is hearing those experiences of alumni that has perhaps the most poignant impact. Successful alumni inspire others to follow in their footsteps and fulfill their dreams."

During the mock interviews students in business attire arrived with résumés and were scheduled for separate interviews with three of over a dozen business professionals, most of whom were Westminster alumni: William Armentrout `12, Ph.D Candidate at West Virginia University; Sam Becherer `12, Schneider Downs; Jackie Faber `08, Alcoa; Jim Giel `74, Dollar Bank; Kenneth Greenfield, United States Navy; Adam Griffith `11, Our Lady of Sacred Heart; Kelly Horn `87, PWC; Tanner Larson `05, SABIC; Richard McKenna `84, Schneider Downs; Sherris Moreira `97; Christie Nelson `06, Rutgers University; Lee Scott `07, Coalition for Christian Outreach; and Stephanie Tracey `11, FedEx Corporation.

The mock interviews help students increase the odds of landing a good job and career after college by improving their interviewing skills, developing their resumes, and learning how to highlight attributes.

"Westminster's alumni provided very practical suggestions on how to clear the hurdles of the current job market," Fischmar said. "Problems, such as a lack of experience or a mismatch of skills and job requirements, can be solved if you know how to frame the issue for a potential employer."

"It's a great opportunity to take advantage of meeting alumni and networking with those that are in my field of interest," said Caitlin Oertly, a senior business administration major. "Overall, the day can be stressful and serious at times; however, it can be a lot of fun and offer a lot of knowledge and insight to students. I hope to continue seeing this event take place in years to come and perhaps come back as an alumna someday."

Oertly is a daughter of Laura Oertly and a graduate of Kane Area High School.

Several members of the administration also attended the event, including President Dr. Richard Dorman, Vice President of Academic Affairs Jesse Mann, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Gloria Cagigas, and Assistant Director of Alumni Relations Cindy Dafler.

"We appreciate the faculty and staff members and our alumni who work to provide these networking and mentoring opportunities for our students," Cagigas said.

Contact Fischmar at (724) 946-7162 or email for additional information.

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