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Student Spotlight

Nevaeh Dawkins

Major: Economics Concentration: Finance
Expected Graduation Month & Year: December 2021
Hometown: Rochester, NY
Desired Career Path: To become a financial advisor and provide equal access to financial literacy
  1. What was your experience like searching for and securing an internship/part-time/full-time job/community involvement during the pandemic?
    • My experience searching for employment and internships was very stressful during this pandemic. Over the summer, I graduated with my associate's degree from community college, and I transferred here to Buffalo State as a junior. Throughout my time in community college, I felt once I graduated, I would get a better-paying job more in line with my career goals, but the pandemic put a damper on that. When the pandemic hit, I was fortunate enough to be an essential worker. I was still working at a grocery store, a company I had been with for three years, but they cut many hours. During the fall 2020 semester, I moved here to Buffalo and began working at a temp agency. The temp agency gave me my first experience in a financial institution. After my contract ended, I struggled to find employment again. In my job searching process, I utilized resources and services provided by the Career and Professional Education Center (CAPE).
  2. Share any accomplishments, successes, positive experiences during your experience.
    • I had a great experience upon securing a position (working) at a bank. My manager understood the importance of me completing my education and worked around my class schedule.
  3. In what ways did the Career and Professional Education Center (CAPE) help in your preparation/search? (workshops, event, 1-on-1 services, BengalLink/other resources)
    • The CAPE was a very helpful resource for me. I attended the resume, interview, and cover letter workshops. Twice a week, I checked BengalLink to find new employment and internship opportunities. I got more interviews when I applied to positions listed on BengalLink than when I applied to positions on internet job boards.
  4. Words of wisdom you would like to share with other students?
    • My advice to other students is to not give up regardless of how frustrating their search for employment/ internships might be. Please don't take it hard when you're told "no," but rather look at it as you were told no because there's a better opportunity coming your way. Every week, try to set aside time to apply for opportunities, polish your resumes and cover letters, and review interview techniques.
  5. Desired career plans after graduation?
    • My ultimate goal is to become a financial advisor and provide equal access to financial literacy.
  6. Would you like to include your email address to be featured on our website? (for future outreach and connections with other students and employers)
    • No

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