The Career Ready Great Dane Podcast

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at the NYS Capitol? We talk with Prajeeta Vaidya, a recent NYS Assembly Session Intern about her experience working in a legislator’s office, balancing professional expectations, and how the internship shaped her future goals.

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of UAlbany’s Goldman Sachs Career Readiness Institute. Learn how students are selected, what skills they gain, and how the experience shapes career confidence, networks, and future opportunities. Hear directly from Roberto Peguero, Assistant Director in the CPD office and Jess Massas, a graduating senior, who successfully completed the institute.

What does it take to create real access to career opportunities for students with disabilities? John Robinson from Our Ability joins us to share practical advice for navigating internships, advocating for yourself, and standing out to employers. We also dive into his work with SUNY’s Pathways to Inclusion initiative and how campuses can better support all students in their career journeys.

On today's episode, we are joined by Nathaniel Simons, a May 2023 business grad to reflect on his time at UAlbany and catch up on what he's doing now at Deloitte.

In this episode, we speak with Rob Peguero, Assistant Director in the Career and Professional Development office and current junior, Jumana Ibrahim. Rob leads the Great Danes NYC program and Jumana attended site visits this past January and reflects on her experience and why students should consider attending too!

This episode features Sydney, a May 2024 Atmospheric Science grad. She reflects on her time as a UAlbany student and her life now post-grad. 

In this episode, we’re joined by Adam Rossi from the New York State Department of Civil Service to break down how careers in state government really work. From understanding the civil service process and the NY HELPS initiative to standing out at career fairs and preparing for exams, Adam shares practical advice, clears up common myths, and offers guidance for students interested in public service. If you’ve ever considered working for New York State, this episode is a great place to start.

When students think about career development, they often think internships, resumes, LinkedIn—but what about study abroad? In this episode, featuring Megumi Kim, Assistant Director of Education Abroad and current UA Senior, Sophie Coker, we're talking about how global experiences build real, marketable skills. Intro song by The Grey Room by Boogie Down 

During this episode, we talk about how to not only survive —but thrive—at a  career fair. We feature Jermaine Harris, Associate Director of Employer Relations and Shaun Johnson, a current MBA student. The conversation offers practical advice, real experiences, and encouragement to help students feel prepared, confident, and ready to make meaningful connections.  Intro music is Boogie Down by The Grey Room

On-campus employment is not only a convenient way to earn a paycheck. It's also a way to grow and develop professional skills. Tune in to hear from Albert Maya, Assistant Director of Student Employment and current student and Tour Guide Ambassador, Ashleigh Rushford. Intro music is Boogie Down by The Grey Room 

We feature two current UAlbany students to discuss their impactful internships and their advice for students on becoming career ready.  Intro song "Boogie Down" by The Grey Room

Learn about LinkedIn and how to use it to connect and find opportunities from a student's perspective. Thank you to student Tristen Altime for being on the podcast! Be sure to link with him on LinkedIn.   Intro song "Boogie Down" by The Grey Room