Peirce Connections

Peirce alumnus makes generous gift to the College at annual Spring Reception

2012-05-22T17:15:00.002-04:00

“Two essential ingredients of the bond between alumni and school are pride and gratitude.”

At the Spring Reception on May 21, Peirce alumnus Albert G. Cederstrom, Jr., announced he is making a $50,000 gift to the College to start the “Albert G. Cederstrom and Emilie I. Cederstrom Memorial Fund for Human Resource Management.” This gift is being made in honor of his parents and in appreciation for the role Peirce played in his own professional successes.

A member of the Class of 1943, Mr. Cederstrom announced his gift as he was accepting the Peirce College Alumni Association’s 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award. The Award was bestowed in recognition of the impact he has had on Peirce, his community, and his profession over the years. His contributions to the College have been numerous. In addition to serving on Peirce’s Alumni Association Board of Directors, Mr. Cederstrom has been a generous donor and a dedicated volunteer for decades. In 1996, he was honored as a member of Peirce’s Wall of Fame. Hit play on the video below to watch highlights from Mr. Cederstrom's speech and the announcement of his gift.

Mr. Cederstrom’s many professional achievements were accomplished during a 38-year career with Gulf Oil/Chevron that took him from the Philadelphia area to Houston, Texas. Before retiring in 1986, he held a variety of business analyst, accounting, and human resources positions with the company. It was Mr. Cederstrom’s keen interest in developing the next generation of HR professionals, combined with his respect for Peirce’s Human Resource Management program, which led to his generous $50,000 gift.

During his announcement, Mr. Cederstrom shared his thoughts on the strong feelings he has for his alma mater. “Two essential ingredients of the bond between alumni and school are pride and gratitude. Pride in the quality of education given by the institution. Gratitude by the graduate expressed by annual giving and participation in Peirce programs and activities … The new Peirce alumni are going to be there, equipped to do the work, solve the problems, and provide excellent management.”

We are grateful to Mr. Cederstrom for his demonstration of pride and gratitude. We thank him for his leadership in making a gift that will positively impact so many members of the Peirce learning community on their path to degree completion.

Career Day 2012: Everything you need to know about getting a job

2012-05-21T14:53:00.000-04:00

The following guest post was written by Monica Patterson, CDS graduate intern.

What does it take to get you up bright and early on a Saturday morning? A giant cup of coffee? The smell of breakfast cooking? How about a Career Day packed with the promise of helpful advice from employers, job search resources, and networking with successful professionals?

That did the trick for everyone who came out to our second annual Career Day earlier this month. Hosted by the CDS team and supported by our Alumni Association, the event prepared Peirce students and alumni for entering the job market and securing next-level opportunities. It was a great day, jam-packed with actionable advice about everything from cover letters to salary negotiations, as well as the chance to practice the skills necessary for career advancement.

Two different workshop tracks were presented to fit the needs of attendees in varying stages of their careers. Track 1 ("From Backpack to Briefcase") was designed for entry-level employees, and Track 2 ("Strategies for the Seasoned") for more experienced candidates seeking to advance their careers.

Here are some of the key topics we covered with our entry-level job seekers, or those transitioning to a new field. Whether you were in attendance at Career Day or not, use this as a checklist to make sure you're prepared to enter the professional world.

Business 101: An orientation to the new workplace. As you prepare to enter the professional world, it's important to be prepared with knowledge and understanding of employer expectations, professional boundaries and etiquette, collaboration, and effective communication in the workplace.

Networking 101. Understanding the power of professional networking and how to do it well is a cornerstone to any successful job search. Students and alumni were able to practice networking in a friendly environment. Remember, think outside the box -- your potential network is often far larger than you think!

Crafting a creative job search. Finding a job is a job! Attendees put their job-seeking skills to the test using online job boards and job search tools, as well as social media. We also touched on time management, a crucial factor to a successful job search.

And for those looking to climb the ladder in their current field, we focused on the skills you need to function at a higher level, and how to master them:

Getting out of your own way! The benefits of the motivated mindset. Improving your self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship skills are necessary for personal and professional development. We talked about many unwritten rules and scenarios that play out in your career, and how to power through those situations.

Strategic networking. It's no secret that knowing the right people can help you get a job (or at least a foot in the door). But do you know how to really identify that network and best utilize those relationships? Informational interviews are one great tactic to make the most of your professional relationships. Social media (including LinkedIn!) is also an important tool to cultivate your network for career development.

Advanced interviewing skills. Interviewing is no longer the straightforward question and answer session it used to be. Today, you must be prepared to adjust to varied behavior and situational questions while maneuvering through the more intricate interviewing formats -- phone screens, panels, and even gauntlets. This workshop focused on tactics to skillfully navigate through any type of interview scenario you might face.

Something important to every job seeker, no matter what stage of his career, is translating transferable skills and communicating the full extent of his experience to potential employers. It is imperative that job seekers understand how to align past experience with their future career and be able to effectively demonstrate their relevance.

Last but not least, a special thanks to our employer advisory board -- its members are instrumental in helping us develop the agenda for Career Day. They work with us to identify the gaps between what employers are looking for and what candidates are bringing to the table. This input as well as the feedback from students and alumni ensures that this event presents valuable and relevant information! We'd love to hear your feedback, so leave a comment here with your takeaways from Career Day.

College navigation made easy with the help of the GPS team

2012-05-21T09:00:00.000-04:00

CROSSROADS: Peirce GPS team
is here to help you navigate college

How did we survive before the GPS? Without it, it was too easy to find yourself wandering down the wrong road. Then along came the GPS, making it much harder to get lost anymore! Well, now there’s a GPS for your college experience that provides those same benefits -- it tells you where you are and shows you how to get where you want to go.

The GPS (Guided Peirce Services) team is your college tour guide, from day one until the day you graduate. The team is made up of a group of Peirce experts whose job it is to point you in the right direction and make your college experience more manageable.

If you don’t know where to go, GPS is here to tell you. They’re ready to answer your questions or put you where you need to be to get them answered. The GPS team is essentially a one-stop-shop responsible for connecting you with the appropriate person or department who can help to answer any questions you have. Here is a sample of some of the issues they can help you with:

Registering for class and making schedule adjustments
Assembling paperwork for financial aid, tuition reimbursement, and scholarships -- and then directing you to someone within the Office of Financial Aid who can take it from there
Navigating the student portal and e-course companion
Ordering books
Setting up a Peirce email address
Gaining a Peirce student ID
How to find and get started with any of the following resources, among others:

Workshops
Tutoring
Career Development Services
Walker Center membership
FYI (First Year Initiative) membership
Student Association membership

Answers to any of your questions about succeeding along your college journey!

Here’s how you can reach out:

1-888-467-3472 ext. 9026
Visit the GPS website
Email GPS at GPS@Peirce.edu

Hours:
Monday – Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Any challenge you’re facing, remember you have the GPS team to turn to! They’re your go-to advocates, mentors, liaisons, and problem solvers to point you in the right direction so you can stay on track. So turn on the GPS and make all the right turns to get to your final destination -- a degree!

Get a sneak peek into Commencement 2012 with keynote speaker Patricia Coulter

2012-05-17T09:12:00.000-04:00

We're thrilled to have Patricia Coulter lined up to deliver the keynote address at this year’s Commencement ceremony on June 11, 2012. Pat is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Urban League of Philadelphia, a position she has held since 2002, serving as the first woman to lead the organization.

We had the chance to sit down with Pat for a few minutes during her visit to campus last week. Watch the video below to see what she had to say about meeting Peirce students and how she feels about the upcoming Commencement ceremony.

Pat's career has included leadership positions in a variety of corporate and nonprofit organizations. She has also made her mark as a civic leader in the Philadelphia community, serving on various nonprofit boards and associations.

Her leadership, professional accomplishments, and commitment to public service make her a fantastic candidate to help send our 2012 graduates off into their post-college futures!

What else should you know about Pat? She’s multitalented -- she earned her bachelor’s degree in music from Knoxville College and a Master of Education from the University of Louisville. She was born in Newton, N.C. and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She is the mother of one adult son and currently resides in Philadelphia’s Mt. Airy neighborhood.

Thanks again, Pat, for taking the time out of your busy day to talk with us! We’re all looking forward to hearing you speak at Commencement.

Philadelphia college students celebrate graduation season with Mayor Nutter

2012-05-16T17:23:00.001-04:00

On Friday, May 11, 14 Peirce students from the 2012 graduating class joined Mayor Michael Nutter; U.S. Congressman Chaka Fattah; City of Philadelphia Chief Education Officer Dr. Lori Shorr; former lead singer of Sister Sledge, Kathy Sledge; and other students and educators from across the region at a citywide graduation celebration.

PEIRCE GRADUATES: Members of the class of 2012
pose with Mayor Michael Nutter during the citywide graduation celebration

The event honored Philadelphians who have earned their college degree and celebrated the city’s focus on education and degree attainment. Among attendees representing Peirce College were Atiya Goldsmith-Irby, the 2012 Commencement Student Speaker, as well as Daria Ward, one of Peirce’s eldest graduates.

To view more pictures from the event -- including photos of Kathy Sledge’s performance of “We Are Family” -- visit the Peirce Facebook page!

PEIRCE PRIDE: Swapping the black commencement gowns
for some school colors

How to get a job from an internship: Avoid these common internship mistakes

2012-05-15T13:24:00.001-04:00

INTERNSHIP BLUNDERS: Avoid these mistakes to
increase your chances for getting the full-time job

The fact is, internships can be a crucial part of every job seeker’s resume. Not only can full-time jobs be hard to come by in this economy, but an increasing number of companies are offering internships as a way to see if an applicant will be a good full-time fit down the road. If you are able to snag a coveted internship, make sure you’re putting your best foot forward and avoiding some of the most common pitfalls interns can fall into.

Ritika Trikha, of U.S. News & World Report, asked for my perspective for her article about the biggest mistakes interns can make. She shared eight common blunders every intern should avoid if they want to make a positive impression.

To read my recommendations and get more tips to make the most of your internship experience, click over to Ritika’s article. What have you learned from your own internship experiences? If you have more advice to share with other students, leave it here in a comment!

ACBSP reaffirms the quality and excellence of Peirce’s business degree programs

2012-05-14T12:39:00.000-04:00

The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has reaffirmed our Business Administration degree program accreditation, which we’ve held since 2002. ACBSP also granted accreditation for our new Accounting degree program, one of only seven in the country to receive accreditation separate from the business program.

I’ve talked before about how colleges get accredited and why it’s important to students, alumni, and the entire institution. For a refresher, the ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education programs. The organization promotes continuous improvement and recognizes teaching excellence in the accreditation of business education programs around the world. The ACBSP has accredited over 330 U.S.-based business programs and over 70 business programs outside the U.S.

Peirce College is one of just 32 colleges and universities worldwide with a business program accredited by ACBSP at both the associate and baccalaureate levels. This is a testament to our commitment to quality education as well as our efforts to provide superior student support services. Thank you to all who were involved in making this happen -- it takes a true team effort to continue to achieve this recognition.

Secrets of getting the job revealed by Philadelphia employers at Peirce College event

2012-05-11T11:58:00.000-04:00

SECRETS TO SUCCESS: Philadelphia employers
share advice for how to land the job

It’s extremely rare that you get to hear from the people who decide what can make or break an interview, or even keep you from ever getting your foot in the door. But those secrets were revealed for all at a recent event hosted by Peirce’s Career Development Services.

Have you ever wondered how to make a great impression on an employer? Or wanted to know why you got passed up for a job that seemed like the perfect match for your skills and experience? What if you’ve been in the same industry for 20 years but are thinking about a career transition -- where do you start?

Employers from across the Philadelphia region answered these questions and more at our recent Human Resources Panel Discussion. We want to arm you with the skills you need to translate your career-related degree into a job. That’s why we brought in the people who can best answer all of your questions about landing the job -- the employers! Here’s who we heard from:

Vaneeda McDonald-Clyburn, Manager of Labor Relations, Philadelphia Gas Works (Peirce ‘06)
Karl Fritz, Director of Business Operations, Philadelphia Zoo (Peirce ‘06)
Deb Weinstein, Vice President of Human Resources, GlaxoSmithKline
Barry James, Technical Support Manager, Osisoft (Peirce ’83 and ’07)
Kelly Davis, Information Systems Program Manager, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Tiffanie McFadden, HR Director, Cintas Corporation
Chris Solecki, Director of Human Resources and Legal Affairs, Givnish Family Funeral Home

Our panel talked about employers’ expectations; what they look for in a cover letter, resume, and during the interview; and the skills employees need to remain competitive in the workplace. Attendees asked questions and heard advice on career change, being laid-off, and how to improve your job search and stand out from the crowd of job seekers.

And here’s some good news for anyone who missed it -- we captured it all on camera! Want to learn how to stand out from other job candidates? Watch the video below for highlights from our HR Panel Discussion.

What we heard loud and clear from our employer panel was the importance of being targeted and strategic in everything you do. The job search can be a daunting process, but when the time is right and the opportunity is the right match, it will work out! So be patient, be strategic, and don’t forget to use all of the resources at your fingertips.

New full-time, morning class schedule allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 4 years

2012-05-11T10:32:00.000-04:00

Every student has different learning styles, goals, and schedules that influence the type of degree program that works best for them. That’s why we’re now offering our popular bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in a new daytime program format. The program features a full-time schedule of morning classes that makes it possible for students to complete their bachelor’s degree in four years while still balancing other work, family, and life responsibilities.

The new program is tailored to the needs of students looking to study full time within Peirce’s nontraditional atmosphere, which features a supportive environment, career-related degree programs, and personalized attention. The new, daytime program format allows students, who want to attend college full time and complete their degree in four years, a way to access and benefit from this unique learning environment.

Check out the press release we issued for more details. The program will begin on August 27 at Peirce’s campus in Center City Philadelphia.

If you have any questions about this new program, contact the Admissions Office at 888.467.3472, ext. 9214.

How the benefits of college scholarships can last long after graduation

2012-05-10T13:58:00.000-04:00

WELCOME: Peirce President James J. Mergiotti
addresses scholarship recipients and contributors

Keeping education accessible and affordable means making sure every one of our students can earn their degree with as little debt as possible. One way we set our students up for success is by maintaining reasonable tuition rates and providing scholarships that enable students to owe less after they graduate. These scholarships are made possible thanks to many generous contributors. Over the course of the past year, we were able to distribute $2.4 million of institutionally funded aid to Peirce students!

Last week, Peirce’s second annual scholarship reception celebrated that generosity. It was a chance to bring everyone together to honor the achievements of our student scholarship recipients and express gratitude to the contributors who have invested in our students’ futures through the College’s various scholarship programs.

Peirce President James J. Mergiotti welcomed the attendees, and two student speakers then stepped to the podium to share how their scholarships have helped them fulfill their educational goals.

SCHOLARSHIP SUCCESS STORIES: Sheena Goodman
and Alex Sullivan talk about the benefits of scholarships

One of these students was Sheena Goodman, who is majoring in Healthcare Administration and Management and plans to graduate in 2013. She talked about the impact scholarships have had on her education. As the recipient of last year’s FYI, Alumni, and the Board of Trustees Scholarships, Sheena has been able to take additional classes, use less student loan money, and reduce the debt she’ll have upon graduating.

As she shared with attendees on Tuesday evening, the financial support has allowed Sheena to focus on what’s important: “Now that financing my education isn’t my main concern and I can focus more on my classes, I’ve been able to exceed above and beyond in my studies and center my attention on what’s important … graduating with honors!”

Alex Sullivan also shared his experiences, talking about how receiving the Paralegal degree program scholarship in late 2010 helped him to make the initial financial transition back to school. After earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Arcadia University in 2009, Alex went on to work in the business world for about two years. But it wasn’t long before he decided to return to school at Peirce to pursue a paralegal certification and realize his dreams of entering the legal profession. He recently completed the courses for his post-bachelor’s certificate and will graduate in June! Looking ahead, Alex plans to put his post-bachelor’s certificate to use in the field of law, and perhaps attend law school.

Alex and Sheena encouraged all Peirce students to take advantage of the different scholarship opportunities that the school has to offer. And there are many! During Tuesday’s reception, we recognized the winners of the following 15 scholarships:

Alumni Scholarship
Angelo E. DiAntonio Accounting Award
Annual Mayor’s City of Philadelphia Scholarship
Arcadia Scholarship
Arthur J. Lendo Endowed Scholarship Fund
First Year Initiative Scholarship
J. Linford Snyder ’33 Scholarship
Peirce College Board of Trustees’ Scholarship
Peirce College Degree Program Scholarships
Peirce College Leaders Scholarship
President’s Scholarship
Pennsylvania National Guard Scholarship
Raymond L. Palzer ’52 Scholarship
W.W. Smith Charitable Trust Scholarship
Willie C. Clifton Jr. ’85 Scholarship

TRANSFORMING LIVES: Congratulations to all of this year's scholarship recipients!

Every one of these scholarships plays a role in transforming lives through education. If you’re interested in making a contribution to a scholarship, call the Office of Institutional Advancement at 215.670.9323. Students interested in exploring scholarship opportunities can contact the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about the scholarships Peirce offers.

On behalf of the entire Peirce community, I’d like to again thank our generous donors for your continued support in making educational dreams a reality for our scholarship recipients.

Countdown to Commencement 2012

2012-05-09T15:07:00.000-04:00

COMMENCEMENT CELEBRATION: Looking ahead to
Peirce College Commencement 2012 at the Kimmel Center

Countdown to Commencement 2012 has begun! On Monday, June 11, we’ll be returning to The Kimmel Center to celebrate the class of 2012. Here are some highlights and things to remember as you prepare to join the ranks of Peirce College alumni!

Soundtrack to Commencement: This one might sound familiar! For the second year in a row, Peirce students have chosen “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” by McFadden and Whitehead to be the closing song at Commencement 2012.

Student Speaker: The Commencement Committee is pleased to announce that Atiya Goldsmith-Irby has been selected as the Student Commencement Speaker for this year’s ceremony. Atiya is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in Entrepreneurship/Small Business Management. She is the president of Peirce’s Kappa Nu chapter of Delta Mu Delta, the International Honor Society in Business Administration. She has served as a committee member for the Community College of Philadelphia Alumni Association, where she created a book voucher awards program and established the Goldsmith-Irby Scholarship. Atiya has also volunteered as a committee planning member for the American Heart Association. She and her husband, James Irby, are the proud parents of Malik, Wysem, and Anera. In her spare time, Atiya enjoys listening to music, reading and swimming. We can’t wait to hear from her at Commencement!

Keynote Speaker: Patricia Coulter, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Urban League of Philadelphia, will deliver the keynote address. Just last week, she stopped by to get to know some of our students, faculty, and staff. She also took some time to talk with us about her visit and why she’s looking forward to speaking at Commencement 2012 … stay tuned to the blog for a video of our interview with Pat!

Caps and Gowns: Caps and gowns are on sale now through May 18, available through my.peirce.edu under the My Classes tab, or in the Business Office during Business Office Hours.* The cost for cap, gown, tassel, and hood is $40, with an additional $11 shipping and handling fee if you order online.

*Business Office Hours: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tickets for Family and Friends: Once a cap and gown have been purchased, graduates may request up to eight tickets for their guests. Ticket requests can be made at my.peirce.edu under the My Classes tab. Please keep in mind that all guests are required to have tickets and no extra tickets are available! We’ll set up a ticket swap message board on the Peirce College Facebook page for those who want to offer up extras they won’t be using.

Graduation Portraits: Herff Jones will be providing services for any graduate wishing to purchase graduation portraits. Students will receive a mailing with details or can go to www.ouryear.com to find out about services and to schedule an appointment. When scheduling an appointment, please enter school code: 87148. Herff Jones will be on campus for graduation photos on May 10 from 5 to 9 p.m., May 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and June 11 from noon to 5 p.m. All photography sessions will take place in College Hall, room 65.

Announcements, Frames, and Rings: Graduates can also visit the Herff Jones website for information about ordering graduation announcements, diploma frames, and college rings. For additional information about diploma frames, contact the Business Office at 888.467.3472, ext.9600, or visit the Framing Success website.

Open House and Receptions: On Monday, June 11, students and guests are welcome to participate in a tour of Peirce College. Tours will run every 30 minutes beginning at 1 p.m. and ending at 4 p.m.

Share your stories: We want to hear about what your experience at Peirce has meant to you! How do you feel about the upcoming graduation ceremony? Did you think this day would never come? What is your most memorable moment from your time at Peirce? Share your pride and your accomplishments here in a comment and we’ll round up those sentiments in a future blog post to capture the emotions of graduation -- be sure to include your name, degree, and expected graduation date!

We are so excited to celebrate your achievements and make this a special day for you, your family, and friends! Remember to check the Commencement website for updates. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below, email me, or call me at 888.467.3472, ext. 9265.

Why LinkedIn matters now more than ever

2012-05-08T14:27:00.000-04:00

What is the biggest mistake you can make on your LinkedIn profile? Is it appropriate to connect with someone on LinkedIn if you’ve never met in person? Just like networking offline, networking on LinkedIn has its own etiquette and set of do’s and don’ts. We asked Robb Pardee some of these frequently asked questions, and captured his answers so everyone could benefit from his expertise!

Watch the video below to catch our interview with Robb, who spoke to us before he presented at our recent LinkedIn seminar. He gives his top tips for how to optimize your LinkedIn profile, and dives into why LinkedIn is so crucial to career success, how companies recruit on LinkedIn, and why it is important to every professional -- no matter what field you’re in!

Do you follow these best practices? If you have any other questions for Robb, ask them here in a comment!

Peirce grad’s community service shines in Philadelphia

2012-05-07T10:49:00.000-04:00

MAKING AN IMPACT: Peirce alumna Fareeda Mabry
changes lives through community service

“I was a kid when I walked in [to Peirce] and a woman when I walked out.”

That’s according to Fareeda Mabry, a member of the Peirce College class of 2002, who has taken her degree and used it as a tool in pursuing her life’s work of making a tangible impact on her community.

She’s now the Parent and Community Manager for the Family Student Resource Center at Universal Bluford Charter School, one of the Philadelphia-based charter schools sponsored by Universal Companies. Through her work with the Resource Centers, Fareeda puts her passion for community service and her education to work in providing support to students, as well as their parents and guardians, identifying and solving problems before they reach crisis level.

But her impact isn’t just felt in the classroom. She supports the students and families she works with in many ways beyond the academic, offering support in their personal lives. Whether establishing a community food bank at a school, comforting a child whose family member has been shot, or serving parents who have their own issues with illiteracy or unemployment, Fareeda’s work takes a holistic approach to student success.

Fareeda acknowledges the important role that Peirce played in the development of her social consciousness. She credits her classroom experience with realizing the power one person has to create positive change and make an impact. “The first time I really understood politics was in class at Peirce … I had heard the buzzword, but really started to conceptualize it then.”

A longstanding community leader, Fareeda has been a candidate for elected office, an activist at Olney High, and a social entrepreneur. She recently founded an initiative called Operation Warm Hearts to collect blankets for the homeless in Philadelphia, and uses social media -- including her own blog -- to highlight important issues of the day. She is a model of the power one person can have in improving the world.

Fareeda exemplifies how to leverage your education to be a part of the solution to critical problems affecting our society. The benefits of lifelong learning extend far beyond the classroom. Fareeda’s education has transformed not only her own place in her community, but the lives of so many others as well.

There is no better way to illustrate the power of education to transform lives than through the stories of alumni like Fareeda. If you’re wondering if you can change your life, and the lives of others, consider Fareeda’s story and know that you can do this too!

Advice for transferring your skills to make a career change

2012-05-04T13:05:00.002-04:00

Changing careers is one of the biggest reasons adult learners go back to school. But there are more factors that come into play for setting yourself up on a successful new professional path. I talked about a couple of them with Metro reporter Julia West. She shared some of them in her article on tips for making a mid-life career change.

CHANGING CAREERS: Advice for making the switch

Whether you have a long-held dream or are just starting to explore the options out there for you, it’s important to think carefully about all of the risks and rewards so you make the right choice. Consider some of the fastest-growing industries with the most job opportunities in the coming years, as well as how your current skills will transfer.

And remember to use your support system as you explore new career paths -- friends, family, professors, mentors, the Career Development Services team -- we’re all here to help whether you need professional advice, emotional support, or help best-positioning your experience on your resume and cover letter to translate to your new field.

Resources and highlights from seminar on how to use LinkedIn for career success

2012-05-03T13:10:00.003-04:00

A big thank you to everyone who came out to last week’s LinkedIn workshop featuring Robb Pardee, one of the social network’s recommended experts. The two sessions were packed with attendees who asked many great questions about leveraging LinkedIn for career success.

One of the resources Robb shared was a career checklist for leveraging LinkedIn for your job search. He posted the checklist to his website to help attendees keep moving forward on using LinkedIn effectively, so be sure to drop by and download it there if you missed the seminar or left your copy on your chair.

Robb also covered the following:

The Value of LinkedIn: why you should use it and what makes it the go-to online platform for professional networking
Personal Branding: designing your profile, building credibility, expanding your network, and communicating to your network
Job Search: developing your strategy, searching job postings on LinkedIn, identifying potential employers through company search, and joining groups
Managing LinkedIn: how to filter all the information through home page settings, LinkedIn tools, RSS feeds, email updates, and third party applications

Stay tuned for more highlights from the workshop. We’ll have a video interview with Robb about the top tips for using LinkedIn to accelerate your career, a video of the full seminar, and additional resources for attendees as well as anyone who missed it!

From Palestine to Philadelphia: One professor’s worldwide mission to educate

2012-04-30T15:41:00.000-04:00

THE TRAVELING PROFESSOR: A Palestine native, Ahmed Omar
is now the Program Manager of the Peirce Accounting program

How much does education mean to you? For Ahmed Omar, it was important enough to leave his family and travel halfway across the world to earn his degree.

As you might know, Ahmed -- a Peirce grad himself -- joined us in June 2011 as Program Manager and Assistant Professor in our new Accounting degree program. But before he found his way to Peirce, he had to overcome the war and politics in his home country of Palestine that were standing in the way of his dreams of a college education.

Ahmed wrote a post about his journey from Palestine to Philadelphia and how he found his way back to Peirce. Read on to learn about how his experiences in Philadelphia enabled him to achieve his educational dreams.

From the day I arrived in the United States, Peirce College has played a huge part in my journey…

My name is Ahmed Omar, and I am the Accounting Program Manager at Peirce College. I am a new member to the Accounting Program faculty; however, I am not new to Peirce College. I came to the United States of America in the year 2000, from the war-torn country of Palestine. I left behind my mother and my 9 brothers and sisters. My main goal was to complete the education that was cut short by war and politics, and support my family back home. The university I was attending was closed indefinitely because of the violence and bloodshed. It was no longer safe to make the daily commute to work and school, and people were not willing to take the risk of leaving their homes and getting killed in the street.

I was afforded the opportunity to come to the United States of America to help my brother with his restaurant franchises in the tri-state area, which I agreed to do, as long as I was able to attend school to earn my degree. Education is truly a privilege that many take for granted. The deprivation of freedom and opportunity to complete my education is what has taught me to appreciate and understand the importance of a good education. It has driven me to become dedicated to improving the educational opportunities and experiences of others.

When I came to the United States, I began working with my brother in the Philadelphia area. I wanted to waste no time, so the very first week I was here I went searching for universities and colleges that I could attend, while at the same time help my brother without creating a conflict. I found Peirce College. I registered for the Business Administration, concentration in Accounting program, and attended classes the very next day. I graduated in 2003, with a bachelor’s degree. It felt great to earn the degree, but I was not satisfied. I felt that I could do more. So, I researched master’s programs in the Philadelphia area and found LaSalle University. I worked very hard, and completed my Master’s in Business with a Concentration in Accounting by May 2005.

At that time, I was still working with my brother and putting in very long hours. I was obligated to stay connected to school, education, and helping others. I applied to various community colleges and colleges in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I was hired as an adjunct instructor at many different institutions, where I taught business and accounting courses. I managed to run multiple franchise locations at the same time. I was very busy. I got married in 2003 to my wife Miriam, and had my first daughter Aya in 2006.

I became a full time instructor at Burlington County College, and began my DBA journey with Argosy University in 2008, with a concentration in Accounting. I am currently in the dissertation phase, and plan to graduate with a DBA in May 2012. I participated in many different programs to better Burlington County College and the programs that they offered. I became a Certified Fraud Examiner and was a member of the SCORE Council, where I counseled small-business owners and soon-to-be entrepreneurs. My son, Adam, was born in 2009. At this point, I earned a certificate and became a Certified Peer Reviewer for online courses with Quality Matters (QM), and even worked closely with McGraw-Hill to create a textbook and program that was custom for BCC. I reviewed accounting textbooks that McGraw-Hill offered.

I was proud to participate in the development of courses, improvement of programs, and in the creation of scholarship and awards for exceptional students at BCC. It was nice to see the awards and scholarships go to dedicated and deserving students. I felt that I could offer more for business and accounting students and applied for the position at Peirce College in Philadelphia, to become the Program Manager for the Accounting Program. When offered the job, I knew that it was the right thing to do to give back to the community and school that provided me the foundation to grow to where I am today. I am confident that Peirce College is the place for me, and every other sincere, dedicated business/accounting student.

One of my main goals here at Peirce is to align with Peirce College’s mission to provide quality education by taking the Accounting Program to a higher level within the region.

The cost of not going to college

2012-04-30T11:49:00.001-04:00

What is the value of college, really? For many adult learners, earning a degree is not without sacrifice – the cost, the time investment, the challenge of balancing school with family. But the real question is, can you afford not to go?

I recently commented on an article that senior editor Derek Thompson wrote for The Atlantic about how the only thing more expensive than college is not going to college. The benefits of education are indisputable -- job opportunities and increased income to name just a few. But that doesn’t mean the cost isn’t a challenge for many students.

The article lays out some interesting facts and figures about how the cost of education compares to alternatives, such as not going to college or investing your money elsewhere. It also highlights some studies that support the argument that college is indeed worth the investment. This is all important to consider. However, Derek made one particular point that really resonated with me.

“Does a four-year university make sense for every student? Probably not. Is the modern on-site college education necessarily the ideal means to deliver training after high school? Maybe not. Vocational training and community colleges deserve a place in this discussion. And we happen to be living through a quiet revolution in higher education.”

It’s not about college at any cost. It’s about going to college when, where, and in a format that is right for each individual student. Not every learning style works for every student. Not everyone is prepared to be a college student at the same point in life. And every student’s financial aid needs are different.

The lesson? Every student should take a close look at a variety of schools, degree programs, and learning formats. Consider what career you want to pursue and how a degree might help you succeed. Talk to financial aid counselors who can help make college affordable for you.

Education is an investment in your future, so don’t let the cost get in the way of achieving your dream of earning a degree.

Life advice for college graduates from The Work Buzz

2012-04-27T13:30:00.000-04:00

Graduation is a time of accomplishment, change, and decisions about what comes next in your personal and professional life.

Debra Auerbach, a writer for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz, tapped me for my advice to college graduates for her article about what students should be thinking about post-graduation.

The article highlights some great advice from professionals across a variety of industries with different backgrounds. They all have one thing in common -- the benefit of hindsight. Looking back, it’s easy to think of all the things you should or could have done to set yourself up for the career and future you’re striving for. So I encourage all of you graduating seniors (and everyone else!) to give it a read and learn from the experiences of others to make your transition from college to the real world a smooth one.

COULDA, WOULDA, SHOULDA: What college grads should think
about as they prepare for the future

And above all -- congratulations and best of luck in the future!

Paralegal honor society inducts new members

2012-04-24T13:04:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to the newest members of Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX), Peirce’s chapter of the National Paralegal Honor Society sponsored by the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE).

20 new members were inducted at a ceremony held on Friday, April 20. These paralegal students join the inductees from last year’s inaugural induction ceremony.

Newest members of the Peirce College chapter of LEX, the National Paralegal Honor Society

Pictured left to right, front row: Mary T. Husband, Tara Lee Wallace, Kelly Ann Schrader, Babette Pace, DeShayla Avant, Dorothy Y. Gatewood, Robin L. Roush, Lisa Lynne Zagler, and Ann Marie Jennifer Daly. Back row: Laura M. Schroeder, Karen E. Wheeler, Abigail Venezia, Alexander W. Sullivan, Andrea Providence, Diana N. Soukhaphonh, Marissa Williams, Patricia J. Weightman, Lauren Marie Cockley, and Sheila Marie Skinner-Martens.

To be eligible for LEX membership, inductees must have a cumulative and major GPA of 3.5 or higher within the Paralegal Studies bachelor’s degree program, or the Post-Bachelor Certificate program. The honor society connects paralegal students to national scholarship, networking, and employment opportunities.

To all of our LEX members -- keep up the great work! And finally, I’d like to recognize our terrific keynote speaker, Peirce alumna Babette Pace. You’re likely familiar with her name -- Babette is an active and successful member of the paralegal community here in Philadelphia, and she has remained well-connected to Peirce since graduating from our Paralegal Studies degree program.

It was our pleasure to name Babette as an honorary inductee to our chapter at this year’s ceremony, a recognition of her many achievements and ongoing contributions to Peirce!

What NOT to do in your first 3 months on the job

2012-04-16T09:38:00.002-04:00

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: How to start off on the right foot
in your new job

You perfected your resume, nailed the interview, and got the job. Congratulations! Now, don’t mess up.

I recently spoke with CareerBliss.com writer Ritika Trikha about what NOT to do during the first few months in your job. She shares nine helpful tips to keep in the back of your mind as you embark on a new career to ensure you make a great impression and hit the ground running.

This isn’t meant to scare you! Your new position is likely well-deserved, and you should be proud of the achievement. But while you might be breathing a sigh of relief because the interview process is over, remember that your new employers are still getting to know you. That period of making a good first impression is just getting started.

Jump over to Ritika’s article to see what I had to say about making sure you don’t step on any toes as you’re learning the ropes. There’s great advice from employers, recruiters, and other HR experts who’ve seen it all.

Peirce College’s mobile app makes the short list for Philadelphia’s Emerging Technologies for the Enterprise Project of the Year Award

2012-04-13T16:14:00.000-04:00

WINNING INNOVATION: Bill Ahern poses with
Peirce's mobile app award nomination

Kudos to the entire IT team for being recognized for its Peirce mobile app! Peirce’s app was nominated for the Project of the Year Award at the 7th annual Emerging Technologies for the Enterprise Conference in Philadelphia.

The award recognizes the “coolest, most innovative enterprise software” developed in the Philadelphia region and celebrates the ability of software development to help an organization thrive and grow. Bill Ahern, our Peirce College Programmer, and I presented Peirce’s app to the judges and a packed house of applicants earlier this week, and were awarded first runner up.

Our app offers fast, mobile access to features such as student course lists, faculty and staff directories, campus overviews and directions, and the Peirce College blog. It was selected as a finalist out of a large field of applicants and was the only technology coming out of a non-programming or software company.

I’m proud of what our team from Pine Street accomplished, in partnership with Barbella Digital, keeping pace with the pack of larger organizations with significant development resources. The winner of this year’s ETE Project of the Year Award has offices across the U.S., and substantially larger resources.

The nomination was a well-deserved nod to the work of the Peirce IT team to bring innovation and new technologies to Peirce. A special thanks to Bill, Dennis Barbee, Stefan Georgiev, and Dan Barbella for all of their hard work.

Technically Philly covered the event, where members of the enterprise IT field from up and down the East Coast came together for the awards and two days of lectures and discussion from industry experts. One of the best parts of the conference was Mayor Nutter’s surprise visit.

Nice work to the Peirce IT team! And if you want mobile access to everything Peirce, be sure to download our app for your smartphone or tablet -- you can find it at the Apple App Store or Android Market.

Come to a free LinkedIn workshop to accelerate your career

2012-04-12T16:55:00.002-04:00

LINK UP WITH YOUR NEW CAREER: Don't miss
this free LinkedIn workshop

Are you using LinkedIn effectively for career success? If you’re like most people, you’re probably not. So here’s your chance to learn how to use it to its fullest potential. Come to Peirce College’s free workshop, How LinkedIn Can Help You Get a Job Faster, to learn why and how you can leverage LinkedIn to improve your career and job search process.

At Peirce College, we believe in providing lifelong learning opportunities to all Philadelphians. It’s never too late to change your life, and we want to offer the support and resources you need in order to develop the new skills to do just that! Join renowned LinkedIn expert Robb Pardee as he reveals the strategies for establishing a powerful online presence using LinkedIn, the world's largest professional network. The free workshop is open to the entire community but seating is limited, so read on to find out how to reserve your spot today!

LinkedIn is the most important social network for establishing a professional online presence. It’s a platform to represent yourself in the best light to prospective employers who are trying to get a handle on who you are as a job candidate. When used well, it is a powerful networking tool for fostering career growth.

In this fun, fast-paced session, you will learn how to:

Create your own personal brand to represent yourself professionally
Build a dynamic profile to illustrate your strengths and credentials
Expand your professional network and increase your visibility
Increase your reach for job opportunities
Communicate effectively with your network

Plus lots of tips, tricks, and do's and don'ts for using social media!

WHO:
Robb Pardee is a nationally recognized expert on LinkedIn and social networking for business, and the founder and president of Strategic Leadership Coaching, a career and leadership development firm in Warminster, Pa. He has over 13 years of experience as a counselor, trainer, and coach. His passion is helping people to reach their potential by overcoming internal and external obstacles.

WHEN:
Thursday, April 26 2012
Two sessions: 3 – 5 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m.

WHERE:
Peirce College
1420 Pine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Space is limited and available to registered attendees only, so register NOW to reserve your spot at http://peircelinkedinevent.eventbrite.com/. Please indicate which time session you would like to attend when registering, and be aware that registration closes on April 25!

Questions? Contact Amanda Frey at 888.467.3472, ext. 9476 for more information. We hope to see you there!

Will you be the next Peirce Idol? Sign up today to audition to sing at Commencement 2012!

2012-04-10T14:47:00.002-04:00

It’s that time again … time to find our next Peirce Idol! For the third year, we’re going straight to our student body to find the singer who will perform the national anthem at Peirce Commencement 2012.

Do you think you have what it takes to become Peirce Idol 2012? Here’s your chance -- audition times are now being scheduled!

On Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26, Peirce College will audition students to sing the national anthem at Commencement on Monday, June 11.

If you’d like to share your talent with this year’s graduating students and their families, email us with your name and phone number. A member of the Peirce Idol search team will contact you to schedule an audition date and time.

OH SAY CAN YOU SING? Peirce Idol winner Morraye Berrios

sings at Peirce Commencement 2011

Auditions are held on campus before a panel of judges composed of Peirce faculty and staff. Please note that tryouts will be video recorded so that your peers can watch, listen, and vote to choose their Peirce Idol of Commencement 2012. More details about where to watch the audition video and the voting process will be coming soon here on the blog, so stay tuned!

Start warming up your vocal chords and make sure to sign up by April 20 to reserve your chance to compete!

Our Peirce Idol competition has turned up great talent over the past few years. If you’re thinking of auditioning, you can catch the 2010 and 2011 auditions here on our blog in case you missed them.

The winner of Peirce Idol 2010 was Raymond DeShields, a married father of three pursuing his degree in Business Administration from Peirce. Our Commencement 2011 vocalist was Morraye Berrios, also a Business Administration student. They both gave us memorable performances, and it is always a special experience to have one of our own step up to sing the national anthem!

Peirce welcomes new members to board of trustees

2012-04-06T12:32:00.000-04:00

Joseph T. Steuer

Mark Edwards

Welcome to the newest additions to the Peirce College Board of Trustees, Mark Edwards and Joseph T. Steuer.

Mark is president and CEO of the Philadelphia Workforce Development Corporation (PWDC), the fiscal agent for the city for federal and state employment and training funds. Joseph is Chief Financial Officer of The Philadelphia Zoo.

Mark and Joseph bring non-profit experience to the Board. Both are active members of their communities and the Philadelphia region, personally and professionally. Read on for the full news release introducing our two new trustees.

Mark Edwards and Joseph T. Steuer Elected Trustees of Peirce College
CEO of Philadelphia Workforce Development Corporation and the CFO of the Philadelphia Zoo Bring Non-Profit Experience to Peirce Board

PHILADELPHIA -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Peirce College, Philadelphia’s leading private, non-profit, four-year accredited institution for working adult learners, announced the election of Mark Edwards and Joseph T. Steuer to its Board of Trustees.

“Both Mark Edwards and Joe Steuer bring significant non-profit leadership experience and talent to the board. They reflect what Peirce represents: people who really care about Philadelphia.”

Peirce continues to strengthen its board with members who are successful and active in their fields, communities and the Philadelphia region. Mark Edwards is president and CEO of the Philadelphia Workforce Development Corporation (PWDC), the fiscal agent for the city for federal and state employment and training funds. Joseph Steuer is Chief Financial Officer of The Philadelphia Zoo.

“Both Mark Edwards and Joe Steuer bring significant non-profit leadership experience and talent to the board. They reflect what Peirce represents: people who really care about Philadelphia,” said Peirce President and CEO James J. Mergiotti.

“Mark leads the region’s top workforce development organization. He has significant insight into the requirements of the labor market and methodologies for aiding Peirce graduates in achieving their career goals. Joe is the chief financial officer for the region’s premier conservation, education, and recreational organization. He possesses strong business acumen and financial management skills, which will assist Peirce in maximizing resources to fulfill its strategic agenda,” Mergiotti said.

Having spent nearly thirty years associated with iconic brands such as Pepperidge Farm, Campbell Soup and the Philadelphia Zoo, Steuer emphasized the importance of organizations building a quality brand. “I will be passionate about supporting the terrific mission to which Peirce College has dedicated its existence,” he said. “The working adult is such an underserved segment of our community. I think there is an opportunity to build on Peirce’s successes. I look forward to being part of the College as it expands its reach further into our communities and as it continues to enhance its offerings for Philadelphians who desire college credentials.”

Edwards says he brings the ability to connect the public workforce system and employers’ needs to the College discussion to help influence curriculum and prepare students for jobs in today’s marketplace.

“It is often said that education is the great equalizer. The market wants a combination of on campus and online studies…Peirce’s integrated methods are the way to go. Providing more access to students to achieve their higher education goals at a reasonable cost is critical,” Edwards said.

Edwards is leading the merger of both PWDC and the Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board (PWIB) into the newly created organization Philadelphia Works, Inc. He previously served as Executive Director of the Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s (LISC) Philadelphia office, which helps community-based organizations transform their neighborhoods into better places to live, work and raise families.

A native of Philadelphia, Edwards also held positions with Germantown Settlement and the Urban League of Philadelphia. He serves on the board of the Ivy Legacy Foundation and the Community Advisory Board of PNC Bank. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Morehouse College. Edwards lives in Elkins Park, Pa.

Steuer is a senior financial executive with a diverse business background and an outstanding record of achievement with both non-profit and for-profit organizations. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Manhattan College and a Masters in finance from New York University.

A Certified Public Accountant of Pennsylvania and Connecticut, Steuer is active in a number of organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Pennsylvania State Society of CPAs, the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs Greater Philadelphia chapter, the Pennsylvania CPA Journal Editorial Board, the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia, and the Barnes Arboretum Advisory Council. He lives in Blue Bell, Pa.

About Peirce College
Peirce College offers bachelor’s and associate degree programs in the areas of Business, Healthcare, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Peirce is a non-profit institution that specializes in serving the unique needs of working adults, many of whom work full time and are raising families. In response to the changing demands of the economy and the prospect for future jobs in the Philadelphia market, Peirce recently introduced additional degree programs in Healthcare, Human Resource Management, Accounting, and Criminal Justice. Peirce College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104 (phone: 267-284-5000). The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs accredits the College's Business Administration program and the Paralegal Studies program is approved by the American Bar Association.

For more information about Peirce College, call 888.GO.PEIRCE, or visit www.peirce.edu.

Visit Peirce’s blog, Peirce Connections, at http://blog.peirce.edu.

Become a fan of Peirce on Facebook.

Follow @PeirceCollege on Twitter.

View the Peirce YouTube Channel.

***

Take charge of your future and register today

2012-04-02T16:37:00.001-04:00


SEIZE THE DAY: Register now to enroll for the next academic year

Spring is in the air and you know what that means! Registration for the next academic year -- Fall 2012, Spring 2013, and Summer 2013 -- opens on April 9, via the my.peirce.edu student portal. As an added incentive for registering, students who register between April 9 and April 30 will be entered into a drawing to win a $500 book voucher!

Wondering if you can do it? Not sure if you can balance school with all your other responsibilities? You’re not alone. We asked the people who can best answer this question -- our students -- to see what they had to say about it.

John Matthews, an adult learner in our Business degree program working towards his bachelor’s degree, had no intentions of going to college when he finished high school. Today, he’s on his way to being the first member of his immediate family to graduate from college.

After working for a few years, John realized that a degree would make all the difference in his career, particularly his goal of obtaining a management role. He chose Peirce for its reputation as a great place for working adults, and the flexibility offered through the option of online courses. We asked him about his journey, and he had this to say:

“Going to school as an adult is different … having the responsibility of taking on various roles instead of one, such as working, taking care of your family, and finding time for school work. The advice that I would offer other working adults who are considering returning to school would be to go for it. Don’t let anything tie you down whether it’s family, children, or work. At first the start will be hard, but in the end, it will be worth it.”

So if you’re feeling stuck in your career or unsure of your opportunities for advancement, take it from students like John. The skills and credentials needed to succeed are at your fingertips -- all you need to do is register!

Active students will soon be receiving a registration package via email to prepare for the upcoming academic year. Don’t forget to complete your financial aid application as well if you want to be eligible for the 2012-2013 academic year. It’s due no later than May 1, 2012. Check out one of our financial aid workshops being offered throughout April if you need assistance applying for financial aid.

If you have any questions about the registration process, please contact your academic advisor at (888) 467-3472, ext. 9177, or reach out to the Admissions Office at (888) 467-3472, ext. 9214.