"STEM is so important right now and technical skills are in demand for every applicant regardless of the major."
Kathleen Hagelberger
Data Operations Analyst Co-op, TJX Companies Inc.
Framingham, MA
BS Management Information Systems
Why did you decide to attend Saunders College of Business at RIT?
| I decided to attend Saunders College of Business mainly for the co-op program. Also back when I was applying to college RIT was one of only three universities in New York that offered Marketing as a degree and not as a concentration with Business Administration. |
What's great about your co-op?
| I am currently working at TJX Companies Inc. as a Data Operations Analyst Co-op. My favorite parts of working at TJX are the company culture, my awesome co-workers, the ability to job shadow several different departments, and working with the Global Buying Offices. The Data Operations Analyst Co-Op is a new position, so I also really enjoy creating new project ideas for the next cycle of co-op students. |
In what ways has Saunders/RIT prepared you for the job market?
| Saunders has prepared me for this position in so many different ways. I've learned how to write an effective resume, how to use different systems like Microsoft Access for example, and how to brand myself professionally on social media. There are so many opportunities to get involved in Saunders whether it be clubs, company visits, or guest speakers. Saunders has taught me to never stop innovating. I think this mindset has helped me a lot on co-op. |
What do you feel is the most distinctive advantage gained from your Saunders Experience?
| Combining technical and business skills in the course curriculum provides a distinct advantage to Saunders students. STEM is so important right now and technical skills are in demand for every applicant regardless of the major. I think that requiring courses like Developing Business Applications (to learn C#) helps us stand out from so many other business schools. |