Spring 2025 Career Day Features Dynamic Panel Discussion and Job Fair
BMCC’s Center for Career Development hosted its Spring 2025 Career Day on April 24 in the college gymnasium. The event opened with an engaging employer panel featuring Amanda Choi, Account Director at LinkedIn Talent Solutions; Antonio Romero, Audience Services Professional at the BMCC Performing Arts Center; and Brittiany Bernard, Device and Services Account Manager at Google. The panelists shared insights from their career journeys and offered practical advice for students preparing to enter the workforce. “Being a panelist at the BMCC Career Day was an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Bernard. “I was so impressed by the students' insightful questions and genuine curiosity. It’s clear they are a motivated group.” Following the panel, the Career Fair portion of the event drew a large crowd of students. More than 50 employers participated, representing a wide range of industries, including communications, media, liberal arts, public service, business, finance, banking, and accounting. Employers praised both the event and the professionalism of BMCC students, while students described the fair as insightful and impactful, offering valuable exposure to career possibilities. A standout feature this year was the LinkedIn Photo Booth, provided by the Center for Career Development—a long-running initiative that has helped students build their online professional presence for over a decade. “In my many years working in career development, this Career Day was one of the most gratifying experiences,” said Robert Earl, Director of the Center for Career Development. “Seeing students fully engaged, employers deeply impressed, and meaningful connections being made reminded us all why this work matters.”
Writing and Literature Students Celebrated at the 2025 James Tolan Student Writing Awards
BMCC's English department celebrated the 21st annual student awards ceremony recognizing outstanding writing by Writing & Literature students on April 30 in Richard Harris Terrace. English Department Chair Adele Kudish delivered welcoming remarks and Writing and Literature Professor Holly Messitt shared a remembrance of James Tolan— a professor and poet in the BMCC English department from 2003 until 2017—for whom the awards are named. The department hosts a fundraiser each year to raise the money awarded to the students. “The department comes together around these awards,” says Professor Messitt. “We want to support and honor our students as well as honor Jim’s memory each year. The ceremony is always a special event, full of excitement and love. We are so proud of our talented students.”
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From India to BMCC, to a Data Scientist Position at an NYC Financial Services Company
BMCC Alumnus Jasmeet Narang (Math, ’16) grew up in Delhi, India, and moved to the United States in 2014 to pursue an associate degree in Mathematics. Today, Narang is a Data Scientist working in financial reporting. In her position at a technology-driven financial services company, she leads the design and execution of data pipelines. “Being a student at BMCC was a rewarding experience, both academically and personally,” said Narang, who went on to earn a Bachelors' degree in Computer Science and Masters in Data Science. “The courses I took not only strengthened my math skills but also taught me valuable life lessons. Whether it was an Introduction to Sociology class or simply interacting with people from different backgrounds, I learned so much. BMCC wasn’t just a school for me—it truly felt like a home away from home.” |
BMCC Students Earn Top Honors at Computing Conference
Computer Information Systems (CIS) majors Darlyn Gomez and Giovanna Rodriguez presented their research project, "A Data-Driven Approach to Exploring Retention of Women in Computing Using Machine Learning," at the 29th Annual Consortium for Computing Sciences in Colleges Northeastern Region (CCSCNE) Conference, held April 4–5 at SUNY Brockport. Competing against more than 50 other submissions—mostly from four-year colleges—the BMCC students won second place in the Undergraduate Student Research poster contest. The students were mentored by CIS Professor Dr. Mohammad Azhar, CIS Professor Louise Yan, and industry collaborator Sam Karasik. The research was partially supported by the NSF’s “Bridging the Gap Technology Learning Community” grant and the CUNY 2X initiative. Their study not only advances understanding of women’s retention in computing fields but also exemplifies BMCC’s commitment to fostering innovation and student success in STEM disciplines. Interested students can email Dr. Azhar at mazhar@bmcc.cuny.edu.
BMCC Tech Career Panel Draws Over 100 Students
More than 105 students attended the BMCC Tech Career Panel on April 23, held both in person at 199 Chambers Street and via Zoom. Panelists offered students first-hand insight into careers in the technology sector, discussing daily responsibilities, industry trends, and practical advice for entering the field. The panel featured Kevin Granados, a Software Engineer at Microsoft and Hunter College Computer Science alumnus currently working on the Azure Storage Team; Rachel Tamarkin, a Product Manager at Blackstone and Stony Brook University graduate in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, who leads the firm's proprietary application for portfolio performance; Jason Osorio Marin, an Associate Windows DevOps Engineer at Rockstar Games and a Computer Science graduate from Stony Brook University; and Leyla Tuon Cao, a Software Engineer at Google and Hunter College Computer Science alumna. The event was organized by the BMCC Programming Club and the BMCC Women in Computing Chapter. Special recognition goes to Darlyn Gomez and Giovanna Rodriguez, Student President and Officer of the Women in Computing Chapter, for their leadership and coordination in making the panel a success. This initiative was supported by the NSF Technology Learning Community and CUNY2X Tech.
Conexiones Students Speak Out for Higher Education in Nation's Capital
Students from BMCC’s Conexiones program attended the HACU Capitol Forum in Washington, D.C., from April 29 through May 1. While there, the students met with legislators from New York—including Congressman Dan Goldman and staff from Senator Chuck Schumer’s office—to advocate for funding and legislative priorities supporting Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). Conexiones, funded by a five-year, $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support student success at HSIs, is in its final year of funding. With the status of continued funding uncertain, students spoke about the program’s benefits and made compelling pleas for a funding extension. Communications major Daniela Primera, one of four BMCC students to attend, said, “Sharing our experiences with our Members of Congress was so important so they can understand the benefits of these programs, and they can see the value as an investment not only in our futures but the future of the country.” The students were joined by Conexiones Advisors Jose Hernandez and Julio Vaca, BMCC's Director of Government Relations Doug Israel, Dean of Grants and Sponsored Programs Judie Eisenberg, and students from other New York institutions.
Undersecretary for Human Rights for Sinaloa, Mexico Speaks at BMCC Event
Scholar, journalist, and human rights advocate Dr. Patricia Figueroa, Undersecretary of Human Rights for the Government of Sinaloa, Mexico, visited BMCC for a roundtable and keynote address with BMCC students, faculty and staff on April 29 at Fiterman Hall Conference Center. The program, which emerged out of a collaboration between the Department of Ethnic and Race Studies and the Office of Diplomatic Engagement and Training, featured an insightful discussion on “Migrant Diplomacy: Border Security and U.S.-Mexico Relations.” BMCC Associate Professor Judith Anderson moderated the keynote address, while Dr. Daniel Katz, Director, Office of Diplomatic Engagement and Training, facilitated the roundtable.
Criminal Justice Students Explore the Legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois in Massachusetts
On April 25, twenty-one Criminal Justice students, accompanied by Criminal Justice Professor Satenik Margaryan, traveled to Great Barrington, Massachusetts, where they engaged with the legacy of civil rights pioneer, scholar, and activist W.E.B. Du Bois at his birthplace. The day included a tour of Du Bois’s boyhood homesite as well as Mahaiwe Cemetery, where many of his family members are buried. The trip was made possible through a collaboration with Professor Colin Adams of Berkshire Community College. Criminal Justice major Khalid Jemmott described his experience in Massachusetts as enriching. “While I had heard of W.E.B. Du Bois through family and in school, experiencing his legacy firsthand brought a new depth to my understanding,” said Jemmott. Criminal Justice major Hazel Benda shared that she learned a great deal about Du Bois during the trip. “I appreciate the pioneer that he was and that his good work has not been forgotten,” she said. Professor Margaryan noted that she first learned about the Du Bois homesite from Professor Adams during the 2024 Eastern Sociological Society conference and was thrilled to organize the trip with support from a Perkins grant. “The trip offered our students a rare and powerful opportunity to engage directly with the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois—a pioneering sociologist, criminologist, historian, and civil rights leader whose work remains deeply relevant today.”
Spikes, Sets, and Spirit: BMCC Hosts Thrilling 2025 Asian Heritage Month Volleyball Tournament
Fierce competition, school spirit, and serious volleyball skills were on full display during the Asian Heritage Month volleyball tournament on April 29 in the BMCC gymnasium. The event featured five matches between three teams made up of students, staff, and alumni. The tournament kicked off with a staff-versus-students exhibition game. The winning team consisted of BMCC students Miguel Trejo, Emmanuel Olaifa, Eugene Villarruz, Tenji Sherpa, Jeriel Peguero, and Mansur Lechiev. This year’s Asian Heritage Month volleyball tournament was organized by Student Success Outreach and Programming Coordinator Albert Lee and Associate Director of Career Services Jay Francisco.
Health Studies Hosts Spring 5K Walk/Run
The Health Studies Department hosted its Spring 5K Walk/Run on April 30, with over 60 people participating in an energizing afternoon of exercise along the scenic Hudson River Park. This long-standing BMCC tradition, which began in the early 1980s, continues to bring together students, faculty, and staff each Fall and Spring to promote movement, wellness, and a sense of community. Designed for participants of all fitness levels, the 5K reflects the department’s commitment to inclusivity and healthy living.
Students Fill Richard Harris Terrace for Anime Screening
As part of Asian Heritage Month, the Animation Club (Women in Animation Chapter) and the Anime Club presented an Anime Screening, Manga Lending, and Cosplay Contest on April 25 in Richard Harris Terrace. More than 50 students browsed and borrowed selections from the A. Philip Randolph Library’s Manga and Graphic Novel collection. The Cosplay Runway awarded five cosplayers with swag bags filled with prizes donated by sponsor Viz Media, as well as exclusive merchandise from Anime Expo Los Angeles and Anime NYC. The event was hosted by Media Arts and Technology Professor NaRhee Ahn.
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Student Affairs Seeks Staff Production Assistants for 2025 Commencement Ceremony on June 4
The Office of Student Affairs is seeking staff members who can serve as Production Assistants at the College’s 60th Commencement Ceremony, June 4, at Barclays Center, in Brooklyn. Staff members who would like to participate should inform their supervisors so they may anticipate departmental staffing needs. To sign up as a Production Assistant, visit this registration page. The ceremony will also be Livestreamed. For more information about BMCC’s 2025 Commencement, visit the event webpage.
BMCC Continuing Education 2025 Open House, May 28 and 29
BMCC’s Center for Continuing Education and Workforce Development will host a series of information sessions showcasing the wide range of courses the Center offers. Individuals interested in starting a career in Information Technology, Diplomatic Affairs, Cyber Security, or the Cannabis industry are invited to attend on May 28 and 29 at 25 Broadway in Manhattan. Participants will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and advisors who can answer questions and provide insight. Professionals looking to upskill, earn certifications, or explore new career pathways are also welcome. The event will include campus tours and information about tuition and financing. Click here to choose and enroll in an information session. For more information, email ace@bmcc.cuny.edu or call (212) 346-8410.
Handshake: Student Career Connection Available
Handshake is BMCC's premier career services platform, connecting students and alumni with a wealth of opportunities. Whether an individual is searching for internships, part-time jobs, full-time positions or simply exploring career paths, Handshake is a good resource. Job or intern seekers can claim their profile to showcase skills and experience and gain access to thousands of job postings and other resources. Handshake also allows individuals to register for career events, schedule appointments with career advisors and receive personalized job recommendations. Handshake is a one-stop shop for launching a career! BMCC community members with questions about Handshake can contact Director of Career Development Robert Earl at rearl@bmcc.cuny.edu.
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LinkedIn Learning Platform Now Available
LinkedIn Learning is an online learning platform designed to assist users with improving business, software, technology and creative skills to achieve personal and professional goals. The LinkedIn Learning video library of engaging, top-quality courses taught by industry experts allows users to learn at their own pace. Available courses include Developing Presentation Skills, Learning Time Management Skills, How to Be An Effective Leader, QuickBooks Tutorials for Accountants, Adobe Creative Cloud Tutorials Web/Fashion Designers, AutoCad Tutorial for Engineers, Scripting Languages for the Application Developers and more. For more information, contact Leticia Dinkins, Instructional Computer Services Manager, at the Learning Resource Center, at ldinkins@bmcc.cuny.edu. |
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