On Tuesday, Nov. 18, students from the Barney School of Business traveled to Stamford, Conn., for the fall Corporate Visit Day, an immersive experience designed to connect students with industry professionals, explore career possibilities, and gain firsthand insight into workplace culture and expectations.
Throughout the day, the 20 Barney students visited three organizations representing diverse sectors of the professional world.
Synchrony Financial: Innovation, Career Readiness, and Hands-On Learning
The first stop brought students to Synchrony Financial, where they participated in an interactive session centered on early career development and the transition from college to a first full-time role. A panel of Synchrony professionals offered advice on navigating the early stages of a career, building confidence, and developing critical workplace skills.
Students were then challenged to take part in a fast-paced design exercise. Working in teams, they were tasked with pitching a technology-enhanced payment product for a defined customer segment. The experience pushed students to think creatively, communicate ideas effectively, and collaborate—skills essential for success in the fintech space.
Spencer Stuart: Inside the Executive Search Industry
At Spencer Stuart, students gained a behind-the-scenes look at the executive search sector. Representatives shared an overview of the firm’s processes, industry structure, and the unique role executive search plays in shaping leadership teams across industries.
Students also learned about available internships and early-career pathways at the firm. During lunch, small groups were joined by Spencer Stuart team members who shared insights about their roles and answered questions about career trajectories, industry trends, and what it takes to thrive in a consulting and advisory environment.
City of Stamford: Public Service Career Pathways
The final stop of the day connected students with a panel of professionals from the City of Stamford. Panelists discussed internship and early-career opportunities in local government and emphasized how skills developed in business programs translate directly into public sector roles.
City employees shared their career journeys spanning both private and public sectors, highlighting the wide-ranging opportunities available in municipal government. They also underscored the in-demand competencies for young professionals today—adaptability, communication, collaboration, and a commitment to public service.
Corporate Visit Day offered students a valuable opportunity to explore potential career paths, ask questions, and engage with professionals who can help shape their future success. From financial innovation and leadership advisory to civic impact, the day showcased the many avenues available to Barney students as they prepare to enter the workforce.
The experience reflects Barney’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning, professional development, and empowering students to build meaningful, forward-looking careers.