YPIE offers professional guidance to students

More than 180 Yonkers high school and college students had an opportunity to receive some practical guidance in preparing for their educational and vocational futures during a series of virtual seminars organized by Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE). The nonprofit defines its mission as partnering with students to ensure they are ready for, enroll in, and complete college. “We confront the challenges of a low-income, urban school district by providing families with equitable access to the critical tools and services necessary for college success,” YPIE states.

Nearly 50 professionals across several industries shared their experiences and insights with the YPIE students during YPIE Career Week. The online sessions featured panel discussions followed by breakout sessions with smaller groups of students.

Representatives from JPMorgan Chase, Regeneron, Webster Bank, Yonkers Contacting, NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester and PricewaterhouseCoopers participated.

“An education is really important for your future success,” Margaret Lane, financial crimes analyst at Webster Bank told the students.“Whatever school you go to, wherever you end up, whatever you do, hard work, commitment speaks for itself. Believe in yourself, and you’ll be successful. Give yourself time to figure out what you want to do. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but an education is really important for your future success.”

Luis Penichet, vice president/commercial banker with JPMorgan Chase, urged, “Figure out how to add value and add it, whether that’s in a classroom, (or) college internship.”

Jean Saio, director at Regeneron suggested, “Mentors are very important. Find them. Keep them. Cultivate that relationship.”

Michelle Friedberg, director of human resources at Yonkers Contracting Company, explained to the students that their resume is very important,

“Take your time to put it together,” Friedberg said. “Do your homework. It”™s important real estate to who you are.”

Viprali Bhatkar of Regeneron urged the students to surround themselves with people who are positive.

“Try to challenge yourself every day,” Bhatkar said. “Pay attention to who you are and who you want to be.Always believe in the power of networking.”