"Learning outside the classroom" is one of Stonehill's best traits. Whether you study abroad, intern away, take a travel LC or go on a H.O.P.E. trip, there are so many ways to get away from the hill for a while.

To add another one to your Stonehill bucket list: you must consider the NYC Externship Program.

NYCEP is offered through the Office of Career Services every spring break. A small group of students is selected (after a fall term interview and application process) to network with Stonehill alumni at various Manhattan company sites. This year, eight students including myself embarked on the week-long career-driven journey. Now, I could not imagine my Stonehill experience without it.

Deciding what you want to do "for the rest of your life" (or so every tells you) is a daunting decision. A large percentage of students come into undergraduate school undeclared or end up switching their major at some point. I myself came in wholeheartedly unsure, and while I have since declared a double major in communications and sociology, both fields are so broad that I still haven't found my "dream job" or path after graduation.

That's where NYCEP comes in. This program allows you to discover yourself for a week. Discover what corporate culture you'll fit in to, if you really can take an hour-long commute every day, if you want to wear a suit 9-5 or if you want to be considered "corporate" at all.

Some students come into the program knowing exactly what they want, only to have their worlds turned upside down. Some students' goals and aspirations are strongly confirmed. And then there are some who find themselves in the middle. But no one leaves New York without a dozen questions and even more business cards.

This year, NYCEP visited Sony Music, Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters, Avon, The Institute for Family Health and J Public Relations, just to name a few. Each visit offered a new perspective on life after college -- what the company did, its connection to Stonehill, how we can fit in, tips for resume and interview success.

We spend so much time in classes learning how to do things, but we don't spend nearly enough credit hour time learning how to present those things to employers. In an increasingly competitive job market with overwhelming pathways and avenues to take, hearing words of wisdom from both high ranking big-wigs and entry level employees was invaluable.

What surprised me the most about my time with NYCEP was the connections I made, not just with Stonehill alumni and Manhattan professionals, but my fellow peers. We all were so driven, ambitious and curious. It was infectious and motivating, and I know I can rely on the friends I've made for the years to come. The conversations we had throughout the week were on a deeper level than I could have predicted. It is going to be great seeing how we transition through college and through our careers. I can't wait to see what we all go on to do.

Moving forward from NYCEP, I'm excited to keep up with the connections I've made, use the professionals tips I've received and continue searching for internships with a clearer idea of what I'd like to do. I still have a million questions running through my mind, but now I am asking myself the right questions.

Thank you, Stonehill, and the team at the Kruse Center, for another incredible opportunity. I strongly encourage anyone who is interested to apply next fall, or consider the similar Hill to Hill program which travels to Washington, D.C. You won't regret making this unforgettable investment in yourself.