Gianna Zonghetti '10
B.S. in Business
Garrison, NY
“Concordia is a small school where you can receive personal attention that will help you succeed, not only at Concordia, but in your future endeavors.”
Why did you decide to attend Concordia?
There were a few different reasons I chose Concordia. I first learned of the school when the basketball coach began recruiting me. After researching the school further and seeing the campus, I realized that the opportunity to play basketball and participate in the Fellow’s Program, as well as the school’s small class sizes and close proximity to my hometown, was exactly what I wanted.
Do you see how what you learn in the classroom has real-world application?
Most definitely! Many of the professors in the business field focus on preparing their students for the world outside the classroom. They are extremely knowledgeable, as all of them have real experience working in the field of business. As students, we are given the tools we will need to thrive in the “outside world”. No detail is too small to be overlooked. Details such as making sure your cell phone is off during meetings, proper attire, writing a résumé, and general skills needed to give a successful presentation are essential. Becoming a true professional is the main focus of the professors.
Why did you choose the Business area of study?
I have always been intrigued by business, and in my senior year of high school I was able to take a class in Business Law, which confirmed that this was something I should pursue further. I truly believe that a background in business will be useful in the pursuit of achieving my goals. I hope to become a corporate lawyer or, as an alternative, pursue a position in the legal field in general.
What has been your most rewarding experience so far?
My experiences in the Fellow’s Program. Specialized trips and unique seminars have broadened my horizons and helped me discover more about myself and what I want out of life. Students in the Fellow’s Program are required to make Dean’s List every semester. Though I wanted to accept the challenge, playing basketball and carrying as many as 19.5 credits a semester while having to maintain a 3.5+ GPA seemed very challenging at times. The reward has been my continued success in meeting and in many instances surpassing my goals, even when classes were extremely difficult and time was short.
What has surprised you most about Concordia?
I am continually surprised that no matter what office or classroom I go into, people there know my name. It is nice to have that sort of personal attention. I can recall numerous times where I have gone into the Financial Aid office or College Services, and have been addressed by name from people who have met me maybe once. It’s a good feeling to know that you’re not just a number, but rather a person.
What makes you happiest about your experience at Concordia?
I don’t think I could choose just one thing that makes me happiest about my experience because there are a lot of contributing factors. I am happy about the fact that the school was close enough to my home that my family could come watch me play basketball. I am happy about the friends I have made who will be my friends for a lifetime. I am happy about the experience my teammates and I have gone through that brought us all closer and taught us never to give up. Overall, I am very pleased with my experience here at Concordia.
What do you hope to do beyond Concordia?
I am planning on attending law school in the fall following my graduation. Thanks to my experiences and the foundation Concordia has given me, I am looking forward to my future and not placing any limits on myself.