Lafayette alumni, parents, and friends host students in the workplace for a firsthand look at their field
By Stella Katsipoutis-Varkanis
This winter break, more than 200 Lafayette students previewed possible career paths, shadowing professionals from the broader Lafayette community to learn what everyday life in their chosen fields truly entails.
Through Gateway Career Center’s externship program, students gain hands-on exposure to a variety of professional fields—helping them build confidence, make more informed career decisions, and see for themselves the impact they can potentially have on the world by following their interests.
During the January break, 210 students participated in externships, spending up to a week shadowing Lafayette alumni, parents, and friends in fields ranging from health care to engineering, music, and publishing.
“It’s a chance for students to see their classroom learning in action and explore career fields they may have never heard of, much less considered,” says Alexis Leon, associate director of experiential learning. The experience, she adds, is a valuable opportunity to not only gain a clearer vision of post-graduation possibilities, but also build deep, lasting connections within the Lafayette community.
“The majority of extern hosts are alumni, with parents and friends of the College also heavily involved, and they are extremely invested in the success of our students,” Leon says. “The shared Lafayette experience forms a solid base for an intentional and reciprocal relationship, with the students benefiting from the hosts’ experience and wisdom, and the host connecting with the College in a current and very real way. Many hosts and externs stay in touch for years after the program.”
From local startups to global corporations, students and hosts share a snapshot of their externship experiences this year.
Acopian Power Supplies
Easton, Pa.
Host: Alex Karapetian ’04, president
Externs: Laura Chin ’28, mechanical engineering major, pending dual major in English; Aaron Keyser ’26, electrical and computer engineering major
Acopian Power Supplies is a third-generation, family-run American company that designs, manufactures, and supplies electrical power solutions for converting and regulating power in electronic systems and devices. Founded in 1957, Acopian is headquartered in Easton, Pa., with a larger manufacturing facility in Melbourne, Fla. Dedicated to delivering high-quality, reliable power solutions, Acopian offers a broad range of AC-DC and DC-DC power supplies serving industrial, commercial, aerospace, medical, defense, and telecommunications applications.
Experience
Externs supported electrical and mechanical engineers with tasks such as power supply design, testing and troubleshooting, documentation, and observing the full production lifecycle—from initial design through assembly and quality assurance. They also participated in facility tours, job shadowing across departments, and discussions with engineers and leadership about career pathways, workplace culture, and professional development.
Student POV
“Shadowing experiences have been some of the most impactful of my academic journey. They gave me a stronger professional network, a sense of what skills to prioritize, and inspiration for my studies,” Chin says. “The externship experience took the many things I love about shadowing and put them in an environment where I could observe a Lafayette graduate, making it easier for me to relate to the experience. Spending time in a professional workplace gave me the opportunity to get a better idea of the details of their day-to-day tasks, how a company operates, and what different careers in the engineering industry might look like. I am extremely grateful for the variety this opportunity offered. Alex was helpful and welcoming, and I appreciated his enthusiasm and willingness to answer my questions. I look forward to using what I have learned as I consider my future career.”
Host POV
“In welcoming Lafayette students into our company, which is proudly run by Lafayette alumni, there was an immediate sense of shared culture and understanding, making the experience feel more personal and collaborative,” Karapetian says. “They brought fresh perspectives and energy, and it was rewarding to help them see how the principles they’re learning at Lafayette translate directly into real-world engineering and manufacturing. As engineers and leaders, we see the value of investing in the next generation and helping students build confidence through experience. As Lafayette alumni, it is especially significant to give back to the institution that helped shape our own careers. Hosting the externship allowed us to strengthen the alumni connection, mentor students who may one day follow a similar path, and demonstrate how a Lafayette education can lead to long-term success in engineering and industry. One of our very first Lafayette interns, William Hoffman ’10, who joined Acopian full time as an engineer shortly after graduation, played an integral role in overseeing this year’s externs, offering guidance shaped by his own experience. It was a full-circle moment that perfectly reflects the enduring nature of the Lafayette-Acopian partnership.”
Scholastic
New York, N.Y.
Host: Annie Krege ’23, senior associate manager, trade sales, children’s book group
Extern: Hailey Messer ’26, economics major
Scholastic Corp. is the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books and educational materials for pre-K to grade 12. The American publishing, education, and media company operates in 165 countries via school-based book clubs and fairs, retail accounts, and online channels. Founded in 1920, Scholastic also publishes youth magazines and instructional programs, and offers professional learning services. It seeks to inspire all children to become lifelong readers and learners, unlocking an imaginative curiosity about themselves and the world.
Experience
Messer sat in on meetings that covered the acquisition process, art management, inventory management, and sales and marketing strategy. She also had the opportunity to meet Krege’s colleagues across various departments, including sales, editorial, marketing, rights, and more.
Student POV
“I loved diving right into the publishing process at such a successful and well-known company,” Messer says. “It allowed me to explore a career I was not very aware of and opened my eyes to the world of publishing—something I could really enjoy with my background as an economics major with an English minor. The benefit of being able to shadow a successful alum in particular was I was able to bond over shared experiences, and identify aspects of Lafayette that really impacted her and led to her career. I loved working with my host because she was so welcoming and willing to explain everything to me in great detail as she guided me through the experience. It was so inspiring to see how truly embracing and successful our alumni are.”
Host POV
“It was great to see my role through fresh eyes and to be reminded of what I love most about my job—the art of storytelling, the ability to promote and advocate for education, and the opportunity to share important stories on a global scale,” Krege says. “This externship provided Hailey with insight into a career aligned with her studies that she hadn’t previously considered, and it was exciting to see her embrace this potential career path. She was enthusiastic and excited to learn, asking thoughtful questions that clearly demonstrated her developing interest in the business. I landed my first internship in publishing through a Lafayette connection, so I understand how impactful a strong alumni network can be. It was a privilege to serve as a mentor for a current student after all my Lafayette-affiliated mentors have done to champion me and my career. Thank you to Gateway Career Center for the opportunity to give back to Lafayette, and to Hailey for being a wonderful extern!”
Brooklyn RISE Charter School
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Host: Marcus Alston ’24, kindergarten special education teacher
Extern: Maia Steiner ’28, economics major
Brooklyn RISE Charter School is an independent public charter school in Brooklyn, N.Y., serving a diverse student population with a strong focus on multilingual learners whose first language is not English. Through intentional planning, collaboration, and inclusive practices, Brooklyn RISE’s mission is to build the knowledge, habits, and mindsets necessary for academic success, setting students in kindergarten through eighth grade on a clear path to college and beyond.
Experience
Steiner shadowed multiple roles throughout Brooklyn RISE for a comprehensive view of how a school functions as a system. She observed classroom instruction, worked alongside senior leadership during literacy and math coaching, learned about school operations, collaborated with the multilingual learners team, and gained insight into schoolwide behavior management practices. This exposure allowed Steiner to see how instructional, operational, and student-support roles intersect to bolster student success.
Student POV
“I love that I got the experience of being a teacher,” Steiner says. “It was beneficial to see what goes into working at a school, and it made me excited to see what my future career will be. I helped teachers of different subjects; I helped kids individually with math, spelling, and speaking. I even sat down in speech therapy, dance, and music classes. My host gave me the flexibility to observe and participate in areas that interested me as well. It was nice to shadow a Lafayette alum too, as we had a lot in common.”
Host POV
“What I loved most about hosting the externship was the opportunity to give back to Lafayette, which has played such a meaningful role in my journey,” Alston says. “Many people assume education is only about teaching, when in reality it involves a wide range of roles and responsibilities. I intentionally exposed Maia to both classroom and behind-the-scenes work so she could gain an authentic understanding of what the field of education looks like. I truly enjoyed working with her because of her eagerness to learn and willingness to jump right in with students. Hosting allowed me to contribute to Maia’s professional growth, and reflect on my own path as an educator and Lafayette alum.”
Northwell Health Greenwich Village Hospital
New York, N.Y.
Host: Nicolette Reilly ’16, senior physician assistant, interventional cardiology
Externs: Elizabeth Barton ’26, psychology major; Bridget Shaver ’27, biology major
A division of Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Greenwich Village Hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive, community-based care. The hospital provides surgical care, a 24/7 emergency department, orthopedics and sports medicine, gastroenterology, imaging, a full range of heart care, and more.
Experience
Students gained firsthand exposure to both inpatient and outpatient clinical care in a busy cardiology/electrophysiology setting. They observed procedures and workflow in the catheterization and electrophysiology lab, following patient care from arrival to discharge. The externs also observed consults in the emergency room, where clinical reasoning, differential diagnoses, and professional responsibilities were discussed, giving students a realistic and comprehensive view of the physician assistant role in a fast-paced hospital environment.
Student POV
“As I will be attending an accelerated nursing program this fall, this externship gave me a glimpse into what my future could look like through hard work, dedication, curiosity, and collaboration,” Barton says. “It let me understand how much of an impact I could one day have on people’s lives. I loved seeing how curious, thoughtful, and inquisitive my host was, along with the surgeons, nurses, surgical technologists, and other physician assistants. I was amazed by their level of expertise and skill, and it excited me to know I might also be able to gain that level of knowledge. Observing interesting and complex procedures (such as stent placements, angiogram analyses, and other percutaneous coronary interventions) opened my eyes to how tremendously the medical world continues to develop, especially through technological advancements. I admired how providers sought to work with patients, and it made me reflect on the impact communication, empathy, and reassurance have in transforming patients’ fears and doubts into clarity and hope. What was also rewarding about shadowing a successful Lafayette alum was being able to share our common experiences as student-athletes at Lafayette, from the long-standing Lafayette-Lehigh rivalry to the lifelong friendships we’ve built at Lafayette. I really look up to Nicolette and will never forget this experience she gave me. I could not be more excited to join the ever-expanding field of medicine and patient-centered care.”
Host POV
“Hosting allowed me to give back to my field while developing as a mentor and educator,” Reilly says. “I genuinely enjoyed teaching, as it often felt like I was relearning foundational concepts alongside the students, which reinforced my own knowledge and strengthened my professional growth. As a Lafayette alum, it was deeply rewarding to contribute to a program that played a pivotal role in shaping my own career path while supporting the next generation of health care providers in a field that is essential and continually evolving. I participated in the externship program three times as a student, and it was my junior-year experience that ultimately solidified my decision to pursue a career as a physician assistant. Working with students who shared similar experiences as student-athletes often felt like talking to a younger version of myself. Being able to provide clarity, encouragement, and honest insight into a health care career, and watching students grow more confident and engaged throughout the experience, was one of the most meaningful aspects of hosting.”
The Foundry Recording Studio
Bethlehem, Pa.
Host: Jason Wegfahrt, studio director
Extern: Eric Song ’26, economics major
The Foundry is a premier recording studio that provides state-of-the-art resources to the music community in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas. Working to create a world-class creative home where every musician, producer, and engineer can grow, create, and belong, the studio aims to elevate the local music community through opportunity, excellence, and collaboration. The facility consists of a lounge, three high-end recording studios, three professional production/writing suites, and two rehearsal rooms.
Experience
During his externship, Song worked alongside engineers to set up studio equipment for artists’ recording sessions, and helped prepare rehearsal rooms for clients. After sessions were over, he assisted Wegfahrt with mixing and mastering the recordings using professional software and analog technology, preparing them for radio and streaming use. In addition to providing support to the studio’s assistant and participating in business strategy meetings, Song even had the opportunity to try out the recording equipment himself.
Student POV
“I always had an interest in music production and audio engineering, and the externship program allowed me to learn about career paths in the industry,” Song says. “My hosts gave me insights on navigating those paths with my background in economics and sales. They made the experience engaging by allowing me to work by their side and use the technology instead of simply shadowing. They also told me stories about their careers and how they powered through the challenges of running a startup business.”
Host POV
“Having Eric at the studio really allowed us to reflect on our work, and how and why we do things,” Wegfahrt says. “He was great at asking questions, trying to understand the studio from the business side. I enjoyed giving him an inside look at the difference between running a business and being an artist.”
United States Army DEVCOM Armaments Center
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J.
Photo courtesy of U.S. Army
Host: Thomas Kiel P’25, senior systems engineer
Externs: Daniel Dwyer ’27, electrical and computer engineering major; Mason Esposito ’28, mechanical engineering major; Quincy Hughes ’27, electrical and computer engineering major; Carly Rodrigues ’27, mechanical engineering major; Michael Staunton ’27, mechanical engineering major
The United States Army DEVCOM Armaments Center is the primary research, development, and engineering center for armament systems for the U.S. Army and joint services. With a focus on engineering, science, quality, innovation, expertise, and problem-solving, it develops advanced weapon systems, ammunition, fire control technologies, and associated items for the Department of War.
Experience
Externs participated in lab tours, discussions, and hands-on experiences with engineers and scientists regarding the development, prototyping, and testing of armament systems.
Student POV
“I have lived very close to Picatinny for a long time, and this opportunity allowed me to finally see what it was all about and get a look into a potential career for my future,” Esposito says. “This externship really put this type of engineering on the map for me, and it encouraged me to look into applying for an internship at Picatinny. Our host, Thomas, was so genuine and kind throughout the whole experience. He laid out a very full and structured schedule so we could see as much as possible within the base. If not for him, we certainly wouldn’t have had such an incredible experience. He allowed us to speak to someone at each of the locations we visited so they could fill us in on what they did there and what they specialize in. We were able to get an in-depth look at not only our host’s career but also the careers of many others in different areas.”
Host POV
“Lafayette engineering students consistently provide fresh perspectives and creative insights when discussing how emerging technologies can be applied to the development of complex systems, such as military weapons and munitions,” Kiel says. “The externship program offers a practical learning experience for the students as well as prospective employers. Each interaction with professionals in the workplace essentially becomes a mini de facto interview for the students. Important qualities such as professionalism, timeliness, active participation, and intellectual curiosity are observed and become an essential part of every engagement.”
New Leaf Supports
Wind Gap, Pa.
Host: Bob Krome, owner/manager
Externs: Kristin DeBolt ’28, economics and engineering studies double major; Eliza Macauley ’28, psychology major
New Leaf Supports is an agency committed to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and/or co-occurring mental health needs, and their support networks. Its mission is to help individuals fulfill their potential through independence, growth, and development of adaptive skill sets in their homes and communities. New Leaf partners with families, residential providers, and care teams to address complex behavioral needs through integrated, research-based, and creatively applied behavioral supports and in-home and community services.
Experience
During their externship, students toured the agency, and learned how the majority of its funding and services were provided through government entities. Externs engaged in service delivery experiences, such as shadowing in-home and community support staff supporting individuals with skill-building or inclusive experiences. They were also given an opportunity to witness employment support by patronizing a local coffee shop that employs individuals with developmental disabilities, and discussing the ways in which the service is provided through job coaching. Additionally, students shadowed skill-building visits of behavioral supports, addressing skill sets ranging from emotion management, to sociosexual boundary education, to daily living activities. They even got a glimpse of the inner workings of the business’ executive leadership meetings and decision-making processes, and engaged with the behavioral support team to get an understanding of peer review and case conceptualization.
Student POV
“This externship experience introduced me to an entire area of study that I find really interesting and would like to pursue further,” DeBolt says. “I hadn’t known much about psychology or behavioral psychology before my externship, and I really enjoyed learning about the federal funding process as well as the business and economic aspects of the company. It made me realize that I would consider a career in this field. My host was incredibly welcoming and made me feel like part of the team right away. He and others were very helpful and willing to answer my questions. I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone at New Leaf. I looked forward to going in every day and learning something new.”
Host POV
“Coming into the experience, students typically have a preconceived notion of what working with adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families looks like. The adult system is complex, real, and raw, and the need for care and compassion from a purposeful agency is necessary,” Krome says. “This experience creates an opportunity for them to not only use their logic, but also think with their heart. Lafayette’s externship program is top notch and provides some of the best young minds a glimpse of reality, igniting thought processes and impacting decisions that may otherwise remain dormant. I enjoy encouraging others by sharing my personal story of changing majors/career paths several times before accidentally getting into this field. Helping folks understand they don’t have to know exactly what they want to do, and that they can make an impact no matter what career they choose, is one of my favorite conversations I have with students.”
Base Beauty Creative Agency
New York, N.Y.
Host: Aleni Mackarey ’16, vice president of client success
Externs: Jane Islas-Escamilla ’28, film and media studies and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies double major; Bridget Abbott ’26, English/writing major; Maeve Kennedy ’26, English/writing major; Claire McManus ’28, anthropology and sociology major
Base Beauty Creative Agency is a New York City-based marketing firm that specializes in accelerating growth for beauty, wellness, and personal care brands. The agency provides end-to-end services, including brand strategy, creative design, digital marketing, PR, and influencer partnerships to build consumer loyalty.
Experience
Externs helped with preparations for the agency’s Clairol Black History Month influencer event and helped develop a social media campaign concept for the brand. They also attended networking lunches, were introduced to various roles throughout the agency, provided feedback on product launches, and participated in focus groups and influencer report presentations.
Student POV
“I would recommend taking advantage of externship opportunities, even if some may not align with a specific job you are looking for,” Islas-Escamilla says. “Being exposed to a professional environment in the realm of your interest is worth it. I walked in with an open mind and excited to learn, and I knew I would leave with new insight and a new skill. I loved working with my host, and learning about her role and journey in the media industry. The externship experience was nicely organized; I was able to do a lot with the time we had, learning not just about her role, but also about several other marketing and media roles. Seeing how far Aleni has come as a Lafayette alum was inspiring. I learned a lot from her and built a connection. I explored my interest and was able to continue solidifying my career path. I am very grateful to have built a new network and learned from professionals in my area of interest. I loved being able to showcase my skills through the planned activities, while also strengthening and developing more skill sets. I am glad to have been a part of this program and for the people I was able to meet—both the externs and the workers at BBCA.”
Host POV
“I’m so grateful to introduce students to the diverse career opportunities available to them after Lafayette,” Mackarey says. “A college friend who participated in Base Beauty’s externship program actually connected me to my CEO. So, there is power in this program and the alumni who keep it going.”
