Haddon Mindnich, '09

Diligence was name of the game for graduating senior's success

October 22, 2009

“We could not have predicted the current economic atmosphere, and as students, we’ve done nothing wrong,” said Haddon Mindnich, a graduating finance student. “But we can’t let the situation get us down. If you sit on your hands, opportunity very rarely falls in your lap.”

It’s with this attitude that Mindnich, who completed an internship as an investment banking summer analyst, pursued post-graduation career opportunities.

By adjusting his focus to look outside traditional avenues, emphasizing the importance of networking and keeping a positive attitude, Mindnich was able to secure a position working for a lobbyist firm in Washington, D.C.

“I have always been intrigued about how much is going on in D.C., so it made a lot of sense to concentrate my search there,” he said. “In today’s economy, so much revolves around the government and Congress, and I’m looking forward to being in the middle of all that action.”

As an analyst to senior lobbyists, Mindnich will attend house and senate hearings, keep members on his team current on industry trends and maintain relationships with clients. In this position, he hopes to gain a better understanding of the nation’s political landscape while focusing on specific industries.

“The past two years have shown me that successful careers are built around networking, understanding the market you operate in and being flexible,” said Mindnich. “I don’t think anyone’s future is set in stone, so I’m excited about gaining this experience and exposure.

Mindnich credits the Career Development Center with helping him to make connections and navigate the job search process.

“If you don’t go to the CDC and put in the time, they can’t help you,” he said. “I used the CDC as much as possible in all respects, but a good work ethic doesn’t stop once you have a job. Getting your foot in the door is just the first step.”

Article ID: 251