For Alison Guevara, graduating from Molloy University’s School of Business isn’t just the culmination of coursework, it is the result of years of hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and real-world experience that has prepared her to step confidently into a competitive industry.
A senior majoring in Sports and Entertainment Business Management, Alison also completed Molloy’s dual-degree program, earning her MBA in Business Analytics alongside her undergraduate degree. Throughout her academic journey, Alison credits close relationships with faculty and immersive learning opportunities with helping her grow into a capable, confident business professional.
One of the most influential figures in her experience was School of Business Professor, Dr. Bruce Haller, Alison’s academic advisor and a central leader of the Sports and Entertainment Business Management program.
“Professor Haller really pushed me to get out of my comfort zone,” Alison said. “I had him almost every semester, so he really got to know me and my strengths and where I needed to grow. He encouraged me when it came to assignments, networking, and really understanding the industry beyond just one area.”
Through classes, faculty advising, and special programming—such as a sports and entertainment industry panel featuring alumni and industry professionals—Dr. Haller helped Alison gain a broader, more well-rounded understanding of the field.
“He helped me become knowledgeable across different aspects of sports and entertainment,” Alison added. “You don’t want to be focused on just one thing; you want to understand how everything works together.”
Another transformative experience came through Alison’s capstone course, taught by Professor Dawn DiStefano. The class brought together everything Alison had learned throughout her time at Molloy and applied it to real-world client work.
“The capstone didn’t even feel like a regular class,” Alison reflected. “We were working with such a great client, and it felt like natural, hands-on experience. It honestly didn’t feel stressful—it felt like all the things I’d learned at Molloy just came together.”
Beyond practical experience, the capstone course played a crucial role in Alison’s personal growth as a leader.
“Professor DiStefano really helped me build my confidence,” Alison said. “She pushed me to take on a leadership role within my group, and now I feel confident leading a team, especially in a business setting.”
That emphasis on experiential learning extends well beyond the classroom within Molloy’s School of Business—particularly when it comes to internships and career preparation. Alison credits the school’s support system, including Career Coordinator Kelly Meier, with helping her secure meaningful internships aligned with her interests.
Her first internship was with Molloy’s Men’s Basketball team, where she gained firsthand insight into NCAA Division II athletics.
“I learned so much about how college athletics operate,” Alison said. “Traveling around the Northeast, seeing how different facilities are run, and comparing them to our own gave me a real understanding of the industry.”
Building on that foundation, Alison went on to intern with the New York Mets as an event concierge, working on non-baseball events at a professional, large-scale venue.
“It’s been amazing to experience events on such a large level,” she shared. “It connected everything I’d done previously and showed me how transferable those skills really are.”
As Alison prepares to graduate, she reflects on her time at Molloy as one defined by access—to faculty who invested in her success, to real clients and real experiences, and to opportunities that bridged the gap between student and professional.
“Molloy didn’t just teach me business concepts,” Alison said. “It helped me become confident in myself and prepared me to walk into my career knowing I belong there.”
