Cabrini alumna Jeanne Lombardo has learned many valuable lessons from her time at the college and the transition into the real world.
Lombardo graduated in 1998, and was an Arts and Entertainment editor as well as a Features editor for The Loquitur. In addition, she worked on WYBF, and helped revive a literary magazine.
“I would say that Cabrini was amazing in that the college gives you hands-on experiences/real-world experiences that truly prepared me very well for the working world,” Lombardo said.
Like the countless number of students that preceded her, Lombardo did not have an idea of what she wanted to do after graduation. However, she was helped along the way by a likely source- her adviser, Dr. Jerome Zurek, chair of the communication department.
“Dr. Zurek helped me to obtain my first internship through another Cabrini alum working at a local cable company,” Lombardo said. “I wasn’t sure if that was even what I wanted, but I took the job and it was a wonderful experience.”
The company Dr. Zurek connected her with was Suburban Cable, and Lombardo spent over three years working there.
“I met a lot of really great people, I had the chance to organize a bunch of community events raising money for non-profits and I stayed there for 3 1/2 years,” Lombardo said.
After Suburban Cable was acquired by Comcast, Lombardo left and started working at marketing job for Meyer Design Inc. a local interior design and architecture firm, which she spent over a decade doing.
“I was always interested in art and creativity, so this seemed to be the perfect fit for me. In addition, the people there were genuinely fun and wonderful to work with,” Lombardo said.
In her spare time, Lombardo enjoys creating glassware and accessories, and has even sold some of her crafts to Square Peg Artery & Salvage, a shop located near Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia.
She is currently selling her artwork at Square Peg Artery and Salvage. Lombardo also recruits interns and local artist to sell their wares to the shop.
Lombardo also had precious and valuable advice for anybody who is embarking on a journey toward a career.
“Having a strong work ethic and being willing to go above and beyond for your employer will go a long way,” Lombardo said.
Lombardo’s experiences during and after her tenure Cabrini have been not only an interesting ride, but also a great learning experience.
The transition from the small community of Cabrini to corporate America allowed Lombardo room to grow.
“When you graduate, you’re not suddenly finished learning, Lombardo said. “Learning is a life-long endeavor; you may discover talents and interests that you never even realized you had,” Lombardo said.
