Industry Insights
AMA-YCP connects students from all disciplines with seasoned industry professionals, offering insights into diverse career paths and industry trends. Our speaker events provide students with valuable opportunities to learn from experts across various fields, who share actionable advice, insights they wish they had known during college, and what it's like transitioning into the professional world.
Notable experiences include:
Dan Leonardi’s Speaker Event:
Dan Leonardi, a retired senior vice president of sales and marketing at Hanover Foods Corporation, shared his extensive expertise during his engaging session with AMA-YCP. With over 45 years in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector, Dan brought a wealth of knowledge from his career with top companies such as Pepsi-Cola, Kellogg Company, Conagra Brands, and Utz Brands. His background in brand development, operations, key account management, and change management provided attendees with actionable strategies to "be the CEO of their own lives," inspiring them to take charge of their personal and professional goals.
Dan also discussed key lessons he wished he had known during his own college years and shared insights into transitioning into the professional world. Notably, he emphasized practical steps for building confidence, setting clear objectives, and revitalizing underperforming ventures. His talk offered a relatable and motivational perspective, leaving attendees equipped with strategies to achieve sustainable growth in their careers.
Visit Dan’s Website: For more insights, resources, and to learn more about Dan’s career journey, we encourage you to visit his website below. Gain further inspiration and actionable advice directly from him!
Diana Serna-Serrano’s Speaker Event:
Diana Serna-Serrano, a marketing and communications professional dedicated to empowering individuals both personally and professionally, shared her experiences with AMA-YCP members. Diana spoke about navigating the transition between corporate and nonprofit sectors and her journey to becoming her own boss. With expertise in brand marketing, event management, corporate communications, public relations, and brand strategy, Diana provided actionable insights and strategies for students considering diverse career paths. Her entrepreneurial ventures, including founding Betterment Cleaning Services and Betterment Personal and Professional Coaching, inspired attendees to explore their potential and embrace continuous learning.
Allison Dobstetter’s Speaker Event:
Allison Dobstetter, a York College alumna and Brand Manager for the Hershey Company, shared her journey of navigating the ups and downs of post-graduation life with AMA-YCP members. Recently nominated as a Top 20 under 30 professional for her role at Hershey, Allison provided actionable advice for students on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in their professional development.