Tech Threads 

Tech Threads Grand Opening: a unique look at New York Tech’s career-related support

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By Beste Tatlican

On Wednesday, October 9, I visited our Student Activity Center to learn more about an idea I had heard for the first time: Tech Threads. I saw many people smiling, proud faces, and a productive atmosphere. Francesca Fiore, D.Ed., Associate Provost, and Felipe Henao, D. Ed., Dean of Students were giving their thoughtful speeches. Lynn Hart, MSEd., Associate Director of Employer Relations and Chigozie Henry Umeaku, Tech Threads Student Representative were just as passionate to be there to support the future of the students. I had the opportunity to interview them both. 

Ms. Lynn Hart, with a welcoming smile, sat down with me and shared all about the event, while she shared her valuable positive experience, and Chigozie, with some student volunteers, warmly introduced me to the Tech Threads collection, as we walked and admired the great selection of clothes. 

The idea, supported by generous alumni and faculty, was to provide access to professional clothes that students can benefit from at important events in their careers, such as interviews. Although we got to experience considerate and reflective remarks from all four of the aforementioned influential figures in our community, I was able to understand Chigozie’s ideas as a fellow student myself, and see how he’s viewing this event through the eyes of someone who is thinking about other students’ needs. I’m assured for everyone – it was nice to see the NYIT community provide resources for students that might need them and help them feel included as part of a community. Having professional clothing to wear shouldn’t be something that any student should worry about, logically - in an interview that tests their cognitive abilities. I saw that when I was there, listening to what each of these wonderful speeches and casual conversations entailed. 

As Chigozie wisely said, “if you’re going for an interview and you don’t look your best, you’re already losing points.” Looking your best can not only boost your confidence, but also portray your respect towards the people around you, or especially towards yourself and the interviewer. Ms. Lynn Hart thanked the student volunteers and noted that “very important…they are full time students… very focused on their academics, and equally as dedicated…they worked very hard: from marketing, collecting donations, organizing the closets, taking appointments from our student body…so they are all hands in.” 

Talking with Ms. Lynn Hart was an enriching experience. I got to learn about the behind-the-scenes and all the efforts of many student volunteers as well as the overall organization of the event. Ultimately, it was a delightful hour of awareness, wisdom, and encouragement by the important people who collaborated to put together such an influential event. The students there were proud and the ribbon cutting brought about smiles all around. 

If you would like to watch the three interviews about this event, feel free to visit our YouTube channel @campusslate maintained by our very own, amazing Campus Slate team members and our Instagram @theslateow.