“The Randolph-Macon College alumni network is the greatest thing about being a Yellow Jacket,” says Tracy Moriconi ’16. “Alumni are incredibly supportive of the college.”

Moriconi, who majored in accounting, economics, and mathematics, was proud to join the ranks of RMC alumni when she graduated earlier this year.

“Yellow Jacket alumni show their support by cheering on athletes; donating their time at college events; and making financial contributions to the college,” she says. “When I was a student at RMC, lots of alumni offered me advice and helped me find my career path. I look forward to doing the same for current students.” 

Getting The Edge
A turning point in Moriconi’s college career came in the form of an email she received from staff in The Edge. A comprehensive four-year program that focuses on personal and academic development, The Edge provides graduates with a competitive advantage when competing for jobs and top graduate schools. The Edge also connects students with business leaders and the college’s alumni network and offers a wealth of internship opportunities.

“I received an email about an internship opportunity,” she recalls. “I wanted to apply for the internship, but needed help with writing my résumé and preparing for the interview. The Edge staff helped me do both.” Moriconi also attended Boot Camp—a two-day, off-campus immersion program where students learn to identify their career passions and hone their interview and communication skills. Boot Camp helps students develop their own elevator speech and “brand,” learn how to communicate with confidence, and identify their strengths and capabilities—all with the help of top-notch speakers and mentors, including RMC alumni.

From Internships to Career
Moriconi did three internships when she was a student at RMC. All three offered her the hands-on experience that is essential to career readiness.

“My first internship took place in Richmond, Virginia at Dodson Property Management. Duke Dodson ’02, president of the company, gave me the opportunity to see all aspects of his business, from property inspections to assisting the accountant,” says Moriconi. “It was during this internship that I realized how much I love accounting.”

She also did an internship in New York City, as a sales forecasting intern at Richline Group, the largest manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of jewelry and related precious metals products in the United States. Interning under the guidance of Richline President Dave Meleski ’81, Moriconi learned about the manufacturing, ordering, and sales sides of the business.

Her third internship took place at the accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Richmond. Working as a core assurance intern, Moriconi performed tests to ensure that procedures within the company were working properly; confirmed account balances; and shadowed upper management. She quickly realized that she wanted a career in accounting. Moriconi’s internship at PwC led to a full-time position there as a core assurance associate.

“My internships helped me discover a sector of business that I am passionate about,” she says. “And working alongside alumni allowed me to build relationships and receive advice from those who have had similar experiences.”

The Yellow Jacket Life
At RMC, Moriconi was a member of the women’s golf team, an orientation leader, and a member of Omicron Delta Epsilon, Pi Mu Epsilon, Chi Beta Phi, Phi Beta Kappa, and Omicron Delta Kappa. She also studied abroad twice during January Term (J-term), traveling to Japan and to England.

“Traveling, and being able to see firsthand what you’ve learned about in the classroom, enhances the learning experience,” she says. Her advice to new Yellow Jackets reflects her enthusiasm for all things RMC.

“Get involved on campus and meet with staff from The Edge,” she says. “The students, faculty and staff I met at Randolph-Macon enriched my college experience, while The Edge provided me with opportunities to help me prepare for my career. I plan to stay connected with Randolph Macon by attending networking events and sporting events. Go Jackets!”