New Faculty Fellow Jennifer McCarthy Guides Freshmen Through Buccino Leadership Institute’s Simulated Networking Event

Seton Hall University’s Buccino Leadership Institute recently held a dynamic simulated networking event designed for freshman students, with new faculty fellow Jennifer McCarthy leading the charge. The event provided students a unique opportunity to practice essential networking and communication skills in a controlled, supportive environment. This initiative is part of the Institute’s broader mission to equip students with practical, professional skills early in their leadership journeys, and McCarthy’s guidance and expertise enriched the experience.

The simulation format was carefully chosen to standardize outcomes, ensuring each student encountered valuable, consistent networking scenarios that closely mirrored real-world interactions. Simulations like this create a realistic environment with set outcomes, helping students build confidence as they work through scenarios in real time. The event featured 20 embedded participants—including faculty, staff and senior students—who took on various professional roles to add authenticity to the exercise. Through these interactions, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, practice initiating conversations and engage in meaningful dialogue, preparing them for future professional networking situations.

Following the initial networking session, McCarthy facilitated a reflective debriefing, inviting students to think critically about their performances. During this session, students were encouraged to examine their strengths and areas for growth, while McCarthy provided insights on the importance of self-reflection and adaptability in professional settings. Networking, after all, is about understanding oneself and adapting one’s approach to different people and environments. This time for introspection allowed students to gain self-awareness, a critical skill for personal and professional development.

The students then had the chance to apply the feedback they received in a second round of networking. With a renewed understanding of effective networking, many approached the second session with increased confidence and purpose, building on the skills they had just practiced. Observing the growth in student confidence and skill throughout the event was rewarding for spectators. The students’ evolution in just a short time demonstrated the value of these experiences, as they gained the poise and presence that will carry them through their college years and beyond.

The success of this simulated networking event speaks to the Buccino Leadership Institute's commitment to cultivating well-rounded, professionally prepared leaders. Under McCarthy's mentorship, freshman students were not only introduced to critical networking strategies but also empowered to reflect on their personal approaches to communication and relationship-building. This hands-on experience is expected to be just the beginning of many practical learning opportunities as they continue their journeys at the Institute.

By hosting events like this, the Buccino Leadership Institute demonstrates its dedication to equipping Seton Hall students with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly connected and competitive professional world. With faculty fellows like Jennifer McCarthy joining the ranks, the Institute continues to ensure every student has the resources and support to grow into confident, capable leaders.

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