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Student Spotlight: Jenna Zoyack
Jenna Zoyack ‘25 (Business Administration), from Rochester, transferred to Roberts Wesleyan University in the Spring of 2022. Jenna shared, “On my first day, Professor William Todd came up to me. He said, ‘I know a good student when I see one,’ and from that point on, he truly invested in my development, encouraging me to build my confidence and consistently pushing me to reach my full potential.”
Jenna has had internships in four semesters and two different businesses. “I am very proud of how far I’ve come in the last three years at Roberts,” she said.
Here's a closer look at Jenna's journey and experiences at Roberts Wesleyan University.
ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE
What is the best thing about studying Business Administration?
Group Projects! I’ve had great experiences working on a team in my business classes, including Organizational Behavior, Strategic Management, and Marketing Management. They have all been an opportunity to collaborate with classmates, build relationships, and create something amazing together. I’ve also learned a lot from my business professors, who have really invested their time and energy to create course activities that foster growth and that we can use in our careers, including team building, leadership, and strategy.
Who is your favorite professor and why?
Professor William Todd! When I transferred to Roberts, I changed my major to Business Administration after being a Biology major. During my first semester at Roberts, I took Intro to Business and Principles of Marketing, both with Professor Todd.
This past fall, he even entrusted me with leading our marketing project for our Marketing Management class. I truly appreciate our relationship and the immense support he’s given me throughout the last three years!
What academic or professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
As I look to graduation in May, I am proud to say I’ll be graduating with four semesters worth of internships (three of which at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield), I lead a marketing project for Roberts Athletics in Marketing Management class, have built many connections and relationships, and have grown in so many ways. While graduation is bittersweet, I am ready for the next chapter!
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Can you share about your internship experiences?
In fall 2023, I was just beginning my junior year, and I attended Excellus BlueCross
BlueShield’s networking event focused on summer internships. I met so many professionals and learned about their many roles. I applied to several of their positions, but my first interview didn’t result in an offer. A few weeks later, I received an email inviting me to interview for a different position with Excellus. I prepared tirelessly, and when I got the offer, I was over the moon.
Fast forward to this spring, I’ve been with Excellus since June 2024 and have had the opportunity to work in different departments to gain more experience. Throughout my internship with the company, I’ve contributed to two impactful projects, built strong professional relationships, and grown both personally and professionally.
What do you see yourself doing as a career?
While I may not know what my future holds, I am confident that my academic and internship experiences have taught me the value of teamwork, maintaining a growth mindset, and fostering meaningful relationships—all while having fun! I have developed a strong passion for various aspects of business, particularly project management and leadership. Above all, I want to be in a place where I can continue to learn, evolve, and connect with others.
PERSONAL INSIGHTS
What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?
My advice is to stay motivated and resilient. Utilize Career Development resources, apply for opportunities, attend networking events, and build connections—you never know where they might lead. Even if you face rejection, remember that better opportunities are ahead. Be kind to yourself and hold yourself in high regard. How you view yourself is how others will see you. Strive for growth, respect your worth, and remember you have much to offer.
What is your favorite thing about Rochester?
Park Ave is one of my favorite places. I love walking there in the summer, going to The Chai Guy, and enjoying dinner outside at Vern’s. Going to Highland Park while the lilacs are in bloom is also a very peaceful experience.
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As Jenna prepares to graduate in May with impressive internship experience and strong academic achievements, she exemplifies what makes Roberts students stand out. Her journey from transfer student to confident business professional demonstrates the power of mentorship, perseverance, and embracing opportunities. We look forward to seeing where Jenna's journey takes her next!
FACULTY FEEDBACK
"From the moment Jenna transferred to Roberts Wesleyan University, I recognized something special in her—a rare combination of intellectual curiosity and determination," says Professor William Todd. "What's remarkable about Jenna is her willingness to embrace every challenge with enthusiasm. Whether leading our marketing project or juggling multiple internships while maintaining academic excellence, she consistently steps up with a 'can-do' attitude that inspires her peers. I've watched her transform from a biology transfer student uncertain about business to a confident professional ready to make her mark. Jenna embodies what we hope to cultivate in all our students: resilience, adaptability, and an insatiable appetite for growth. Her success isn't just about what she's learned in the classroom—it's about how she's applied that knowledge with initiative and purpose. I have no doubt she'll continue to excel in whatever path she chooses."
- Professor William Todd
STAFF FEEDBACK
“One of the most impressive aspects of Jenna’s journey is her proactive approach to career development. From the moment she scheduled her first one-on-one appointment with me in the Career Center, she demonstrated a strong commitment to investing in herself, her professional growth, and her career readiness. Jenna consistently sought opportunities to improve—asking thoughtful questions about interviewing strategies, refining her resume through multiple reviews, participating in our annual Career Connections Expo, and engaging fully in mock interviews. She embraced feedback with openness and humility, using each experience to strengthen her skills and build her confidence.
Through every internship and career preparation opportunity, Jenna has grown tremendously. I am extremely proud of her and have no doubt she will continue to thrive in her professional journey after Roberts. I’m excited to see all that she will accomplish.”
- Kathleen D. Raniewicz, Career Success Coach
