At the Salisbury Center, we are here to assist you in realizing and fulfilling your career objectives. We can help you assess your interests, values and skills in order to chart your direction. We oversee the HWS Career Network that we encourage you to join.
Brandi Ferrara Assistant Vice-President, Career Services
Brandi joined Hobart and William Smith in 1999 and is responsible for strategic leadership and management of the Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education. In addition to overseeing student career development programs, Brandi enjoys helping students to explore career options and engaging with alumni, alumnae and parents. She works with students in all career fields and with those interested in applying to graduate school. Brandi graduated from Johnson & Wales University with a master’s degree in teaching and bachelor’s degree in marketing.
Meet Sam Halfman, the Operations Manager for Career Services at HWS who stepped from his previous role of Graduate Programs Career Coordinator. With over 15 years of experience in student advising and career development—including a background as a high school special education teacher—Sam brings a deep commitment to helping students navigate their career journeys. He holds a Master of Science in Education from Roberts Wesleyan University and a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Allegheny College. In his current role, Sam oversees the daily operations of Career Services, supporting the team in delivering high-impact programs, streamlining services, and enhancing student engagement. As the former coordinator for graduate programs, he worked closely with master's students on career planning, resume development, interviewing, and networking. Sam continues to build strong connections with employers and campus partners, and is dedicated to helping all students make informed, confident decisions about their professional paths.
Chuck advises students and alumni/ae looking to enter the for-profit sector, with a special focus on business and finance careers. While assisting with career path identification, resume writing, interview prep and networking, Chuck also serves as the liaison with the Athletics Department and assists with events, workshops and career treks.
Prior to his return to HWS in 2021, Chuck spent 16 years in real estate as both an investor and as an agent, which was preceded by a 15-year career coaching college lacrosse and football. Chuck holds a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University at Albany and earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science.
Scott MacPhail, Ph.D. Director, Fellowships and Health Professions Advising
Dr. MacPhail advises students interested in careers in the health professions and students applying to nationally competitive fellowships. Prior to joining HWS, Scott was an academic advisor at the University of Rochester specializing in health professions advising. Scott holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in English from Indiana University – Bloomington, a master of fine arts degree in creative writing from the University of Idaho, a master’s degree in English from State University of New York at Stonybrook, and a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Chicago.
Shayne Feinberg P’17, P’20 Director, Employer Development and Engagement
Shayne works to identify internship and job opportunities for which students can apply in the “for-profit” sectors. In talking with alums, parents, and employers, she is able to develop opportunities in various fields such as finance, marketing, sales, real estate and publishing. Through on campus information sessions, as well as off-campus career trips, Shayne is able to give students real life examples of what different careers look like. On campus, she works with students to achieve their short term and long term career goals.
Julia Walsh-Postler Associate Director, Employer Development and Engagement
Julia supports students, employers, and alumni in exploring and providing meaningful career experiences. She identifies internship and job opportunities across a range of industries, including nonprofit, government, art and architecture, environmental fields, social sciences, education, and law.
Julia enjoys working closely with students to align their interests with career goals, helping them define clear objectives and take purposeful steps forward. She connects students with experiential learning opportunities through Career Treks, on-campus speakers, and alumni engagement.
Dedicated to fostering authentic connections, Julia helps students and alumni leverage their networks—alumni, parents, and employers alike—to pursue professional experiences that align with their aspirations.
Emily grew up in the Finger Lakes Region. She continued her education in NY and went on to gain a BA in Anthropology from SUNY Geneseo and eventually traveled to the UK to gain a Master's degree in Social Anthropology from the University of Kent. With a strong passion for global experiences, she has traveled extensively and built a career rooted in service and education. Emily has worked in the nonprofit sector with the Boys & Girls Club and in higher education, supporting students in international education and career development. She now serves as a Career Coach at Hobart and William Smith, where she focuses on guiding students through their first career services appointments.
Career assistants are well trained student para-professionals who are available to assist students by appointment with resume preparation. To schedule an appointment, request one on Handshake under Career Center. Look for format a resume with a Career Assistant.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education collaborates with internal and external partners to facilitate a comprehensive process that assists students in realizing and fulfilling their career objectives.
We value: Our ability to assess interest, values and skills in order to help create clarity, confidence and direction. Fostering strategic partnerships. Preparing our students to compete for opportunities. Engaging students, alumni, and alumnae in a thorough career development process.
Contact
Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education 300 Pulteney Street Geneva, NY 14456
