Elijah Cordero

"I was lucky to have great advisers at YPIE. Having mentors who listened, answered my questions, and shared their experiences made all the difference."

• Lincoln High School

• University of Mount Saint Vincent, Communications with a Minor in Business, Class of 2026

• Marketing & Events Intern, Yonkers Public Library Foundation

• Retail Sales Manager, Levi's Outlet, Cross County Center

• YPIE Mentors: Cindy Zarzuela (College Advisor), Raissa Fitzgerald (College Success Advisor), Mark (Career Connections Mentor)

How did you first become involved with YPIE?

I joined YPIE during the pandemic, when so much of school was remote or closed. Having Cindy, my YPIE college advisor at Lincoln High School, made a huge difference. Every Tuesday, we met at the YPIE College Center, where she helped me explore colleges, think through my interests, and navigate the application process.

I knew I wanted to study business and had a strong interest in music, but I also had many worries about college. I was nervous about leaving my small high school for a much larger campus. I worried about paying for college, taking on loans, and being far from home and my friends.

Cindy helped me work through all of those concerns. She introduced me to colleges I hadn't considered and encouraged me to keep an open mind about finding the right fit.

She also paired me with a volunteer college essay coach, Elise, who worked with me through multiple drafts until my college essay was exactly where I wanted it to be.

I was accepted to both Oswego and Binghamton and originally planned to leave home. But as graduation approached, I realized I wanted to stay closer to my family while still having the experience of living on campus. At the last minute, I applied to the University of Mount Saint Vincent and received a scholarship covering both my tuition and housing.

I began as a Business major before discovering that Communications was an even better fit. I switched my major, added a Business minor, and found that I really enjoyed learning about marketing and how companies connect with consumers.

Who at YPIE made the biggest impact on your journey?

After graduating from high school, I continued meeting with my YPIE College Success Advisor, Raissa Fitzgerald, throughout all four years of college.

Every month, we checked in to talk about my classes, grades, and any challenges I was facing. She made sure I stayed on track academically and guided me through the FAFSA process every year.

Knowing I had someone who genuinely cared about my success gave me confidence throughout college.

What did you enjoy most about college?

Living on campus completely changed my college experience.

During my sophomore year, I joined student government as a Senator representing the Class of 2026. I advocated for healthier dining options and organized campus activities, including a "Design Your Own Tote Bag" event, to help bring students together and create a stronger sense of community.

Being involved outside the classroom helped me grow as both a leader and a communicator.

How did YPIE help prepare you for your career?

YPIE helped me build both professional connections and practical experience.

Raissa introduced me to Nick Chiarella, who manages Mayor Mike Spano's social media. Although my class schedule ultimately prevented me from pursuing an internship there, meeting a communications professional and learning about his work was a valuable networking experience.

Later, during my senior year, I worked closely with Mark through YPIE's Career Connections program. Mark helped me strengthen my LinkedIn profile and polish my resume until they were the best they could be.

Because of that preparation, I secured an internship with the Yonkers Public Library Foundation through my college faculty advisor. I spent the semester helping organize and promote the library's annual Gala, an experience that aligned perfectly with my long-term career interests.

What are you doing after graduation?

While finishing my senior year, I was promoted to Retail Sales Manager at the Levi's Outlet at Cross County Center. After graduation, I'll transition into the role full-time.

The position has already given me opportunities that connect directly to my career goals. During my first month, I worked at a Levi's event featuring country music artist Shaboozey, assisting VIP guests and customizing shirts for concert attendees.

Experiences like these have reinforced my interest in event marketing and brand activation.

My goal is to build a career coordinating events, conferences, pop-up experiences, and marketing campaigns for major brands. Eventually, I'd love to grow into a corporate role focused on social media, marketing, and brand development.

What advice would you give current YPIE students?

Don't let fear stop you.

Everyone worries about college or the future at some point, but don't give up when things feel challenging. Face every opportunity with confidence and an open mind.

Most importantly, find people you trust and ask for help. Cindy helped me find the right college, Raissa supported me throughout all four years of college, and Mark helped me prepare for internships and my career. I was lucky to have great advisers at YPIE. Having mentors who listened, answered my questions, and shared their experiences made all the difference.