When Philip Okituama graduates in May 2025, he won’t be hunting for his first professional job. He already has one—something he credits to the support he received during the past two years as a student at Syracuse University School of Information Studies.
The first-generation Nigerian American originally from Newark, New Jersey, spent a year at Wells College before transferring to Syracuse—his top choice. He is set to receive his B.S. in Information Management and Technology with a concentration in project management.
“I chose the iSchool because it offered a blend of technology and business,” said Okituama, adding that he has thrived since setting foot at the University.
The curriculum was centered around technology and business, integrating knowledge on the new and emerging technologies, he explained. More importantly, being a student prepared him for life after graduation.
Immersive Networking Helps Students Get Ahead
In November 2024, Okituama was chosen to attend AfroTech conference in Houston, Texas, which set him on an upward career trajectory. The school organized the entire trip.
When in Houston, he attended inspiring educational sessions and got to network with a slew of technology companies.
“It was a lot of networking, a lot of opportunities,” said Okituama, who visited with just about every company there, sharing his résumé and pitching himself.
That’s when he met with a team from PNC Bank.
Upon returning back to Syracuse, he got to interview with the company and eventually landed a job as an associate analyst. He will relocate to Pittsburgh at the PNC Bank headquarters after he graduates to take on the role.
During the interview with PNC Bank, he spoke about his experiences at AfroTech and connected that experience to the banking giant. The connections made at the conference gave him an edge up, Okituama noted.
“It did help, just knowing somebody already within the organization,” he added.
Preparing for the Future
As a soon-to-be graduate of the Syracuse University iSchool, Okituama is proud of his journey and wants to start working before returning to pursue a higher degree. He’d like to use his career to give back to others, especially in Nigeria or his hometown of Newark, NJ.
“Being able to make an impact anywhere I can would be something that, ultimately, I want to do,” he said.
One thing that helped Okituama stand out in the professional world while still being a student was the intensive career coaching provided by staff at the University. They helped him prepare a résumé and put him through mock interview sessions so he could refine his responses. Ultimately, it helped him land the gig, he said.
For now, he’s headed into graduation pleased with the support he got as a student and looking forward to his first professional position.
“I feel like the iSchool definitely gives you a lot of preparation,” he said. Support from the staff, along with the trip to AfroTech, was key to getting the job, Okituama said.
“The team really tries to help you get to the next level of your career, not just get through school. They really try to see you succeed,” Okituama added.