Utilizing Scout’s Alumni Network for Co-op, Careers, and Beyond

✨Some sc-alumni came to answer all our questions — and here’s what they had to say!

Thank you to everyone who attended our Club Scout Alumni Event last week, where alumni Ramin Kohanteb and Jonathan Northcott came to share their professional experiences in and beyond Scout. The event kicked off with an introduction and overview, followed by a Q&A session with student attendees. Ramin and Jonathan elaborated on their time in Scout, what it was like working on real-world client projects, and the post-grad uncertainty that comes with beginning your career journey.

Weren’t able to make it? No worries! Here’s a recap of some key takeaways.

Ramin Kohanteb, former Scout designer and Northeastern University class of 2015

Ramin spoke to us through Zoom and discussed working in branding and visual experience production at Disney. Like many students, Ramin was introduced to Disney through an internship. After 6 years, he went from an intern, to graphic design lead, to part of the founding leadership team of Disney Emerging Professionals!

Ramin’s advice:

• The best strategy is being honest with yourself and in touch with your emotions
• No matter what you’re doing or where you’re working, whether it’s a tiny startup or huge agency, what matters is how you feel at the end of the day
• Does this job energize you? Or does it drain you? Do you feel like you can reach your full potential here?
• Advocate for yourself — don’t wait for someone else to help you. Nobody will come and just give you a promotion or a pay bump, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and stand up for your career needs!
• Networking is your biggest resource. Maintain connections from past co-ops and internships, and try to develop a mentor/mentee relationship during your time there
• Don’t let rejection scare you — it is never personal and a part of life

Jonathan Northcott, former Scout developer and Northeastern University class of 2019

Jonathan was a developer in Scout and now works as a data engineer at SecurityTrails, a data security company located in Los Angeles, CA. Jonathan focused on how his time as a project lead for Scout Studio allowed him to collaborate with real-world clients, cultivate leadership skills, and build unique resume experience.

Jonathan’s advice:

• Don’t be worried about your age or experience compared to others. Everyone had to start somewhere in their professional journeys
• Take advantage of your time in Scout. Scout can be so fulfilling from a professional aspect, but also socially and personally! You will make lifelong friends and connections
• Leading a team of other designers and developers to an end goal is a huge feat that will allow you to build strong leadership skills
• Your projects in Scout are unique and will set you apart
• Utilize Northeastern’s resources: Clubs and Mosaic organizations give you an opportunity to be in positions and have responsibilities you would not otherwise have

Key Takeaways

Both Jonathan and Ramin emphasized the importance of networking and using your resources to connect with the greater Northeastern design community. There are so many ways you can grow this network, from LinkedIn to career fairs to catching up with past managers and mentors. And don’t forget — Scout can be one of the biggest resources for you, whether you’re a current member, past member, or prospective one!

Club Scout

Want more career tips and tricks? Looking to expand your own network in the Northeastern design community and beyond? Stay tuned for more Club Scout events coming this fall!

On Tuesday, November 1, we’ll be holding an Ask Scout Q&A at 6:15 PM in Shillman Hall. Lead by current Scout members, you can discover more about us as an organization, get your portfolio or resume reviewed, and learn how you can join!

For more information on the upcoming panel, check out this interest form HERE.

💫 That’s all for now! Thanks for reading!💫