5 Questions with Alum Jennifer De Gaetano '19

As a 2019 graduate of the Massry School of Business with a dual degree in Business Administration Management and Financial Market Regulation, Jennifer De Gaetano has built a career that blends her passion for people with her foundation in finance.   

Now as a Senior Manager, HR Business Partner at Scotiabank, she credits her time on campus, inside and outside the classroom, with shaping the trajectory that led to her thriving career. In the conversation below, she reflects on the pivotal experiences, student leadership roles and mindset shifts that helped her get to where she is now.  

You have a dual degree in management and finance market regulation. Many students don’t immediately see a connection between a finance-focused degree and a career in HR. How did your academic background prepare you for your current role?     

I’ve always had a keen interest in finance, but early on, I wasn’t sure where I could add the most value. The industry has an inherent competitive spirit and is filled with some of the most capable professionals. Through networking with alumni, I discovered the many facets of the finance world and realized that you don’t have to be a banker to build a career on Wall Street. Human resources has allowed me to combine my passion for people with my interest in finance.    

Looking back, what stands out most about your time at the Massry School of Business? Were there particular courses, professors, or experiences that significantly influenced your career trajectory?     

Looking back, the most memorable aspects of my time in the School of Business happened outside the classroom, through time spent with dedicated alumni and student leaders. The executive board roles I held in Delta Sigma Pi - Zeta Psi (DSP) and Albany Sports Business Organization (ASBO) directly shaped my career path and provided practical experience that I later applied to roles involving event planning and recruiting.      

If I had to highlight one area of coursework, however, it would be the Excel-focused classes. Those technical skills are foundational—without them, navigating the business world can feel like flying a plane without wings.    

How did your Delta Sigma Pi - Zeta Psi experience contribute to your professional development? 

Delta Sigma Pi is the most important extracurricular activity I’ve been involved in and has greatly shaped how I approach my career. The organization provided both access to and preparation for the professional world. My first two roles came from the DSP career fair and my third role was secured through the DSP alumni network. My connection to Scotiabank began through one of my brothers in the organization, and I’ve been here ever since.    

You were recently promoted to Senior Manager, HR Business Partner at Scotiabank. What are you most looking forward to in your new role? How did you prepare for the new position? 

I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my career at Scotiabank and look forward to expanding my impact with the leaders I support across Corporate and Investment Banking. What I value most about my role is the chance to influence important career milestones and help solve complex people challenges. While much of my growth has come through hands-on experience and learning from incredible colleagues, mentorship and stretch projects have also played an important role in expanding my scope and perspective.    

If you could go back and tell your college self one thing, what would it be?  

Take full advantage of the opportunities right in front of you. It’s a unique time when employers are actively investing in your development through resume workshops, student organizations, and leadership experiences that allow you to explore and practice leading. Don’t be afraid to take risks and even fail—those moments often teach you the most and prepare you best for the real world.