For WPI student Costanza Di Fino ’26, moving from Caracas to the United States to study electrical and computer engineering was both an exciting and demanding transition. As she prepares to graduate with a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering and a minor in FinTech, she is also preparing to launch her career as an Energy and Utilities Analyst with Burns & McDonnell in Boston.
Costanza credits much of her professional growth and career success to the support she received from the Heebner Career Development Center throughout her time at WPI.
“Coming to a new country for college was both exciting and challenging, but the HCDC helped me feel more prepared and confident professionally from the beginning,” she said. “They helped me realize how many opportunities were available to me and encouraged me to keep putting myself out there.”
From her freshman year onward, Costanza actively engaged with the Heebner Career Development Center by attending career fairs, networking events, employer information sessions, and professional development workshops. These experiences introduced her to a variety of industries and career paths within engineering while helping her build confidence in professional settings.
The HCDC also played a key role in helping Costanza secure her first internship early in her college career. Through resume reviews, interview preparation, one-on-one advising, and ongoing career guidance, she continued building experience and refining her professional goals throughout her time at WPI.
In addition to utilizing HCDC resources, Costanza worked at the Heebner Career Development Center as a student employee, an experience that further strengthened her communication, leadership, and networking skills. Over time, these opportunities helped her discover a strong interest in the energy and utilities industry and ultimately led her to her full-time role with Burns & McDonnell.
“The earlier you get involved, attend events, and connect with people, the more opportunities you create for yourself,” she said.
Looking back on her journey, Costanza encourages other WPI students to start their career preparation early and remain open to new experiences.
“My biggest advice is to take advantage of every opportunity, even if you feel nervous or inexperienced,” she said. “Go to career fairs, attend workshops, talk to recruiters, and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to explore different industries and experiences because sometimes the opportunities you least expect are the ones that help you discover what you truly enjoy doing.”
