1. How did you get started on this current path, becoming a leader at your University? What groups are you currently involved in.
One of the reasons I chose Bryant University was because I knew there was opportunity on this campus. I was very involved in high school with many programs such ROTC, DECA, and Student Government. I wanted that same opportunity, so when I came to Bryant I went to the Org Fair and tested out organizations that were meant for me. I wanted to give them my 110% effort, so I gave them my full dedication and that is how I am in the positions I am today.
Currently, I am the Editor-in-Chief and President of The Archway Newspaper, which is Bryant’s student run newspaper, which has been operating since 1946 I am a Student Ambassador, which allows me to give tours to perspective students. I am the Director of Alumni Relations for CEO, where I help connect the Alumni of Bryant to our members and have them come in and offer advice about post Bryant life. I am also President Machtley’s office assistant, Chapter Editor for the Sigma Chi Fraternity, and the Vice President of Public Relations for the Greek Inter-Fraternity Council
2. Any early life lessons that stand out which you would be willing to share with fellow students.
There are many life lessons that have stuck with me. These I learned through my parents and people I look up to or through life experiences.
– You don’t have to be the loudest in the room, always speak your mind, but it is more important to hear what others have to say. Think with an open mind.
-Lead by example. There is a difference between a manager and a leader, don’t be afraid or too good to do the dirty work. Show the people who look up to you that you would put them before yourself.
-Don’t be afraid to fail. There are many times that you will fall and it is how you get up is what makes you who you are.
-Confidence, not cockiness. Something my mother says every time I walk out the door. Be modest and kindhearted, not overall confident where people can’t accept you.
3. Do you have any quotes or books that have shaped your daily routine? What is your typical schedule like?
“Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So, love the people who treat you right and forget about the ones who don’t. And believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.”—Harvey MacKay
Always wear a smile is something that I try to do every day.
“Leave your Legacy”
My mornings and evenings usually consist of class work and study time. Throughout the week, I have various meetings with my groups as well as other commitments such as tour times, work at the office, gym time, and of course meals (the best part of the day). My day usually starts at around 8 or 9 am and I try to end it no later than midnight, so I can get a full night’s rest. I do also try to have some enjoyment time. For me that includes hanging out with my closest friends (my suite, my girlfriend Ana, and my fraternity brothers) or getting some fresh air and playing sports. I also have a huge passion for photography, so I try to get outside and shoot as much as I can. My weekend motto is work hard and play harder. So I try to get all of my studies and work done by the afternoon, so I can enjoy some well-deserved free time.
4. Share with us your most memorable experience at Bryant University and the impact its students can have on shaping Rhode Island’s future.
My most memorable experience at Bryant that impacted me and showed me how special Bryant is was the time I was Danny Zuko in the Bryant Players production of Grease. One of my favorite parts about high school was performing in the drama club, and I was awarded the opportunity to do the same at Bryant my freshman year. The support from not only all of my close friends and family members, who many traveled from a few states over all across the east coast to watch me, but the entire community as a whole. I had many strangers who approached me weeks later to congratulate me on my successful performance. This happened in the classroom, in the dining hall, and walks to campus. It showed me how special and united our campus was and it made me appreciate where I go to school.
The Bryant University community is like no other. From the students, to the faculty and staff, they are the most supportive and friendly group of people that I am thankful to have in my life. They say it takes a whole village to raise a child, and to be honest, the same concept works at Bryant. The community is the biggest support group and they are there for every student and member in all of their endeavors and heart aches.
5. What would you recommend to both incoming and current students who are
looking to engage actively on campus? What about the students who are not involved in any
extracurricular groups? What would your call to action message be to them?
I highly recommend getting involved and finding your niche. College is the best years of your life. The organizations you associate with are the ones who help you grown and network. Get involved, make friends, build your resume and gain experience, but more importantly have fun. I had many reasons to join everything I did, but one of the biggest reasons was to have fun. You’ll never work a day in your life if you are enjoying what you do.
For those students who aren’t involved yet, look around. There are hundreds of opportunities, it is up to you to go out there and find your calling. If something doesn’t interest you, start your own opportunity. Bryant is very well known for our entrepreneurs and innovators, be someone who leaves a mark and begin a new venture.
6. Where do you see yourself post-graduation?
I am still on the fence whether I want to attend graduate school to receive an MBA, head to law school, enter the work force or become a military officer. I have many passions and ideas that I want to explore, but in the next couple months I need to buckle down and decide a path. Ideally, I would love to get a finance or marketing job right out of college, and then attend to school after that, possibly attending OCS during that tenure.
My main goal is to own my own company with some of my many business ideas. I would like to also lead a company, after I gain the valuable experience throughout my years of growing up. I want to be able to award my family and help support them in the best possible way, because they have given me the world. I also want to give back to my communities (Southold, LI and of course Bryant University) in any way I can.
William Charles Tondo is a sophomore at Bryant University. He is from Southold, Long Island in New York. He is a Double Major in Marketing and Finance and a Minor in Communications. Currently he is involved in many organizations such as The Archway Newspaper, Bryant CEO, The Sigma Chi Fraternity and Student Ambassadors, just to name a few. William is a passionate and innovated student who wants to leave a mark on Bryant University’s campus in the most positive manner. He is thankful for Bryant for all of the opportunities that he has been blessed with.
Is Writing a Book Worth It? – Millennial Finance Author Jason Kirsch
1. How did you get started on this current path, becoming a leader at your University? What groups are you currently involved in.
One of the reasons I chose Bryant University was because I knew there was opportunity on this campus. I was very involved in high school with many programs such ROTC, DECA, and Student Government. I wanted that same opportunity, so when I came to Bryant I went to the Org Fair and tested out organizations that were meant for me. I wanted to give them my 110% effort, so I gave them my full dedication and that is how I am in the positions I am today.
Currently, I am the Editor-in-Chief and President of The Archway Newspaper, which is Bryant’s student run newspaper, which has been operating since 1946 I am a Student Ambassador, which allows me to give tours to perspective students. I am the Director of Alumni Relations for CEO, where I help connect the Alumni of Bryant to our members and have them come in and offer advice about post Bryant life. I am also President Machtley’s office assistant, Chapter Editor for the Sigma Chi Fraternity, and the Vice President of Public Relations for the Greek Inter-Fraternity Council
2. Any early life lessons that stand out which you would be willing to share with fellow students.
There are many life lessons that have stuck with me. These I learned through my parents and people I look up to or through life experiences.
– You don’t have to be the loudest in the room, always speak your mind, but it is more important to hear what others have to say. Think with an open mind.
-Lead by example. There is a difference between a manager and a leader, don’t be afraid or too good to do the dirty work. Show the people who look up to you that you would put them before yourself.
-Don’t be afraid to fail. There are many times that you will fall and it is how you get up is what makes you who you are.
-Confidence, not cockiness. Something my mother says every time I walk out the door. Be modest and kindhearted, not overall confident where people can’t accept you.
3. Do you have any quotes or books that have shaped your daily routine? What is your typical schedule like?
“Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So, love the people who treat you right and forget about the ones who don’t. And believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it.”—Harvey MacKay
Always wear a smile is something that I try to do every day.
“Leave your Legacy”
My mornings and evenings usually consist of class work and study time. Throughout the week, I have various meetings with my groups as well as other commitments such as tour times, work at the office, gym time, and of course meals (the best part of the day). My day usually starts at around 8 or 9 am and I try to end it no later than midnight, so I can get a full night’s rest. I do also try to have some enjoyment time. For me that includes hanging out with my closest friends (my suite, my girlfriend Ana, and my fraternity brothers) or getting some fresh air and playing sports. I also have a huge passion for photography, so I try to get outside and shoot as much as I can. My weekend motto is work hard and play harder. So I try to get all of my studies and work done by the afternoon, so I can enjoy some well-deserved free time.
4. Share with us your most memorable experience at Bryant University and the impact its students can have on shaping Rhode Island’s future.
My most memorable experience at Bryant that impacted me and showed me how special Bryant is was the time I was Danny Zuko in the Bryant Players production of Grease. One of my favorite parts about high school was performing in the drama club, and I was awarded the opportunity to do the same at Bryant my freshman year. The support from not only all of my close friends and family members, who many traveled from a few states over all across the east coast to watch me, but the entire community as a whole. I had many strangers who approached me weeks later to congratulate me on my successful performance. This happened in the classroom, in the dining hall, and walks to campus. It showed me how special and united our campus was and it made me appreciate where I go to school.
The Bryant University community is like no other. From the students, to the faculty and staff, they are the most supportive and friendly group of people that I am thankful to have in my life. They say it takes a whole village to raise a child, and to be honest, the same concept works at Bryant. The community is the biggest support group and they are there for every student and member in all of their endeavors and heart aches.
5. What would you recommend to both incoming and current students who are
looking to engage actively on campus? What about the students who are not involved in any
extracurricular groups? What would your call to action message be to them?
I highly recommend getting involved and finding your niche. College is the best years of your life. The organizations you associate with are the ones who help you grown and network. Get involved, make friends, build your resume and gain experience, but more importantly have fun. I had many reasons to join everything I did, but one of the biggest reasons was to have fun. You’ll never work a day in your life if you are enjoying what you do.
For those students who aren’t involved yet, look around. There are hundreds of opportunities, it is up to you to go out there and find your calling. If something doesn’t interest you, start your own opportunity. Bryant is very well known for our entrepreneurs and innovators, be someone who leaves a mark and begin a new venture.
6. Where do you see yourself post-graduation?
I am still on the fence whether I want to attend graduate school to receive an MBA, head to law school, enter the work force or become a military officer. I have many passions and ideas that I want to explore, but in the next couple months I need to buckle down and decide a path. Ideally, I would love to get a finance or marketing job right out of college, and then attend to school after that, possibly attending OCS during that tenure.
My main goal is to own my own company with some of my many business ideas. I would like to also lead a company, after I gain the valuable experience throughout my years of growing up. I want to be able to award my family and help support them in the best possible way, because they have given me the world. I also want to give back to my communities (Southold, LI and of course Bryant University) in any way I can.
William Charles Tondo is a sophomore at Bryant University. He is from Southold, Long Island in New York. He is a Double Major in Marketing and Finance and a Minor in Communications. Currently he is involved in many organizations such as The Archway Newspaper, Bryant CEO, The Sigma Chi Fraternity and Student Ambassadors, just to name a few. William is a passionate and innovated student who wants to leave a mark on Bryant University’s campus in the most positive manner. He is thankful for Bryant for all of the opportunities that he has been blessed with.