A group of talented and motivated student leaders from Catskill High School’s Business Club, Leadership Greene, and School Store program recently traveled to New York City for a full day of leadership experiences, corporate learning, and cultural exposure.
The day began early with a bus to the Hudson Amtrak station, where students boarded a train bound for New York City. Arriving at Penn Station around 9:20 a.m., the group hit the streets of Manhattan, walking to FOX News Corporate Headquarters at 121 Avenue of the Americas. There, executives warmly welcomed the students and gave them a behind-the-scenes look at how content is produced, marketed, and distributed at a major media corporation.
Students toured studios, production control rooms, and even sat in a corporate conference room with FOX producers and marketers for an engaging Q&A session. It was an eye-opening experience, giving students insight into media operations and the many career paths that exist within the industry.
After leaving FOX, the group navigated the subway system—an educational moment in itself—and made their way to Union Square, walking to Capital One’s Corporate Headquarters on 5th Avenue. Upon arrival, they were greeted with welcome signs, music, and a catered lunch, thanks to a team of gracious Capital One executives.
The highlight of the visit came from Catskill High School alumnus and Capital One Vice President Jude Anasta, who broke the ice with a crowd-pleasing card trick before leading a thoughtful panel discussion. Young professionals from Capital One shared their journeys through high school, college, and into the workforce, offering honest and powerful insights about personal challenges, resilience, and success. Students were not only attentive but actively engaged—asking thoughtful questions and networking with the panelists and other staff members.
Following the panel, students toured another nearby Capital One workspace—a vibrant, modern environment filled with collaborative rooms, lounges, game areas, and employee wellness spaces. The visit emphasized how great workplace culture can support success, and many students walked away inspired to pursue careers in such dynamic and people-centered companies.
To wrap up the day, students explored more of the city, including Broadway, the New York Public Library, and Grand Central Terminal, before catching a train to the New York Yankees game—a perfect conclusion to an already amazing day. Even better, the Yankees won, sending students home with big smiles and unforgettable memories.
Thanks to Catskill High School and its supportive staff and administration, students returned safely after a full day of exploration and inspiration.
