Sophia Facey

It took Sophia a few years to realize that her twin passions, travel and event planning, could be a path to a fulfilling career.  She graduated from the New Rochelle campus in 1996 with a degree in Computer Science.  Several years later she worked at UBS Investment Bank as an Exchange Trade Derivatives Specialist and as a Facility Coordinator at Liberty International Underwriters. 

“I have always enjoyed travelling and event planning.  When I recognized my passion, did some research, and landed in the travel industry.  So while working full time in the financial industry I worked for approximately three years on a part-time basis as a travel agent.  A little over two years ago, I purchased a franchise and acquired my certifications and licenses.  This gave me the opportunity to work directly with top level executives and gain firsthand knowledge of what goes on in the industry.”

Last fall, Sophia worked with the Monroe College Alumni Association and planned an overnight ”Cruise to Nowhere” on the Norwegian Gem. 

Sophia is married and has two teenage boys.  She is fortunate that the whole family enjoys travelling on the trips she plans.

When asked for advice to give to future graduates, she conjures up something she once heard, “Your personality shapes your brand, values, integrity, core beliefs and ethics.  Think about what inspires and motivates you.  Wrap this around your brand story, it will be your brand for life.’