Joseph DiBella ’99 finds his niche in the
insurance industry. A psychology major at
St. Lawrence, Joe started his career in the insurance industry by
taking an internship during college. His internship gave him the
edge and experience he needed to become a licensed agent, and he
was hired by NY Life in the fall of 1999.
Asked how his academic experience at SLU helps him in his career,
he says, “From a major standpoint, we in the industry talk
about the psychology of a sale, emotions and how people go through
that thought process. You also have to know how to deal with people
in bad times, like the death of a spouse.” He also cites the
independence he gained during college, and the importance of time
management. As a member of the football team, he says: “Being
a student athlete helped me structure my time. I’m self-employed;
I don’t have anyone to tell me where I have to be, when I have
to be there.”
His advice to current students is to “experience as
much as you can; take advantage of all the tools that
are at your disposal. I always regretted not having the time to
go abroad. There’s so much to learn outside the classroom.”
A partner of the DiBella financial group, DiBella is still involved
with St. Lawrence. He held a seat on the Reunion Development
Committee, and maintains strong friendships and relationships with
St. Lawrence alums. In fact, he met his wife at St. Lawrence. He
is a member of the Manley Society, which recognizes those
who have planned a deferred gift to St. Lawrence through their will
or estate.
Amazing
Alumni