What resources did you use on campus that you recommend current students use?

One resource that I did not use until my senior year is the career center.  I worked with Emily Carpenter who helped my carefully navigate the job application process.  She helped keep me on track, making sure I was always on schedule for interviews and applications.  Importantly, I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do after college when I first met with Emily.  She helped me think through my options to ensure that I wasn’t limiting myself. I’m very happy with where I ended up, and I give Emily and the career center a lot of credit for that.

Who were your mentors while you were on campus? Have you continued those relationships?

I’m sure I have too many mentors to name here, but I will mention a few.  Laura Ballou and Anne-Marie Algier in Wilson Commons Student Activities were both integral to my education. They taught me how to approach problems and how to navigate the University. Cam Schauf, Director of University Dining and Auxiliary Operations, really understands people and was always there to help me work through a problem.  Emily Carpenter in the career center helped keep me on track through the job application process.  The list could go on, but I’ll stop there.

What did you do immediately after graduation? How did you decide to take that path?

After graduation, I went to work at a company called Columbia Books & Information Services, a publisher of online and print information about the government relations and trade association communities.  I had interned there for a few summers in college, so it was an easy transition back.  Although I applied and interviewed for a number of different jobs in different industries, I ended up back at this company.  However, it was very important for me to interview at other companies as well, because I don’t have any questions or regrets about ending up back here.  I learned how valuable the internship experience is, as it shaped my post-college career.

How are you still connected with the University?

I try to stay involved with UR as much as possible.  I’m a member of the Young Alumni Council, and we plan a number of events throughout the year in DC (happy hours, baseball games, etc.).  It’s a great way to bring all the DC Young Alumni together.  I also interview prospective students through the UR Involved program.  This helps me get an idea of the pulse of students coming into the University, and selfishly lets me brag about how great it is to be a Yellowjacket. I come back to campus every Meliora Weekend (and plan to do so forever…). I keep in touch with my friends on campus, both staff and students. And I work with a fellow UR alum, so we clearly talk about UR every day!

What advice do you have for current students?

When I was on campus, the advice I would give to incoming freshman was to do everything. While I still would encourage you to get involved with every activity and group that you are interested in, I would add a disclaimer: do everything, but find time for your friends.  It’s such a unique environment to live, study and work right next to all of your closest friends.  Although I do keep in touch with my friends from UR, I often miss being able to sit at my desk and just shout their name, or walk up a flight of stairs and sit on their couch.  Make sure to spend time with your friends, because they’re the people that you will stay in touch with forever.

Why did you choose to attend the University of Rochester?

During my junior year of high school, I was assigned to write a paper for English class in which I researched three different colleges and selected the one that seemed to be the best fit for me. The college I chose was the University of Rochester, which at that time appealed to me for its strengths as a research institution, because I intended to study biology and ultimately pursue a career in genetic research (you’ll notice from my profile information that I wound up on a rather different path!). As a high school senior, I visited the U of R for the first time, and the moment I set foot on campus, I knew it was the place for me. That knowledge wasn’t based on any amount of earlier research or facts of any sort; it was simply an intuition based on the way I felt walking the grounds and touring the buildings. The only way I can describe it is to say I immediately felt at home. I still feel that way about the U of R to this day.

When and how did you choose your major?

In the end, I graduated with a double major in religion and psychology, but I changed my mind more times than I can count. Before I started at the U of R, I planned on majoring in biology. But I’ll never forget when the course catalogue arrived in the mail, the summer before my freshman year. I remember poring over the catalogue and realizing what a wide world had just opened to me. So many interesting subjects – anthropology, psychology, music, religion, philosophy, brain and cognitive sciences – I suddenly felt I had to try them all. I nearly did! By the time I graduated, I had dabbled in every subject listed above, and I had even declared majors that I later “undeclared.” (For those of you who are currently struggling with the decision of a major, rest assured that there is nothing wrong with changing your mind. I’m living proof!) Psychology was one of the subjects I gravitated towards early on, and I wound up sticking with it mainly as an interest (but not a professional pursuit). My introduction to the religion and classics department came through a course taught by Douglas Brooks, The Asian Search for Self. I like to jokingly say that was the course that “converted” me to being a religion major. It inspired me not only to pursue studies of South Asian religions and the Sanskrit language, but also to teach those subjects one day myself (again, you’ll note I wound up doing something a little different).

Who were your mentors while you were on campus? Have you continued those relationships?

The professors at the U of R, in my mind, are all exemplary teachers and mentors. Their passion for teaching and their investment in us as students is something that impresses me to this day. It’s what made me want to be a teacher myself, and although I wound up in a different career, I will always treasure the important relationships I formed with U of R faculty. In particular, Jonathan Geen, who at the time taught Sanskrit in the religion and classics department, became a very close mentor and dear friend over the course of my studies. We remain in contact over email, even though he now teaches at King’s University College in Ontario, Canada. Additionally, I am also still in touch with Daniel Harrison, who taught music theory, which I studied as part of my Take Five Scholars program. Dr. Harrison has also since left the U of R and currently teaches at Yale University.

What do you do now and why did you choose this career?

Currently I am Exhibition Coordinator for the Cleveland Museum of Art. I have held this position since September 2011; prior to that, I was Exhibits Coordinator for the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University for nearly five years. I discovered the Peabody Museum while studying at Harvard Divinity School; I met with a curator there while researching for a paper, and that conversation got me thinking about a museum career for the first time. That same curator later gave me a work study job in her department, followed by a temporary job after I graduated. My foot now in the door, I floated from one temporary appointment to the next, until the Exhibits Coordinator position was posted, and my boss at the time encouraged me to apply. I knew nothing about exhibition planning and very little about museum procedures in general, but I learned very quickly on the job and had a blast in the process. The position at the CMA was the ideal next step for me, because it represented the opportunity to advance in the museum world as well as cross over into the arts. Additionally, I am originally from the Cleveland area, so I have always admired this museum, and I am also glad to be near family again.

What advice do you have for current students?

Savor every moment! Honestly, you won’t believe how quickly time goes by. My decision to attend the University of Rochester is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and at the risk of sounding cliché, it truly changed my life. There is so much to appreciate about the U of R – the incredible faculty, the beautiful campus, your friendships with fellow students, all of the available programs and resources – and my best advice is really just to take advantage of as much as you can. You won’t regret it.

Why did you choose to attend the University of Rochester?

When I was a senior in high school considering my options for college, I had decided on two areas of study that I was interested in majoring in: Computer Science and psychology. Due to that, the schools I looked at were split into two groups: tech schools for CS and liberal arts schools for psych. When I came to the University of Rochester, I had a meeting with the chair of the CS department, who asked me what I wanted to major in. When I explained my situation, he simply said “why don’t you come here and do both?” Aside from being in love with the culture and atmosphere of the U of R, this sealed the deal.

What activities were you involved in as a student and what did you gain from them?

I was in several dance groups, a CSUG e-board member, involved in ResLife, and a few other clubs here and there, as well as a TA/Workshop Leader. Aside from a way to get out, try new things, and meet new people, getting involved in the leadership of those clubs had an incredible impact on my growth and experience at the U of R. I still use examples from various e-board positions when interviewing for positions, and it really brought my learning out of theory in the classroom to practice in the real world. Working with students across majors/interests is an incredibly valuable lesson in teamwork.

What resources did you use on campus that you recommend current students use?

Definitely do whatever you can to get involved in something that isn’t just academics. I fully believe that the college experience is about more than just what’s taught in the classroom. Check out the Activities Fair and the various clubs and activities available on campus – they can have a huge impact on your time at the University. Also, don’t be afraid of the career center: they’re there to help. They’re an incredible resource, and can really improve your job/internship search process.

What did you do immediately after graduation? How did you decide to take that path?

I decided to go straight to work as a software developer when I graduated because I was a little tired of academia after so many years, and I also wanted to get some good real world experience in software development/the software industry. After discovering that pure software development wasn’t exactly what I wanted, I decided to leave my first job for a position as a UI Designer, which is more in line with what I focused on in college and what I am truly interested in/passionate about.

What skills, tools, or knowledge from your major have been most useful to you since graduation?

One of the greatest things you learn while at the U of R, whether you recognized it or not, is the ability to adapt (especially when it comes to computer science). We’re taught many things while in college, but not many of those things directly apply to the real world. What learning all of those things teaches us, though, is the ability to learn and to adapt yourself to a variety of tasks, and to constantly be learning and reinventing yourself. This plasticity is one of the most valuable assets in the job market today.

How are you still connected with the University?

I keep in touch with a lot of my underclassman friends that are still at the University, as well as a handful of my now-fellow-alumni friends. I usually make a trip back every semester to catch up with folks and to see the BPG show every semester, as I was heavily involved with that group in my time. I read all of the newsletters and publications that come from the U of R, and occasionally drop by the homepage/other group pages just to keep tabs on things.

What advice do you have for current students?

Get involved with something. Your education is more than what you learn in class, and getting yourself involved in something you’re really passionate about will keep you connected to the University far beyond your years there. It’s a way of leaving your mark on the University, and having something to point to and say “I did that.” The experiences you’ll gain from those challenges will be indispensable in the scope of your entire education, and you’ll enjoy school a lot more than if you just go to class and study.

When and how did you choose your major?

I chose my major in my sophomore year.  I took an introductory economics course, and really enjoyed the subject matter.   For the next three years, I became engrossed in the use of economics to explain rational human behavior and solve problems in society.

What activities were you involved in as a student and what did you gain from them?

I was on the board of the Community Service Network and the Panhellenic Association.  My participation in these organizations taught me responsibility and how to successfully collaborate with a team.  I ran the Big Brother Big Sister program at the University, which allowed me to continue the commitment to community service that I had developed in high school, and taught me about the benefits and challenges of leadership.

What resources did you use on campus that you recommend current students use?

CLARC for late-night studying, the Reading Room in the library for outlining, and the stacks for hunkering down and studying for exams.

What did you do immediately after graduation? How did you decide to take that path?

I went to Law School.  I minored in English Literature and enjoy writing.  As much as I loved economics, I found that most jobs and graduate programs were too quantitatively based for me.  I spoke with many law students and attorneys who advised me that practicing law could be a career that allowed me to utilize economic principles and write.

What do you do now and why did you choose this career?

I am a litigator.  My love of writing led me to choose to become a litigator after Law School.

How do you balance your work and personal life?

I find it important to schedule in time to see my husband and child. I try to spend time with them in the mornings and after work and on the weekends.  I also schedule in time with friends.  We’ll meet for drinks or dinner one night a week and meet for brunch on the weekends.

How are you still connected with the University?

I am a George Eastman Circle Member, a member of the New York New Leaders Cabinet, a member of my class’s reunion committee, and I interview perspective students as part of Rochester’s recruitment efforts.

What advice do you have for current students?

Find at least one thing you are passionate about but never stop learning about as many new things as you can.

When and how did you choose your major?

I went through several different majors during my first two years before finally settling on History. I took many English and computer science courses – all of which were highly interesting – but settled on history because of a few excellent professors in that discipline (Hauser, Kaeuper). History seemed the best fit to me as it combined an understanding reading, science, and applicability to the current state of affairs at the time (9/11 happened while I was a sophomore and a lot of conversations as to the cause of it made me look backwards to understand why).

What activities were you involved in as a student, and what did you gain from them?

I was involved the most in creating JUR (Journal of Undergraduate Research), which was instrumental in getting me into the research world. The understanding that anyone, regardless of their discipline or how advanced they may be in their research, can contribute to our understanding of science, humanities, and the human condition was eye-opening. I credit my involvement in JUR to the research position I have today.

What do you do now and why did you choose this career?

I am a project manager for a small consulting firm that specializes in the evaluation of public health programs and policies. These days, I spend most of my time working with various communities around the United States providing advice and evaluation technical assistance on their interventions for childhood obesity. I find it highly rewarding, and it stems directly from my interests and experiences doing research and learning about the historical precedents for the inequalities in health we have today.

How do you balance your work and personal life?

This is difficult – I work long hours during the week and travel frequently. But, my passion is cycling, so I try to spend my spare time working on bikes, teaching others about bicycle maintenance, or going on rides in the Midwest. I try to make sure that I spend at least a few hours a week doing what I love. Vacations are nice, but I rarely have time for them. So, cultivating friendships at work can be helpful!

What advice do you have for current students?

Try to get a combination of real world skills (internships, student clubs, jobs) and research knowledge through your experience at Rochester. While the economic situation can be bleak and it may take you a while to find your footing, you should know that as long as you are having a good experience or gaining skills, you are moving upward. I have had jobs paying between $10,000 a year and $55,000 a year since graduation, but I would not have the latter if I didn’t spend some time working at some of the former, low-paying positions. Good luck!

What activities were you involved in as a student and what did you gain from them?

I was active as both a fraternity brother and a Yellow-jacket. Both of these organizations led to amazing experiences and lasting friendships. Additionally, working with these groups helped develop skills that have been an asset in the working world, such as working as a team, conducting effective meetings, and managing the relationships and politics of the business world.

What resources did you use on campus that you recommend current students use?

UR’s career center is a great resource that is under utilized by undergraduates. The résumé and interview coaching resources are stellar, but the career center especially shines in helping students identify their talents and aspirations. I recommend students go early and often in their undergraduate careers. It’s essential for students to prioritize this area of their education in conjunction with their class work.

Who were your mentors while you were on campus? Have you continued those relationships?

It was my manner to seek help and advice from other students more than from the staff and educators at the university. I encourage students to reach out and connect with their professors and other university staff, but remember that the greatest resource available is often their peers.

What do you do now and why did you choose this career?

I’m currently an analyst for KJT Group in Honeoye Falls, NY. KJT Group is an evidence-based consulting firm, and we focus on market research primarily in the healthcare industry. Much of my work involves pricing and forecast modeling for pharmaceutical products, but I also do many analyses to better understand brand relationships and marketing opportunities.

What skills, tools, or knowledge from your major have been most useful to you since graduation?

Surprisingly, study skills and note taking have been far more valuable than I would have expected. While much of the statistics I learned at UR serves as a base for my current work, nearly everything I do requires additional and continuing study to expand my capabilities and keep pace with emerging techniques. Similarly, critical and analytical thinking skills learned at UR have played a much larger role in my current work that any specific topic of study.

How do you balance your work and personal life?

I’m fortunate to work for a company that strives for solid work-life balance. Occasionally, long hours are required, but efforts to stay happy and healthy during lighter weeks makes excelling during the difficult weeks far more achievable—it’s often a rewarding experience to come together as a team and really crush a project. I also try to make sure my life outside of work is active. I think it’s important to keep pushing yourself to stay social and find activities you’re passionate about.

Where would you like to be in five years?

One of the advantages of working for a small company is the opportunity to wear multiple hats. In five years, I would like to expand my responsibilities beyond analytics and have a role influencing the business decisions of the company.

What advice do you have for current students?

Keep exploring opportunities, for fresh, unique experiences are abundant in college, and taking advantage of them leads to an extremely rewarding experience. Once you’re out of college, keep that exploration in mind. The responsibilities that accompany a career, family, and home can quickly marginalize your passions. Make it a priority to keep trying new things, meeting new people, and pursuing the things you love.