Inside the University of Rochester’s playbook for helping alumni land their dream jobs

How alumni resources guided Mary Bucklin ’16 from research to industry success

Mary graduated from the University of Rochester with an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering in 2016.

Making a career pivot can be daunting—especially when you’re stepping into uncharted territory. For Mary Bucklin ’16, shifting from academic research to a role in industry wasn’t just about changing jobs. It was about discovering new strengths, building confidence, and finding a support system that could help guide her through an uncertain transition.

Even after completing a PhD in biomedical engineering and working as a postdoctoral researcher, Mary was still figuring out her path. She had developed a passion for scientific writing—drafting grant proposals, preparing award-winning conference presentations, and realizing how much she enjoyed translating complex research into impactful narratives. But like many professionals looking to pivot, she was unsure how to take the first step.

“I had the skills,” Mary says. “But I didn’t know how to apply them in a different setting, or even what roles might be a good fit. That’s when I turned to the Career Resources offered to University of Rochester alumni—and it changed everything.”

From uncertainty to action

A single email to the University unlocked a flood of opportunity. Mary was introduced to The Meliora Collective’s Mentorship Program, one-on-one career coaching, and a calendar of virtual events designed to empower alumni at any career stage. She jumped in with both feet.

“Working with a career coach and participating in mentoring gave me clarity,” Mary explains. “They helped me update my resume, refine my networking approach, and develop the confidence I needed to move forward.”

Mary also discovered how to use LinkedIn as a strategic tool. After attending a virtual workshop on personal branding and outreach, she began connecting with professionals in medical writing—a field she hadn’t previously considered. That single tactic sparked more than 50 conversations, opened doors to job interviews, and even led to direct referrals.

Community that lifts you up

For Mary, one of the most powerful takeaways has been the feeling of support and belonging.

“Getting a job is often about who you know,” she says. “The Rochester community has been that network for me. From coaches to mentors to fellow alumni, I’ve had people cheering me on and guiding me at every step.”

Her mentor offered firsthand insight into careers in industry and helped Mary understand the value of her academic background in new contexts. Meanwhile, her career coach encouraged her to reflect on what she really wanted and what she was capable of.

“It was about more than resumes or interviews,” Mary says. “It was about realizing that I had options, and I wasn’t alone in figuring them out.”

Encouraging others to reach out

Now actively pursuing roles in medical writing, Mary feels energized by the possibilities ahead. And she’s passionate about helping other alumni see what’s possible, too.

“My advice? Just send the email,” she says. “Explain where you are in your career and what you’re looking for. That’s exactly how I started, and I was blown away by the response.”

Mary’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to have all the answers to begin. What matters is taking that first step—and being open to what comes next.

“I’m so grateful for the guidance I received,” she says. “It’s made me more confident, more connected, and more excited about the future.”