Liberal Arts Majors: Communication Arts and Sciences, English

Liberal Arts Minors: Rhetoric

Hometown: Bethel Park, PA

Current Location:  Zelienople, PA

What enrichment activities did you participate in as a student?

During my time at Penn State, I interned at the local Artistry store called The Artisan Connection, which unfortunately no longer exists. I wrote press releases and biographies about local/national artists, created displays and handled transactional sales and questions at the store.

What was your first job after graduating from Penn State?

My first job after graduation was a Customer Solution Specialist for a national appraisal management company. I maintained customer expectations for the appraisal, title and bpo process while working cross-functionally both with internal sourcing teams and external vendors.

What was your favorite class?

My favorite class was titled "What do you do with a BA in English?". I knew I never wanted to be a teacher or technical writer but wasn't sure what I DID want to make my career. We met with the VP of a publishing company, an Attorney General, etc. Having speakers come in to speak to our class at the time was a great experience. In 2009 / 2010 technology wasn't quite as prevalent as it is today, nor was the understanding that non-technical degrees had pathways in technology too. It would have been great to have connected with individuals like myself in present day as well.

How did your liberal arts education and skills prepare you for life after graduation?

It's sometimes said that even the smartest people aren't efficient or effective because they simply cannot communicate or work well with others. My liberal arts education taught me how to communicate, speak professionally, utilize and hone my relationship-building skills, and double down on empathy via emotional intelligence. Every career, industry, and role I've worked in has benefited from this foundation.

What networking advice would you share with current students?

Networking has helped me make many personal connections or warm introductions when starting or applying for new roles. I definitely recommend students start networking and growing connections to help with securing employment or even internship opportunities. The sooner you start, the better! I like to suggest that individuals find an alumni on LinkedIn with a career title or path they'd like to emulate and have them reach out to see if the person is willing to spend 30 minutes talking to them, answering questions, and/or possibly referring them to their network. The only answer if you never ask is no.

What role have mentors played in your career progression?

Mentors have been at the core of what I do and who I am - enhancing and growing my personal and professional persona along the journey. As a woman working in technology and as a first generation college graduate, I wouldn't be where I am today without the mentors I've had throughout the years. My mentors have given advice on navigating professional situations, pointers on skills I can improve, motivation to tackle the most challenging situations and most importantly, a celebration of the victories I've achieved.

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