Liberal Arts Major: International Politics
Liberal Arts Minor: French and Francophone Studies
Hometown: Gettysburg, PA
Current Location: Fredericksburg, VA
What enrichment activities did you participate in as a student?
While at Penn State, I did a work program in rural France the summer between my sophomore and junior years that developed my love of travel and adventure. The following summer I began my federal government career with an internship with the Department of Defense.
What was your first job after graduating from Penn State?
After graduation, I served in the Defense Department studying the Soviet threat in Washington, D.C.
What were your favorite classes?
I loved all my geography classes, the Biology of Sex with Dr. Wickersham, and Theatre 101 with Dr. Helen Manfull.
How did your liberal arts education and skills prepare you for life after graduation?
I learned critical thinking and communication skills, particularly writing. My many activities at Penn State also enhanced my multi-tasking skills. I studied French and American Sign Language and found that I had a knack for languages and have since learned Indonesian and Spanish.
What networking advice do you have for current students?
Never burn bridges, and do not hesitate to reach out to those you have worked with.
What role have mentors played in your career progression?
Mentors have guided me through the good and the bad and have been supportive throughout. They recognized my love of education and facilitated my own training, as well as my training of others, all over the world.