Liberal Arts Major: International Politics
Chapel Executive Intern Alumni
Hometown: West Chester, PA
Current Location: Washington, D.C.
What enrichment activities did you participate in as a student?
While at Penn State I interned at lobbying firms in Washington D.C.—first at Innovative Federal Strategies during the summer of my sophomore year and at Kyle House Group during the summer of my senior year. During the fall of my junior year, I traveled abroad to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I stayed with a host family and took all classes in Spanish, including Argentine literature and history classes.
What was your first job after graduating from Penn State?
I worked as global data analyst at Bloomberg, LP upon graduating from Penn State in the company's office in Skillman, New Jersey.
What was your favorite class?
One of my favorite classes was PSYCH 105 Psychology as a Science and Profession with Professor Andrew Peck. He made the class interactive and allowed students to take a glimpse into what actual roles await them when they leave Penn State.
How did the Paterno Fellows Program enhance your experiences and opportunities as a student?
Paterno Fellows provided me with the opportunity to surround myself with driven individuals who were focused on making the best of their experiences at Penn State, regardless of whether they knew their intended goal upon graduating.
How did your liberal arts education and skills prepare you for life after graduation?
I believe some of the best skills in the workplace are the soft skills, one honed during a liberal arts education. At the top of my list are speaking ability, writing competency, and the ability to leverage emotional intelligence in work and personal settings. Interestingly, I ventured into the world of investments after graduating, and it has been the soft skills that have allowed me to effectively communicate and rise within my organizations.
What networking advice would you share with current students?
While networking did not land me a direct role, I've leveraged the Penn State network to have coffee chats and email exchanges with alumni who are more than happy to share their experiences and tips. I did this more when trying to break into the investment space and am excited to turn around and help those interested in a similar path.
What role have mentors played in your career progression?
Mentors, both formal and informal, have played a large role. Through conversations I have been able to take on and learn from many years worth of experience and knowledge. My interactions helped me to increase my confidence and shorten my learning curve fresh out of school. With that said, I don't think one's learning is ever complete and am always looking at those farther down their career path for tips and hints.