Paterno Fellow
Major: Economics and Political Science
Minor: Spanish and Business for LA
Hometown: Downingtown, PA

How did you learn about this opportunity?

I had heard about the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program through Liberal Arts events and emails but really became interested from friends' recommendations. They spoke highly of the program and their mentors.

My mentor has really helped me at each stage of my college experience.

Tell us a little bit about your experience.

My mentor has really helped me at each stage of my college experience. Starting in my sophomore year, he helped me review my resume, look for internship and research opportunities, and provide professional career advise. Now as an upperclassman, the focus is more on finding internship/job opportunities. Since he is local, we meet over lunch or coffee usually once a month. At these meetings, we generally set goals, prep for interviews, discuss enrichment funding, and discuss progress with classes/internships.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I definitely became more focused. As someone who's still exploring specific careers, I know my mentor has helped me get in touch with professionals in those fields. Similarly, he has guided me to look into careers and internships which he feels might be a good fit. He's also helped me with goal setting. Whether it be working towards getting into the Paterno Fellows Program or exploring companies at the Career Fair, he has helped me along the way.

What are your career goals and plans?  How did this experience impact them?

After school, I want to gain working experience instead of going right to grad school. Even though I'm not entirely sure what I want to do, I know that I want to do a job that involves economic analysis and government. While my mentor does not have a background in economics, he is knowledgeable of government and frequently recommends different exploratory avenues. I've pursued research in these fields and plan to find an internship next summer in order to get a feel for what a job would be like.

Would you recommend this experience to other Liberal Arts students?

Absolutely, as I tell all of my friends, the program can only help. Mentors can serve any purpose that you need. I primarily needed a mentor to guide me in terms of internship and career opportunities. However, they can help you with classes, graduate school, public speaking and interviewing, etc. The program is a minimal time commitment but can provide huge benefits.