Liberal Arts Majors: Economics, Psychology
Hometown: United States
Experience Time: Spring 2021

Give us a brief summary of your experience?

I am so thankful to be a part of the Alumni Mentor Program. I was perfectly matched with Mary Claire Schneider, who is always there to support and encourage me to pursue my goals. She is always willing to help me prepare for an interview, practicing questions and showing me how to stand out from other applicants. I have been able to ask her countless questions about her time at Penn State and how best to prepare for a future career with a Liberal Arts degree.

How did this experience impact you academically?

I am academically stronger because I have a mentor who helps me find my college work/life balance. After talking with Mary Claire, I learned to reach out to professors regarding research opportunities rather than waiting to see them posted. She has also recommended specific courses which she finds relevant in her career.

"My mentor has been able to connect me with other alumni who have helped me to explore and learn about different career paths."

How will this experience impact your career goals?

The most important thing I can take away from my experience with the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network is access to Penn State alumni. Through these connections, I've realized that relationships are just as important as getting good grades. My mentor has been able to connect me with other alumni who have helped me to explore and learn about different career paths.

How has the College of the Liberal Arts helped you to find and/or succeed in this experience (e.g., adviser, faculty, staff, enrichment funds, etc.)?

The College of the Liberal Arts has so many resources that I have used, as well as connecting me with my alumni mentor, Mary Claire. I have been able to get my resume reviewed and targeted for each opportunity and application. I have also received funding from the College of the Liberal Arts to support the psychology research I am doing this summer!