One student. One alumni. One question, answered—which can start a great conversation that leads to opportunities to learn, grow, and network.
To further prepare students for the winding path of life after graduation, we're having students ask those who have been there, our alumni, for advice.
In this match-up, we connected senior Jake Althouse to our alumna Amanda Sirian.
Jake Althouse
Year: Senior
Majors: History, political science
Career Goals: Work for the federal government in foreign policy or national security.
Amanda Sirian
Graduation Year: 2007
Major: Political science
Minor: History
Occupation: Marketing Coordinator, Election Systems and Software
Jake:
What was the most difficult part about the transition from college to the workplace?
Amanda:
The most difficult thing for me transitioning from college to the workplace was realizing that what I had thought would be my dream job ended up being something I didn’t enjoy. I spent my college career with the intention of working on campaigns, and was lucky to get a job on a presidential campaign as soon as I graduated. It only took a few months for me to realize that I did not like the lifestyle or the work as much as I thought I would.
However, it ended up being an amazing opportunity to use the skills and knowledge I learned during my political science studies in a new way. The first corporate job I had allowed me to keep growing my skills in communication strategies, legal research and data analysis. That put me on a path to discovering my true calling in learning and development, which I now do to help support elections all across the country.
Just remember that you have the ability to choose your path and that it is okay to decide that you want to take a stroll down a new one. You never know where it could lead!
Interesting in learning more from students or alumni? Then participate by visiting our Alumni and U page for details and submission forms
