What is your position here and how long have you worked at O’Dowd? This is my third year on campus and my second year coordinating the Career Partnerships Program. Prior to my CPP role, I worked on fundraising events in the Advancement Department.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received (generally – it doesn’t have to be related to O’Dowd)? When I was growing up I spent a lot of time visiting with an older neighbor who was housebound. She delighted in sharing tales of her life and loved to give advice. As I was approaching high school and was possibly taking things a bit too seriously she said to me: “Once you stop being a girl you’re stuck being a woman forever! I am an 86 year old girl and proud of it!” The message behind her words has echoed in my mind ever since. I interpret it as a reminder to stay connected with a sense of play, a sense of fun, and to not take things too seriously.
What is your favorite thing about your job? Without a doubt the students are my favorite thing about my job. Our students are fantastic, smart and vibrant. They make my job a joy.
What about your field or position do you think would surprise people the most? This position allows me to learn alongside the students. I seek to provide the students exposure to a range of experiences and in doing so, I get to learn a few things along the way. With field trips to places ranging from Facebook to the Oakland Crime Lab and industry events like the Women In STEM Conference and TechCrunch, I always return to campus having seen and learned something new.
What is the most interesting or surprising thing about you? Dragon Pride runs strong in my family! My freshman daughter is the 15th Dragon on my family tree!
If you could rescue only one thing from your burning office, what would it be? I have some of my children’s early artwork on my walls. Neither of them are prolific artists so their works are rare and hard to come by!
Bonus Questions
What is your favorite kind of music/what are your favorite bands? I grew up in a musical household so I can appreciate most kinds of music. 80s music holds a special place in my heart since it was the soundtrack of my youth – I think I still know all the words to the Beastie Boys Licensed to Ill and Run-DMC’s Raising Hell albums. And don’t get me started on Purple Rain or The GoGos…
What is your favorite sports team or who is your favorite individual athlete? I love my Ducks!