1. What is one thing you miss about university?
I cannot say just one thing… Bomber, wearing sweatpants almost every day, and cramming late into the night with my classmates (I know, crazy to miss that, but something to be said about the camaraderie and supporting each other!)
2. What did you decide to do after graduation? How is your Economics degree applicable to your field of work?
Shortly after graduation, I started my career at BlackBerry (at the time, Research In Motion) and worked there for 7 years full time as a Regional Sales rep and later a Senior Marketing Manager. Currently, I am a Development Manager at St. Mary’s General Hospital where I am responsible for cultivation and solicitation of major gifts ($25,000 +) for St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation.
My Economics degree was applicable in that it gave me the business credentials required for the roles, but also a solid understanding of incentives and human behavior, pricing models, cause and effect, and an overall good foundation for working with numbers.
3. If you were to do one thing differently during your undergrad, what would it be? Why?
This is a tough question! I made so many mistakes early on during undergrad, both personal and as a student, but I honestly think those mistakes are what landed me where I am today. I really found my place in third and fourth year. I had a good group of classmates that supported each other and I learned to ask more questions and take advantage of office hours. I felt engaged and felt like I was a part of something. I wish I had gotten more involved earlier. And of course, I wish I had worked harder to get better grades.