Major: Psychology and Sociology
Why did you choose Psychology and Sociology as your majors?
I initially started at Rutgers solely pursuing a major in Psychology, because I wanted to become a counselor and enjoyed learning about how individuals “operate.” After taking “Introduction to Sociology” fall semester of my sophomore year, I fell in love with Sociology, too, and decided to pursue it as my second major! I found Psychology and Sociology to be complementary majors, because they allowed me to learn about people and society, both individually and holistically.
What did you like most about it?
I really enjoyed all of my classes! The content of my classes was so diverse, yet interrelated. I appreciated each discipline’s ability to disseminate the information in a learning environment, and to continue to contribute and advance both outside and inside of the classroom through research, policy, and practice.
What is your current position, what do you, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I currently work at the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), so my experience really has come full circle! I am a Senior Administrative Assistant, Manager, and general Academic Advisor for the SAS Office of Advising and Academic Services. My position gives me many, diverse roles: managing our office, staff, and student needs; spearheading planning large events like the SAS Major and Minor Fair; working with other offices across the University; advising students daily and discussing their academic and professional goals; and participating in welcoming our new students at APA and STAR Days as well as celebrating our graduating students at University Commencement and the SAS Convocation ceremonies. I am very appreciative that my position has allowed me to continue being part of the SAS family. I work with a group of phenomenal colleagues and meet with students with whom I can identify.
My experience as a Rutgers alum has truly allowed me to connect with students on a special level and has helped facilitate our work together.
What was your first job after Rutgers and how did you get it?
After graduating from SAS, I pursued my Master’s degree at the Rutgers School of Social Work. As part of my graduate program, I became an intern with the SAS Office of Academic Services. My undergraduate experiences on campus as an Apartment Assistant with Rutgers Residence Life, which provided me with leadership skills in the various components of on-campus needs, such as community development, facilitating relationships among residents, and programming, helped me get the internship. My internship introduced me to the advising needs of students, and, with the commitment of the phenomenal staff with whom I am fortunate enough to continue working with, I was trained as an Advisor and learned more about what SAS does for its student and the University population.
How did you move from that first job to your current position?
The MSW program requires two years of an internship, and I was fortunate enough to have my second-year internship continue with the SAS Office of Academic Services, this time, as part of the Transfer Center. After two years of interning, and after graduation, I continued my work with SAS because I wanted to continue utilizing and refining the skills and practices I learned. A year and a half later in 2015, when a position and opportunity to return to the SAS Office of Academic Services became available, I sought the blessing of my former supervisor, applied, was interviewed, and was offered the position! Once again, a remarkable part of my Rutgers experience has come full circle!
Looking back, what classes or experiences at Rutgers would you point to as contributing to your successes?
My involvement with Residence Life as an Apartment Assistant helped shape my leadership skills and comfort with programming, outreach, and making connections with others. Rutgers is a large environment, and it can sometimes be intimidating to navigate or “find your place.” Within Residence Life, I was able to experience so much and be very involved on campus, and this provided me with the professional development I needed outside of the classroom to be successful post-grad. Had it not been for my involvement on campus, I would not have landed my internship and would not be where I am today.
What advice do you have for our current Arts and Sciences students?
Be open, explore, and ask for help! Remember that every person here, staff and student alike, have experienced the initial transition period to Rutgers and needed time to establish themselves in where they are. Take advantage of the knowledge of others by seeking advice, guidance, and opportunities to grow outside of the classroom and make the most of your RU experience!
