What was your degree in and why did you choose this route?

My undergraduate degree is a BA in History: Social Studies Education, and I will be completing my Master’s of Education in Library Media & Information Specialist this upcoming summer! I chose the route of education because more than anything, I wanted to make a difference in the lives of people through my work.

 What is your current job title and description?

 I am currently the Assistant Director of SAU+AmeriCorps VISTA. I help to manage around 20 VISTA workers on and off campus in the SAU and Magnolia community. I like to say that I help teach people how to work well in different fields, but mainly help provide the tools needed for my workers to succeed and thrive. I love my job very much, and I love seeing the difference our program makes in the SAU and Magnolia community.

Are there any transferable skills of knowledge from your degree that you have been able to apply in unexpected ways in your current role?

 Throughout my undergraduate years, I learned professionalism through engaging with my professors and putting myself out there to learn more through admitting what I did not know. Some of the most transferable skills that I learned from my education degree are the ones that I learned in my Educational Psychology course. Understanding that we are all different people with different experiences that have helped shape us into who we are, helped me in the classroom, and now helps me in my managerial role.

 Do you believe your degree has provided you with professional development skills, if so, how?

 I do believe that my degree has provided me with professional development skills needed in the workforce. Through getting an education I learned that what you want is achieved by hard work and effort. I learned to think critically, and now apply those skills to work efficiently towards my boss’ and workers’ needs. Most importantly I discovered my passions, interests, and what I prioritize as my “non-negotiables” in the workforce. Your degree opens doors for you to do whatever you want in your career, it doesn’t limit you to one job or area for the rest of your life.

 Lastly, if a student were to enter in this degree program, how would you advise them for career planning?

 I would tell them that they are never limited by their degree, but rather that their degree opens options for them to choose from. I remember meeting former SAU president Dr. Trey Berry for the first time in my undergrad, and his excitement and encouraging words of experience about all the things you can do with a History degree. Fast forward a few years, I reminisced on that conversation when he welcomed me to SAU staff. Soak up the wealth of knowledge that you are surrounded by at college, utilize the vast resources available, and discover what brings you