Major: English
Language School: French
What is your current position?
I am the communications director at the Open Space Institute, a non profit land conservation organization based in New York City.
How did you get your current job?
Word of mouth.
What do you like about your position?
I like the people i work with because they share an interest in the outdoors and care about environmental issues. I also love writing and working with the media.
What do your dislike about your current position?
Not enough hours in the day.
What kind of people do well in your career field?
People who love the outdoors and enjoy writing.
What activities where you involved in while at Middlebury?
Skiing, running, rugby, swimming.
Did any of your summer jobs or internships influence your thinking about careers after college?
Sure--they helped me define what i DIDN'T want to do.
What advice would you give to students interested in working in your field?
Do what you're passionate about. Find a topic that you want to study and explore it, ask questions, see how you can make a difference and influence others who aren't as knowledgeable or motivated. Remember that you spend the bulk of your time at the office so you had better enjoy it.
How can students best prepare themselves while still in college?
Learn to read and write. Talk to people about their careers. Don't be shy about asking for advice. Friends, family, fellow alums for the most part love to dispense advice and help people who are starting out in their careers.
What would you do differently?
I would have been bolder about asking for help.
What are your future plans?
NONE. My plan is to stay interested and engaged and keep learning.