Allison Grant '11
Head of Growth at Origin
Philosophy major with a Political Science minor
Head of Growth at Origin
“I took two classes that really inspired me to choose philosophy – Intro to Logic and Contemporary Moral Issues. I was very undecided about what I wanted to major in and I found philosophy provided a foundation of teaching me how to think, how to argue and how to collaborate.”
Tell us what you do.
I am the Head of Growth at Origin, the leading provider of physical therapy for maternity, menopause and sexual health, with deep expertise in the pelvic floor and full body. Origin’s unique model of care is clinically proven to have life changing results and has helped thousands build strength and avoid countless unnecessary surgeries. Prior to Origin, I spent my career as a go-to-market leader in healthcare and technology, including leadership roles at Solv & Uber. I am passionate about closing the gender gap increasing equity in healthcare and helping more women find leadership roles in tech.
What have you done since Middlebury?
I worked in politics for a few years after college and ultimately realized that I enjoyed the “start up” part of my political start up more than the politics side of things. I decided to apply to a bunch of jobs in SF while I was living in DC and got a job at Uber. That was a big turning point for my career. From there, I would say business school really helped to up-level me and provide that polish and analytical skill set that I hadn’t fully gotten as a philosophy major. Lastly, being a part of the senior leadership team at a company has helped me to understand business decisions and how to build and motivate a team.
How has your choice of majors influenced your life after graduation?
Philosophy provided a foundation of teaching me how to think, how to argue and how to collaborate.
When did you know which major you were going to choose?
I took two classes that really inspired me to choose philosophy – Intro to Logic and Contemporary Moral Issues. I was very undecided about what I wanted to major in and I found philosophy provided a foundation of teaching me how to think, how to argue and how to collaborate.
How did you decide what career path you wanted to pursue after graduating?
My mother jokes that your 20s are all about figuring out what you don’t want to do, I spent a lot of time in politics, at start ups and ultimately getting my MBA. After my MBA, I knew I wanted to work for a strong female leader which led me to my first role after Kellogg at Solv and ultimately to the women’s health space at Origin.
Finally, what advice or suggestions do you have for current students as they consider their post-Middlebury futures?
You have time, don’t stress. I graduated without a job and nannied for a summer. Spend time trying a lot of things and roles and places and talk to as many alums as you can to help you think through things.
Connect with Allison on Midd2Midd.
Learn more about the Philosophy department at Middlebury.