Explore Careers with Middlebury Alumni: Biology Field Guide Opens New Doors for Students

If you’re still exploring your academic path, wondering how your major might shape your career, or eager to learn from Middlebury alumni, the upcoming Biology Field Guide is your perfect opportunity. Presented by the Center for Careers and Internships (CCI) and co-sponsored by the Biology Department, this event series brings alumni back to campus to share their professional journeys and inspire students to think critically about where their liberal arts education can take them.
Why Attend the Biology Field Guide?
The Field Guide is designed to help students, especially those who are undecided or exploring their options, connect their academic work with real-world careers. It’s not just for biology majors—students from all disciplines are encouraged to attend, making it an opportunity to gain clarity, and direction for what’s next.
From a panel to networking dinners to one-on-one career chats, the Field Guide offers a unique chance to engage with alumni who have turned their Middlebury education into diverse and impactful careers. Whether you’re looking to explore your options, expand your network, or simply get a better sense of what’s possible after Middlebury, this event has something for you.
Event Highlights
Thursday, February 20, 2025
Career Panel
4:45–6:15 p.m. | McCardell Bicentennial Hall, Room 216
Hear from alumni as they share their stories and answer your questions about navigating the journey from campus to career.
Networking Dinner & Dessert Reception
6:30–8:00 p.m. | Ross 011
After the panel, join us for dinner and dessert to connect with alumni in a relaxed setting. Ask questions, seek advice, and start building your network while enjoying a sweet treat!
Friday, February 21, 2025
One-on-One Career Chats
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Kitchel House (CCI)
Get personalized career advice in a private, 20-minute chat with one of our featured alumni.
Meet the Alumni
The Biology Field Guide features a great lineup of alumni who have translated their Middlebury degrees into fascinating careers. Highlights include:
- Leif Castren ’14, Program Associate at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, blending ecology, conservation, and education with policy and management.
- Jennie Harrington ’01, Executive Vice President at MRAG Americas, Inc., leading initiatives in sustainable seafood and global supply chains.
- Sarafina Midzik ’11, General Counsel and Chief of Staff at Heyday Health, reshaping healthcare for older adults through innovative practices.
- Myles Stokowski ’21.5, Data Engineer at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, advancing environmental science with cutting-edge data modeling.
- Grace Zhang ’18, PhD student at the University of Michigan, researching plant evolutionary ecology and tackling agricultural challenges.
How to Participate
All students are welcome to attend, and we especially encourage undecided students to take advantage of this opportunity. Reserve your spot for the panel, dinner, or career chats via Handshake—spaces fill quickly, so don’t wait!
For more information, visit go/FieldGuide and start exploring the endless possibilities of a liberal arts education.