Q: What year did you graduate? What was your major?

A: I graduated as part of the Class of 2023 with a major in marketing. 

Q: What initially compelled you to join Bronco Exchange? 

A: My job search brought me to Bronco Exchange. Knowing how much it helped me land my first job, I can’t wait to offer advice to other Broncos through the platform and continue to connect with alumni.

Q: How has the Bronco network supported you on your professional journey?

A: I don’t even know where to begin! The Bronco network has been everything to me as I begin my career. Through alumni connections alone, I conducted more than 50 informational interviews. I gained amazing insight into different career options and learned how to get started on various career paths. Broncos from across the world and from all different stages of life have been more than happy to share their professional journeys with me. Without them, I definitely would not have gotten to where I am now!

Q: How do you think Bronco Exchange, Student & Alumni Connections can support other Broncos in their career journeys? 

A: There is so much to gain from Bronco Exchange. Aside from conducting informational interviews and getting advice from fellow Broncos, you can also use the tools to get recommendations. Broncos know the value of a Santa Clara education and trust that SCU has provided a strong foundation. When I was looking for my first position out of college, I was able to find a fellow alum at the company I was interviewing with, hop on a call with them, and ask them for a recommendation. Making connections is everything!

Q: As you think back on your time at SCU, what is a favorite memory or experience?

A: When campus first re-opened after COVID-19, I was about to start my junior year. I spent the weekend before classes started reconnecting with friends and meeting new people. I probably met as many people then as I did my freshman year. I will never forget how great it felt to be a part of the Bronco community again.

Q: As a new graduate, you just made the transition from student to professional. How do you think Santa Clara prepared you?

A: Santa Clara has never-ending resources for graduating students. From networking opportunities and workshops to classes that prepared us for financial independence, the University put a lot of work into helping us feel confident about our next steps. In addition, our alumni network provided robust opportunities for me to figure out what the best career path would be and how to achieve my goals.

Q: What faculty or staff member has had the greatest impact on you and why?

A: Alma McChesney. She’s part of the operations team for the Alumni Association, and she was my boss and mentor for two years. She empowered me to feel capable in professional settings and to feel confident as a leader. Beyond my professional development, Alma fostered a home away from home for me and the other student workers. I really loved having her and the Alumni House as collaborative, uplifting, and enthusiastic parts of my life.

Q: What class(es) from your time at SCU do you think will be most relevant or beneficial to your professional development?

A: The retail studies minor courses were the highlight of my undergraduate career. Not only does the program offer a one-of-a-kind education focusing on retail management, it also provides a really well-rounded business education that’s applicable to any industry. I’m so glad I added the minor!

The diversity and ethics course requirements were great additions to the core curriculum. They taught me how to step outside my usual way of thinking and gain a new perspective—a cornerstone of successful collaboration.

Q: Where do you hope to be professionally in 10-15 years?

A: I’d love to be leading the marketing department for a retailer—in the Bay Area of course!