Experiential Learning Opportunities
I've held various roles since graduating from Mount Union. I was an administrative secretary for the Office of Consumer Affairs, I was then promoted to community relations specialist for Summit County's Job and Family Services, I was requested to work as the personal bailiff for Judge David Hamilton, and recently I worked part -time as a paralegal for a law library. Since graduating from Mount Union, I worked in local government for 6 years before deciding to go back to school to pursue a master of applied politics. During that time, I worked as a community relations specialist where I managed a $75,000 national grant which allowed for critical funding for specific programs that were necessary for the citizens of Summit County. My favorite part of this job was attending various events in the community that allowed me the opportunity to network with various leaders in the area. Attending events, creating events and managing staff was something that I enjoyed the most about my job at that time.
Choosing Mount Union
I love Mount Union because I learned so much about myself and what I felt was my purpose. I entered college not knowing what I wanted to do. I had various meetings with professors trying to determine what it was that I should pursue while attending Mount Union. Having that support and building close relationships with my professors really helped me create a path for myself once I graduated. My favorite memory would have to be cheering on our football team during the STAGG Bowl and watching our boys bring home a win. I stay connected to Mount Union by reconnecting with previous professors the lifelong friends I've made during my time as a student. I still follow up with certain professors for references and help with life advice because they provided me with so much support during my time at Mount Union. I recently had the opportunity to work with a professor for a continuing legal education course which provided attorneys information pertaining to a recent book they published. I was fortunate to have this connection, and it really showed how close the Mount Union community is.
Career Goals
I am pursuing a master of applied politics at The University of Akron. I have studied campaign finance, government relations, political disagreement and the fundamentals of political strategy. This is the main goal I'd like to achieve -- graduate with my master's degree at the end of this year! During my time working for Summit County, I quickly realized how much I enjoy local politics, but I wanted the opportunity to do more. I want to work as a lobbyist or a political analyst once I graduate. I am happy to share that I will be working as an intern for the Greater Akron Chamber and the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance where I will track legislation, analyze policies and work closely with legislators to advocate for or against specific legislation. I hope that in a few short years, I will become a registered lobbyist for the state of Ohio.