Sandra graduated in 2011 with concentrations in Europe and Women & Gender. She is employed as a Specialist at Accenture and resides in West Conshohocken. She can be contacted by email.
What are some exciting things happening in your life?
I just bought a house! I will be moving in a week.
Favorite or recommended history books?
Leila Ahmed’s Women and Gender in Islam. For my final class, I also had the opportunity to read Emily Greene Balch’s diaries – primary source. Working so closely with that material reminded me why I like history.
Why did you seek an MA in History?
I had just completed my history undergrad at Villanova and I knew there was so much more I could learn.
Before attending Villanova, what did you have in mind, career-wise, after completing the program? Did you pursue this? If not, what changed your mind?
I had no idea before. And to be honest, I know (and like) what I am doing now, but every day brings something new. I think it’s important to keep doors open.
Give us a brief description of your job.
I assist drug companies in maintaining their drug applications. We help them ensure they meet the regulatory guidances in pursuing drug approval.
How did you get involved with this job/career?
With grad school ending, I realized I needed to determine if I wanted to continue my education or enter the workforce. I decided to try the 9-5 world and began the job search. I began my career with an excellent company, Octagon. Accenture acquired Octagon in September 2012.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I appreciate that my work is difficult and challenging every day. There is always a new problem or new guidance; it’s an industry that is constantly developing. I also enjoy working with my colleagues – they are a dedicated group of people who work well together. A bonus: my job also presents me with travel opportunities. We have offices all over the globe.
How have the knowledge and skills you developed as a VU grad student helped you in your current career?
My written and communication skills allowed me to prove myself as an individual who could be trusted to communicate effectively with clients. This, combined with my ability to think quickly on my feet, gave me opportunities to advance quickly in my company.
Do you have any additional background, training, or experience that has aided you in your career (examples: another degree or certificate, technical skills, internship or job experience, etc.)?
This may sound a little mundane, but I contribute my patience and ability to stay calm to babysitting. While in undergrad and grad school, I worked for an amazing family with four very active children – they were creative and funny, but also challenging. I think it’s a reminder that you can learn from every opportunity.
What would you tell current students who are nervous about job prospects with an MA in History?
I would tell them that every company needs intelligent, hard-working people who are willing to learn. I’d recommend stressing your written and verbal communication skills, as well as research abilities and critical thinking skills. It’s your ability to apply that skill set to the task at hand that makes you a valuable asset.
Any other wisdom you’d like to pass on?
Develop your own definition of what ‘success’ means – using someone else’s definition is a waste of time.
No comments:
Post a Comment