I'm Graduating. What's Next?

During my years in college, while exploring the question 'Who do I want to be?' I've discovered something constant in all my reflections. I've always felt a deep connection to positive impact; I feel strongly compelled to make a difference. Several months ago, I purposefully changed my career trajectory towards a new path. I took a leap of faith to find a career that would allow me make a positive impact in my community. I know there are many people looking to make what they consider to be a drastic shift in their path or major of study, so this story is how I was able to make the change and the challenges I overcame.

In May, I took what the professional world would consider a 'step backward' but what I would consider a soul-fueling step forward towards the best version of me. I accepted my current position as a Haile Fellow and Research Assistant at Northern Kentucky University . As I have taken to saying, this position has been the defining factor of my college experience. It has been difficult in all the ways I was looking for. I've been pushed outside my comfort zone to develop skillsets, both professional and personal. I did things I had never done before, such as write a research paper on housing and presenting my paper at an ECONOMIC conference. I built friendships in unlikely places with my colleagues. I felt my old dreams of meaningful impact and future degrees wake up and stretch their legs, ready to unapologetically take up space inside my mind again. I've mentored and been mentored by my peers, spending many 'after hours' with them and Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani , exploring tough questions and figuring out life. This position has been so much more than a job, and the growth I've experienced over the past months more than justifies my initial decision to change my career trajectory.

With increasing sadness and enthusiasm, I am haltingly aware that this position is coming to an end. In less than a month, I will no longer hold the title of Research Assistant. (But I will be a Haile Fellow forever!) On December 16th, I will graduate with two undergraduate degrees in accounting and business information systems, and close a door on an identity that has propped up my personality for more than half my life. While I will always consider myself a lifelong learner and student, the instrument through which I channel that identity is changing. I am starting something brand new! This new chapter is an opportunity for me to make decisions in support of the person I want to be, the person I am striving to become.

I have considered this throughout my job search over the past several months. As I did, I strategically applied to organizations that make clear impact. This is a significant change for me, as the standard approach for an accounting major usually involves pursuing a position at a top four firm. This time, I was searching for a role that was closer to the people and directly impacted the city I live in.

After several interviews, I began to gravitate towards one company more than others. This pull was largely influenced by Rebecca Callen, CPA , and the kindness and support she offered throughout the interview process, as well as the company's background in economic development. Over the summer, I met with and learned more about the work being done at REDI Cincinnati and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce . The impact these two companies have on the economic development of the Cincinnati MSA is undeniably positive. Learning more about these organizations strengthened my appreciation for this area and helped me build a connection to the place I've called home for four years. And in January, I am excited to strengthen this connection by starting my new role as a Staff Accountant with 3CDC (Cincinnati Center City Development Corp.).

I'm excited for my new adventure!