Posted April 13, 2022 in Alumni Profile
Lawrence School, 2010
B.S. Muskingum University, 2014
Since graduating from Lawrence, what have you been up to?
I double-majored in computer science and digital media design at Muskingum University, and I cherished my time there. One of the highlights of my college years was my internship at the NASA Glenn Research Center. I spent my time in the Space Communications and Navigation program office, where I helped develop the user interface for a loading analysis tool. I worked with NASA employees and saw all the facilities firsthand, like the testing rooms for aerodynamics, propulsion, and supersonics, and it was incredible.
After completing my degree, I initially pursued a career in software development, but I realized I was more interested in working with data. I’ve always been very detail-oriented, and I have a knack for spotting differences in data, which is what I now do as a data analyst for KeyBank.
What’s a typical workday like?
Every day at Key is a little different. I analyze data from across the company, looking at the information, querying it with specific programming, and seeing the impact it has. Since the pandemic began, I’ve been working from home in Chagrin Falls, which has been great, especially when I’m dealing with so many details. I’ve found I really thrive in my home office, and I’m able to focus and be very efficient.
How did Lawrence prepare you for college and your career?
Because of the support I received at Lawrence, I’m more aware of when I need support in my adult life. While looking at colleges, I discovered that Muskingum offered something called the PLUS Program, which provides academic support for students with learning differences. I knew I would benefit from that—having experienced a similar framework at Lawrence.
The life lessons I learned at Lawrence have also helped me professionally. Before joining KeyBank, I was doing well in my software career, but I knew it wasn’t something I’d enjoy long term. Drawing on the perseverance my teachers instilled in me back in high school, I forged a new path toward a rewarding career that’s more interesting to me.
What piece of advice would you share with Lawrence students?
Find a teacher or a mentor you’re comfortable talking to. There’ll come a time when you need extra help, whether in the classroom or with something else, and having someone to listen can make a huge difference.
What is your favorite memory from Lawrence?
I ran cross country and went up against some incredible athletes. I wasn’t the fastest, but I did finish third in one of the 5Ks I ran—that’s something I’m still very proud of.
Exercise helps me focus, but I don’t run much anymore. Although, I do love to hike. Getting outside and exploring nature is one of my favorite things to do.
What are some of your favorite hiking locations?
I’ve hiked Mount Rainier a few times, and each trip is amazing. Yosemite is also one of my favorites. I’ve actually hiked several national parks, including Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Rocky Mountain, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
My dad, sister, and I are heading back to Colorado this summer. We haven’t been able to travel in some time, so it will be fun. I’m excited to go back to the Rockies and hike the biggest mountain I can find.
What’s the most memorable thing that’s happened to you on these outdoor adventures?
Once, while on a tour in Glacier National Park, I had an awe-inspiring encounter. I was standing in a field of berries with approximately 20 other people, when suddenly a mother bear and her cub approached. We all had to get to the side and we all just stared as they walked by. I’d never been so close to such a powerful animal before.
Do you have any must-hike mountains you’d like to get to?
The White Mountains in New Hampshire are near the top of my list. I’d also like to go back to Maine so I can do Mount Katahdin again, which is at one end of the Appalachian Trail. The last time I hiked it, it was a crummy day and I couldn’t see much. So I’d love to go back and discover what I missed.
How do you spend your free time?
I love spending time outdoors, but I also like listening to music, playing video games, and watching sports. I was born and raised in the area, so I’m a big Cleveland sports fan. My video game tendencies shift depending on what I’m interested in at the time. I’ve been playing a lot of Zelda: Skyward Sword recently. It’s the first Zelda game I’ve ever played, but it’s so much fun.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
There’s certainly room for growth in my career and workplace, so I’d like to learn some new analytical techniques, gain more experience, and progress toward a senior role.