How has your University at Albany degree helped prepare you for your career and in life?
My experience at the University at Albany was invaluable in that it trained me to think analytically and read critically. My professors taught me how to turn a simple sentence inside out to determine if the writer had any hidden agenda or point of view that might not be clear on the surface.
In particular, my political science education continues to have a direct and practical bearing on the work I do every day in journalism. From learning about MAD (mutual assured destruction) theory to understanding statistics for the purposes of interpreting polling result, my time at Albany continues to pay dividends.
What do you remember most about your days here at University at Albany ?
I have a lot of wonderful memories from Albany. Both the school and the city were great places to spend four years. I loved the campus, which at the time seemed so space-age. And I remember the cold; my wet hair turning to ice when walking back to the dorms from the pool.
And, who can forget the tunnels... a student mole's only escape from the harsh winter environment when scooting from class to class. I remember finally feeling cool and in the know when I finally mastered the tunnel system.
I also have vivid memories of my internship at what was then the NBC affiliate in Menands. I remember being on the desk when John Belushi died. There was an incredible camaraderie among the news-staff up there that even included the interns.
Of course there are also the friendships. Those relationships I made at the University at Albany are life-long ones and I am reminded of that, every day.
Do you have any advice that you would like to share with our current students?
Yes, pay attention. Seize every opportunity and be open to learning how to think. It may seem an odd thing to say but when you are in college... you don't only learn facts and stats, you can learn how to think incisively and independently.
I would also urge every student to take an internship. The experience is priceless in that it helps you figure out if you're really interested in and cut out for a field you think you might want to pursue. It also gives you real-world experience to add to your resume.
What would you say to prospective students thinking about attending UAlbany?
You can't go wrong attending Albany. You will get a top-notch education from a distinguished university without having student loans haunt you for the rest of your lives. In addition, the city of Albany has a lot to offer, but it's also small and manageable so it's not overwhelming.. The proximity to the legislative heart of New York State also makes Albany the perfect place for anyone interested in a career in politics, banking, and policy making.
