Tell us a little bit about your career at Wilmington University. (What does your job entail? How did you get started in the field?)

During my day job, I work as an Administrative Assistant for the College of Arts and Sciences. I work closely with the Dean of the College as well as various Program Chairs to ensure they have the tools they need to lead students to success. I also teach as an Adjunct Instructor in both the face-to-face and online learning environments. I would say I’ve always been passionate about higher education. Even during my undergraduate years, I enjoyed mentoring other students. So as my career progressed and the opportunity came up to teach, I knew this perfectly aligned with my goals!

What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?

Definitely working with students! It’s rewarding to have an impact on a student’s educational journey and to watch them achieve a personal goal. Whether it’s offering a word of encouragement or connecting them to the right point of contact to finish their degree — I value being able to help them along the way. This past January, I had the opportunity to sit as an adjunct faculty member at our most recent Commencement. It was so rewarding to see students who I taught and interacted with walk across the stage and receive their diploma. I too, remember what it felt like working towards that goal — and any impact I can have on their journey makes it worthwhile.

If you could go back and share some wisdom or guidance with your younger self, what would that be?

Being only 25 at the time that I am writing this, believe it or not, there is a piece of advice I would give my younger self (and continue to remind myself of today!) It is to never underestimate your worth based on age or level of experience. Some of the greatest professional opportunities I have had, I second-guessed myself prior to taking them on. I thought, “They probably want someone with more experience for this… or I wonder if they would take me seriously?” The truth lies in your ability to recognize that at any level of age or experience you add a unique value to the table. Do not hesitate to recognize the right opportunities when they come and go for it!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

When I consider my vision for growth at Wilmington University, it begins with my passion for teaching and working with students. My goal is to continue to gain experience teaching in both the online and face-to-face environments, specifically related to communication and business topics. In the long term, I plan to pursue an Ed.D in Higher Education Leadership within 5-7 years. A doctoral degree will prepare me with research-based experience to apply to the higher education sector. Achieving this degree will also prepare me for a role as a Program Chair and full-time faculty member of a communication or business/marketing related program.

What piece of advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

The biggest piece of advice I would offer is to always value lifelong learning. As a professional in higher education, it’s important to recognize how valuable learning is in every aspect of our lives. No matter your age or career level – there is always an opportunity to learn something new and I take pride in sharing that I continue to be a lifelong-learner.

Give a shout out to the woman or women who inspire you the most.

I’m extremely fortunate to be surrounded by a number of inspiring “boss” ladies. In my workplace, I’m lucky enough to be mentored by a great supervisor who continues to challenge me to grow and seek opportunities outside of my comfort zone. I’m also fortunate to work for a company with fantastic female leadership everywhere, so this is truly inspiring.

Jane Clark, Co-Founder of BrandSwan