Informational Interview with Kylie Zajdel: Development Operations Coordinator at Seattle Symphony

I had the opportunity to conduct an informational interview with Lawrence alumna Kylie Zajdel. Zajdel currently resides in Seattle, Washington, where she works in Development at the Seattle Symphony. In this reflection, I will touch on some of the main talking points from our interview, including Zajdel’s career path, network building strategies, and advice for Lawrentians interested in pursuing Arts Administration.

No “Typical” Career Path

During her time at Lawrence, Zajdel majored in music theory, flute performance, and French and francophone studies. Although she knew early on that stage fright would prevent her from pursuing a career in performance, she discovered a passion for being involved in music offstage. In the summer of 2021, Zajdel interned as the Student Operations Intern at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee. This experience introduced her to the world of Arts Administration and solidified her desire to stay connected to the arts without performing.

Currently, Zajdel works at the Seattle Symphony as the Development Operations Coordinator, focusing on the operational and developmental tasks that enhance the donor experience. Just before our meeting, she discussed career paths in Arts Administration with her boss, only to conclude that there isn’t a typical path in this field. She emphasized that everyone finds their own way into Arts Administration, and no two paths look the same. According to Zajdel, it’s all about discovering what interests you and gaining first-hand experience.

Networking is Really, Really Hard…

I asked Zajdel how she built a network within her field, to which she replied that she is currently in the process of networking within the Seattle-based arts community. She prefaced her answer by saying, “Networking is really, really hard…”. Despite this candid admission, she emphasized the importance of consistently putting yourself out there and taking risks when interacting with others in Arts Administration. Zajdel advised starting with connections that may seem the most outlandish, as you never know the extent of someone else’s network

Final Advice: Don’t Give Up!

Lastly, I asked Zajdel if she had any advice for students interested in pursuing Arts Administration. She matter-of-factly responded, “Just don’t give up.” Zajdel sent in roughly 50 applications within a year before acquiring her current position. She mused that, although the rejections hurt, not every job you apply for and want is the right job for you. Zajdel emphasized, “No matter how many rejections you get… you just have to keep going and waiting for the right job and the right person to relate to you [when reading your application materials].”

She also stressed the importance of researching not just the organization but also the individuals you’re applying to. Zajdel stated, “If you can find one thing to connect with on, chances are they’re going to be like ‘that really reminds me of me’ and you are going to get an interview.” She highlighted that the best way to achieve this connection is through your cover letter, urging students who are about to enter the workforce to “make yourself a person, not just a piece of paper.”

Careers in Art & Design

The field of arts and design is vast and full of exciting opportunities across various industries. Let’s dive into the different career paths you can pursue, ranging from higher education positions to roles in non-profits, for-profits, entertainment, and more.

Careers in Higher Education

  1. Art Professor:
    • What They Do: Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in various art disciplines, develop curriculum, grade assignments, provide student feedback, mentor students, conduct scholarly research in art history or practice, exhibit personal artwork, and contribute to departmental and college committees.
  2. Museum Curator:
    • What They Do: Manage and care for art collections, plan and organize exhibitions, conduct research on pieces in the collection, write labels and catalog entries, oversee educational programs and tours, collaborate with other curators and institutions, and acquire new pieces for the collection.

Careers in Nonprofit Organizations

  1. Art Therapist:
    • What They Do: Conduct individual and group therapy sessions using art as a medium, assess clients’ needs and progress, develop treatment plans, maintain client records, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, and present findings and techniques at conferences and workshops.
  2. Community Arts Organizer:
    • What They Do: Develop and implement arts programs that engage local communities, organize public art projects, secure funding through grants and sponsorships, coordinate volunteers and staff, promote events through various media channels, and evaluate the impact of programs on the community.

Careers in For-Profit Organizations

  1. Graphic Designer:
    • What They Do: Create visual content for branding, advertising, and marketing campaigns, design logos, websites, and promotional materials, work with clients to understand their needs and vision, use software like Adobe Creative Suite, present design concepts and revisions, and collaborate with other creatives such as copywriters and web developers.
  2. Interior Designer:
    • What They Do: Plan and design interior spaces for residential and commercial properties, meet with clients to discuss needs and budget, create design concepts and floor plans, select furniture, lighting, and materials, oversee the implementation of design plans, and ensure projects comply with building codes and regulations.

Careers in Entertainment

  1. Animator:
    • What They Do: Create animations and visual effects for films, TV shows, video games, and commercials, develop storyboards, design characters and backgrounds, use software like Maya or After Effects, collaborate with directors and other animators, and meet production deadlines.
  2. Set Designer:
    • What They Do: Design and build sets for theater productions, films, and TV shows, create scale models and drawings, collaborate with directors and production teams, select materials and props, oversee the construction and installation of sets, and ensure sets meet aesthetic and functional requirements.

Other Relevant Careers

  1. Art Director:
    • What They Do: Oversee the visual style and creative direction of publications, advertising campaigns, and film productions, lead a team of designers, photographers, and illustrators, develop concepts and strategies, present ideas to clients or executives, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
  2. Fashion Designer:
    • What They Do: Design clothing, accessories, and footwear, create sketches and prototypes, select fabrics and materials, oversee production processes, present collections at fashion shows, and collaborate with other designers and marketers to promote and sell designs.
  3. Art Conservator:
    • What They Do: Preserve and restore artworks, conduct scientific analyses to determine the best preservation methods, document the condition and treatment of artworks, use specialized tools and materials to repair and maintain art, collaborate with museum curators and other professionals, and educate the public about art conservation.

Final Thoughts

The world of arts and design is brimming with opportunities that cater to a wide range of interests and skills. Whether you’re drawn to teaching, community engagement, commercial design, or the entertainment industry, there’s a career path that can turn your passion for art into a fulfilling profession. So, explore these options, follow your creative instincts, and start crafting your dream career!

Resources for Aspiring Teachers: WECAN Overview

Are you dreaming of shaping young minds and making a difference in the world of education? If so, you might want to check out the Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN). This website is a goldmine for aspiring teachers, offering a plethora of resources to help you kickstart your career. Let’s dive into what WECAN has to offer and how you can make the most of it.

What is WECAN?

WECAN is an online platform that connects school districts in Wisconsin with aspiring teachers and other education professionals. It was launched in 2001 to streamline the hiring process and make it easier for educators to find job opportunities across the state. Today, WECAN serves over 500 schools annually, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to enter the teaching profession.

Resources Available on WECAN

  1. Job Listings:
    • WECAN provides a comprehensive list of job openings in K-12 schools across Wisconsin. You can search for positions by keyword, location, and job type, making it easy to find opportunities that match your interests and qualifications.
  2. Application Process:
    • The website offers an online employment application system. You can create an account, upload your resume, and apply for multiple positions with just a few clicks. This centralized system simplifies the application process and ensures that your information is easily accessible to potential employers.
  3. Professional Development:
    • WECAN also provides resources for professional growth, including workshops, training sessions, and networking events. These opportunities allow you to enhance your skills, stay updated with the latest educational trends, and connect with other professionals in the field.
  4. Support Services:
    • The website offers guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and career counseling. These resources are invaluable for new teachers who are navigating the job market for the first time.

Why WECAN is Helpful for Aspiring Teachers

  1. Streamlined Job Search:
    • WECAN simplifies the job search process by providing a centralized platform for finding and applying for teaching positions. This saves you time and effort compared to searching for jobs individually on various school district websites.
  2. Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities:
    • With over 500 schools participating, WECAN offers a diverse array of job opportunities across Wisconsin. Whether you’re interested in teaching in urban or rural areas, elementary or high school education, WECAN has something for everyone.
  3. Professional Networking:
    • The platform allows you to connect with other educators, attend professional development events, and build a network of contacts in the education field. Networking is crucial for career advancement and can open doors to new opportunities.

How to Utilize WECAN Effectively

  1. Create a Profile:
    • Start by creating a detailed profile on WECAN. Include your resume, a professional photo, and a brief bio highlighting your teaching philosophy and experience.
  2. Set Up Job Alerts:
    • Use the job alert feature to receive notifications about new job postings that match your criteria. This ensures that you never miss out on potential opportunities.
  3. Apply for Multiple Positions:
    • Don’t limit yourself to just one or two applications. Apply for multiple positions to increase your chances of landing a job. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
  4. Participate in Professional Development:
    • Take advantage of the professional development resources offered by WECAN. Attend workshops, webinars, and networking events to enhance your skills and expand your professional network.
  5. Stay Organized:
    • Keep track of the positions you’ve applied for, follow-up dates, and any communication with potential employers. Staying organized will help you manage your job search more effectively.

Final Thoughts

The Wisconsin Education Career Access Network is an invaluable tool for aspiring teachers. By providing a streamlined job search process, access to a wide range of opportunities, and professional development resources, WECAN helps you take the first steps toward a rewarding career in education. So, dive in, explore the resources, and start your journey to becoming an inspiring educator!

Online Sources:

  1. Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN)
  2. WECAN Job Postings
  3. Professional Development Resources

Getting Involved in Social Impact in College

Are you passionate about making a difference and leaving a positive mark on the world? Then, diving into social impact activities at Lawrence might be just the thing for you! Let’s chat about what social impact is and how you can get involved in various causes, from gender rights to civil rights and beyond.

What is Social Impact?

Social impact refers to efforts aimed at improving societal well-being and driving positive change. It involves addressing pressing social issues and advocating for a more just and equitable world. Whether it’s through community-based projects or student-focused initiatives, social impact activities empower individuals to contribute to meaningful causes and make a difference in their communities.

Getting Involved on Campus

1. Join or Start a Student Organization in Support of:

  • Gender Rights: Advocate for gender equality, host discussions on women’s rights, and organize events for International Women’s Day.
  • LGBTQIA+ and Trans Rights: Support and empower LGBTQIA+ and trans students, organize Pride Week, and provide educational workshops on LGBTQIA+ issues.
  • Civil Rights: Promote civil rights education, organize marches and rallies, and collaborate with local civil rights organizations.
  • Environmental Justice and Sustainability: Focus on issues like climate change, pollution, and sustainability. Organize campus clean-ups, tree-planting events, and awareness campaigns.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Provide support and resources for mental health, host stress-relief activities, and collaborate with campus counseling services.
  • Racial Equity: Advocate for racial justice, host diversity and inclusion workshops, and support anti-racism initiatives on campus.
  • Disability Advocacy: Promote accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities, organize awareness events, and work with administration to improve campus facilities.
  • Human Rights: Focus on a broad range of human rights issues, such as refugee rights, freedom of speech, and international human rights violations. Host educational events and support global causes.
  • Economic Justice: Address issues related to economic inequality, such as affordable housing, living wages, and food security. Organize fundraisers and volunteer at local shelters and food banks.
  • Sexual Assault Awareness: Raise awareness about sexual assault and harassment, provide support for survivors, and work to create a safer campus environment through education and advocacy.

2. Participate in Community-Based Projects:

  • Volunteer at Local Shelters: Help out at women’s shelters, LGBTQIA+ safe houses, local food banks, or homeless shelters to support vulnerable populations.
  • Community Clean-Up Drives: Organize or join clean-up efforts in local parks and neighborhoods to promote environmental sustainability.
  • Tutoring and Mentoring Programs: Provide academic support and mentorship to underprivileged students in your community.

3. Engage in Activism and Advocacy:

  • Petitions and Campaigns: Start or support petitions addressing social justice issues, such as police reform or environmental protection.
  • Peaceful Protests and Rallies: Participate in or organize peaceful protests to raise awareness about important social issues.
  • Policy Advocacy: Work with local government officials or advocacy groups to influence policy changes that promote social justice.

4. Attend Workshops and Seminars:

  • Educational Workshops: Attend workshops on topics like intersectionality, implicit bias, and allyship to deepen your understanding of social justice issues.
  • Guest Speaker Events: Listen to guest speakers who are activists, scholars, and leaders in various social justice movements.
  • Skill-Building Seminars: Participate in seminars that teach skills like community organizing, public speaking, and effective advocacy.

5. Collaborate with Campus Departments:

  • Diversity and Inclusion Office: Partner with your college’s diversity office to develop programs and initiatives that promote inclusivity and equity on campus.
  • Service-Learning Courses: Enroll in courses that incorporate community service and social impact projects into the curriculum.
  • Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty on research projects that focus on social justice issues and contribute to scholarly work in the field.

Examples of Social Issues to Get Involved In

1. Gender Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Gender pay gap, reproductive rights, gender-based violence.
  • Activities: Host panel discussions, create awareness campaigns, support women’s rights organizations.

2. LGBTQIA+ and Trans Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Discrimination, mental health support, legal protections.
  • Activities: Organize Pride events, provide safe spaces on campus, advocate for inclusive policies.

3. Civil Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Racial discrimination, voting rights, criminal justice reform.
  • Activities: Hold voter registration drives, participate in civil rights marches, collaborate with civil rights organizations.

4. Environmental Justice:

  • Issues to Address: Climate change, pollution, sustainability.
  • Activities: Conduct environmental awareness campaigns, organize tree-planting events, advocate for green policies.

5. Mental Health Awareness:

  • Issues to Address: Stigma, access to mental health services, student well-being.
  • Activities: Create mental health support groups, host stress-relief events, partner with counseling services.

Final Thoughts

Getting involved in social impact activities on campus is a fantastic way to make a positive difference, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded peers. Whether you’re passionate about gender rights, LGBTQIA+ and trans rights, civil rights, or other social issues, there are countless ways to contribute and drive change.

Insights from Santosh Kutty: From Lawrence to Leadership at Deloitte

Santosh Kutty’s journey from being an international student at Lawrence University to a Partner at Deloitte exemplifies how a liberal arts education, strategic career moves, and adaptability can lead to remarkable professional success. Here are the key takeaways from his reflections on his journey.

As an international student, Santosh initially faced challenges adjusting to a new environment but soon thrived. Lawrence’s liberal arts education played a pivotal role in his development. By designing his own major that blended computer science, communication, and teamwork skills, he gained both technical expertise and the soft skills critical for professional growth. This unique combination of analytical thinking and interpersonal abilities has been instrumental throughout his career.

During Santosh’s time at Lawrence, computer science wasn’t a fully established major. Undeterred, he collaborated with professors to curate a personalized course load tailored to his long-term goals in technology. His initiative in designing a CS-centric curriculum reflects the

As Vice President of Lawrence International Club, Santosh developed leadership and networking skills that would prove invaluable in his career. This role taught him the importance of building connections and fostering inclusive communities—lessons he carried into his professional life.

Santosh’s path to Deloitte was shaped by his rich educational background and professional experiences. After completing a master’s in computer science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and an MBA from Northwestern University, he amassed a decade of experience before applying to Deloitte. A key moment in his journey was leveraging his Lawrence connections; a friend from his college days recommended him for a position at Deloitte, showcasing the enduring value of networking.

As a Partner and the US L&A/Group Insurance Technology Practice Leader at Deloitte, Santosh has spearheaded groundbreaking projects in insurance technology. His leadership highlights include:

  • Developing Deloitte’s LifeTech 3S Modernization Method to help insurance carriers drive growth and efficiency through agile technology investments.
  • Leading large-scale transformation projects for global clients, including implementing systems like PEGA, SAPIENS, and FINEOS across multiple countries.
  • Collaborating with diverse teams across geographies to deliver tailored solutions for complex challenges in the insurance and financial sectors.

Santosh’s passion for his role at Deloitte stems from its dynamic nature. No two projects are the same, and interacting with diverse clients keeps the work engaging and fulfilling. For Santosh, the constant evolution of challenges and opportunities makes every day exciting.

Santosh emphasized that finance and insurance companies value adaptability, communication, and networking skills in addition to technical expertise. For undergraduates, particularly international students, networking is crucial. Santosh advises actively attending events, building genuine relationships, and maintaining connections over time. These efforts can open doors to unexpected opportunities, as they did for him.

Reflections on the Journey from Lawrence to Data Analytics: Insights from an Interview

The professional journey of a Lawrence graduate; Raian Rith, highlights how a strong academic foundation, practical experience, and adaptability can pave the way for success in the field of data analytics. The interview offered valuable insights into the integration of academic learnings with real-world applications, the importance of personal initiatives, and tips for aspiring data professionals.

Academic Foundations: The Power of an Interdisciplinary Education

Majoring in Economics with minors in Mathematics and Data Science provided Raian Rith with a robust analytical toolkit. Economics honed his understanding of market dynamics, Mathematics strengthened quantitative problem-solving, and Data Science offered practical skills to extract actionable insights from data. This combination not only shaped his analytical mindset but also prepared him for a dynamic role as a Data Analyst at U.S. Venture Inc.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

Recognizing the nascent nature of Data Science as a field at Lawrence, the interviewee took proactive steps to enhance his skills. After completing foundational courses like Stat 205 and Stat 255, he explored personal projects, such as developing web apps and experimenting with OpenAI’s API. These projects not only deepened his technical expertise but also demonstrated their ability to create innovative, practical solutions—qualities that stand out in the job market.

The Role of Leadership and Initiative

Founding the Data Science Club at Lawrence was a pivotal experience. By creating a community for like-minded peers, organizing workshops, and hosting the university’s first Datathon, Raian gained leadership and organizational skills. This initiative fostered a culture of collaboration and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on the campus and shaping his professional approach.

From Campus to Career: Building the Bridge

The path to his internship at U.S. Venture was not without challenges. Networking through a summer research project under Professor David Gerard led to an introduction to key professionals, culminating in the internship opportunity. His advice to students? Build a portfolio, showcase projects, and apply widely—opportunities often arise from persistence and the ability to showcase your skills.

The Professional World: Beyond Classroom Learning

As a Data Analyst, Raian’s work at U.S. Venture required going beyond academic knowledge, pushing him to learn Python, machine learning algorithms, and tools like ArcGIS on the job. Real-world projects included developing machine learning APIs to reduce customer onboarding time and optimizing delivery routes through geospatial tools. These experiences underscored the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.

Key Skills for Aspiring Analysts

For students entering the analytics field, the interviewee highlighted the demand for technical skills like SQL, Python, and data visualization tools (Power BI or Tableau), alongside cloud platform proficiency. However, he emphasized that technical expertise alone is insufficient. The ability to communicate insights effectively and collaborate across teams is just as critical for driving business impact.

Final Advice: Adaptability and Communication

The most valuable lesson from Raian’s journey? The power of adaptability. Each project presented unique challenges, requiring the willingness to learn and pivot quickly. Equally important is the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights for diverse audiences—a skill that amplifies the impact of technical work.

This interview serves as a roadmap for students aspiring to enter data analytics, illustrating how a blend of academic learning, personal projects, leadership, and adaptability can shape a fulfilling and impactful career.