Take full advantage of everything here at Fairfield, whether it’s riding the Stag or picking up a Women’s Studies minor.
That was the advice from four female alumnae, all with Women’s Studies minors, who reflected upon their positive Fairfield experience last night at the lecture “Women at Work.” They advised current Fairfield students to cherish the moments here and to have fun while it lasts.
The women, Julia Petitfrere ‘95, Winnifred Paul ‘03, Amy Mayrhofer ‘06, and Kristen McCarney ’07, told short vignettes of their lives after Fairfield. They spoke of the surprises they have found in the workforce, such as not getting the perfect job right out of college and how the Women’s Studies minor has unexpectedly helped them since graduation.
For Paul, her positions in Residence Life at Johnson and Wales University, dealing with all-female floors and roommate conflicts, has put the minor to work. For McCarney, the minor has advanced her in the interviewing process, guiding her with more confidence as a female.
While taking more questions from Professor Colleen Arendt of communications and students, the issue of feminism arose.
Petitfrere, a professor of writing, commented on the word and its negative connation held by her students, saying its comparable to the phrase “oh shit!” when spoken about.
As for Paul, she believes it is the new “f-word.”
McCarney ’07 graduated with a psychology degree, and is now working for a human resources company. Mayrhofer ’06, majored in English and now works as the technical editor for Financial Accounting Standards Board in Stamford, CT.
Paul ’03, graduated as a double major in English and history and is now the Complex Coordinator for the Downcity Campus at Johnson and Wales University. Petitfrere ’95, majored in English and is now a teacher of English writing at a community college.
Corey Novak ‘13, enjoyed the discussion board, but feels “a bit more anxious” about graduating and work now. She also said she will take their advice and begin to cherish more of the student and faculty relationships here at Fairfield.
Dr. Arendt, Assistant Professor of Communication, commented “I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation.” She was pleased with how they spoke of how busy and chaotic the workplace can be, as well as strategies of dealing with it.
Furthermore the addressing of the topic of “how to move up” in one’s company, also allowed for great discussion.
The women offered advice to graduating seniors on interviewing, searching for the right job, and what to expect in the work place. Paul advised looking at what is up and coming in your area and where you can see yourself working.
McCarney said to ask realistic questions in an interview. Mayrhofer spoke with great importance. “Know your resume” when it comes to making a good impression in the interview.
As females, they also addressed the issue of competing women in the work place. Mayrhofer mentioned there should not be competition and “we need to bolster each other up.”
McCarney responded with the need to prove oneself as a female. This happens through your listening and willingness and whatever that may be that “pushes you” to be your best, she said.
Leave a Reply