Sport: Dance
Major: Interior Design
Career: Interior Designer - Phase Zero Design Inc.
Hometown: Westfield, Mass.
Then & Now Feature: Kristin Halls '13 & Amanda Mersereau
What made you choose Endicott?
The internship program mostly. But the fact that it had a dance team and the location were important too!
How did the Endicott Experience contribute to your life today?
I actually got the job I have today because of a referral from another Endicott Interior Design major that had interned with them. The network and career services that Endicott provided were extremely beneficial throughout my job search process.
What is your favorite memory as a student-athlete at Endicott?
I was on the dance team during the first year that the team traveled to Disney. Even though we didn't make it into the finals, it was an awesome experience and it really brought us together as a team.
How has being an athlete at Endicott contributed to your career?
I really learned how to be a part of a team which really benefit me in my company which is divided into project teams. You're not always going to get along with everyone but you learn how to manage!
Where did you complete internships/clinicals while at Endicott and how did that affect your career goals?
I worked at Spec's Design Group in Springfield, Mass., and Winter Street Architects in Salem, Mass., and completed my semester internship at IA Interior Architects in Boston, Mass. I solidified a job almost immediately after graduation because my extensive work experience as well as a connection with a friend from Endicott.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?
My particular position within this company has allowed me to gain experience far past what we learned in school. I feed off of learning something new every day and problem solving in a team environment.
What advice would you give to current Endicott student-athletes for when they graduate?
Being a student-athlete is a hectic life, so I recommend taking time off after graduation to decompress if you can. Most of us feed off the constant chaos so it's healthy to force yourself to relax every once in a while!
What advice do you have for players looking at becoming Endicott student-athletes?
Balancing athletics and schooling is difficult and do it if you can! But always remember that college is to prepare you for your career and you have to do what you have to do to keep your priorities in check.
What members of the Endicott community had the greatest impact on you?
My dance coach and part-time therapist Nikki SaoPedro-Welch. She always knew how to help me balance dance and interior design somehow! That's not easy to do!
What do you miss most about Endicott?
The ocean and the people. I didn't appreciate it enough while I had it!