Marymount University’s College of Sciences and Humanities welcomed over 30 alumni back to campus on October 31 for its Pathways from Graduation Conference, which featured a day of panels, presentations and networking opportunities for Political Science and International Relations students.
Organized by Dr. Chad Rector, professor in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, the conference offered alumni the chance to return to Marymount and share insights and mentorship advice with current students. Alumna Ellie Sennett ‘17 discussed her previous professional experiences as a journalist for The National News and PBS NewsHour, and how her alma mater has provided value to her career.
“Marymount is a smaller school, and the politics program in particular really punches above its weight despite the fierce competition in the area,” Sennett explained. “I’m proud to come from this school where we have a small but unique community of supportive professors and graduates. Now, I feel a responsibility to help showcase the amazing opportunities and life experiences that the Marymount program produces.”
After a brief introduction when alumni from different sectors shared snapshots of their journey toward success, students attended panels focused on specific career interests. The panels covered topics such as international relations, law, public policy and media communications, and included six to seven alumni panelists. During these sessions, speakers addressed student questions and offered advice on succeeding in their given field.
“One of the best things I did while studying here at Marymount was take a wide variety of classes and explore different interest areas,” said Alyssa Batchelor-Causey ‘15, a political consultant and adjunct professor of political science at Marymount. “It gave me a wider perspective on the world and showed me just how much intersection there is between politics and other fields.”
Students had the opportunity to cycle through panels and get connected with a variety of alumni. Freshman political science major Marie Lofty says she found the panels valuable as she looks ahead toward a possible career in the public sector.
“I appreciate the variety of ages and races that are being represented by the panelists, and their willingness to share their personal journeys with students. It was also really helpful to hear from people working in different sectors and wearing lots of different hats. Those insights help me see what career opportunities are out there and what skills I need to build to get ahead.”
The day closed with a keynote on “Civic Engagement in a Time of Political Uncertainty,” given by Dr. William Miller, professor emeritus of political theory at Marymount.
“One of the most important skills you can develop in politics is critical distance,” Dr. Miller said. “You need to have the ability to separate yourself from the subject matter and look at each situation objectively. That allows you to be bipartisan and create truly effective policies.”
He encouraged students to form their own opinions on critical issues and reject the demonization of opposing political viewpoints.
“Take some time to evaluate what you believe and why. Don’t just follow politicians or administrators blindly. Know your core values and act in a way that reflects those values. Treat everyone with dignity and respect, and our country will be a much better place.”
Dr. Rector says he was thrilled with both the alumni and student turnout for the event, and hopes to make the conference an annual event for the political science program.
“It really shows that alumni feel they have gotten a lot from this close-knit community of students, scholars and professionals within the political science program. It also demonstrates the value of coming to a college like Marymount, where you have that network of people who are willing and excited to lift up our students as they set out into the world.”
