The Hale Center for Career Development’s Career Fellows Program selects a highly-trained paraprofessional student staff to augment the services of the professional career advisors. Fellows are available for drop-in/Career Studio hours Mondays through Friday, 2-4 pm in Fanning 111. They help students with the internship and job search process, assist during career sessions, and help all students with resume and cover letter critiques.
Are you a current sophomore or junior Connecticut College student interested in becoming a Fellow? Applications will be available early in the spring semester. Check Handshake’s on-campus job postings to apply.
SENIOR PRE-BUSINESS CAREER FELLOW FROM TOPSFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS; ECONOMICS MAJOR; FINANCE MINOR
Pronouns: He/Him
I have enjoyed working with numbers since a young age. During my time at Conn, I have gained an interest in finance and have been actively pursuing a career in the industry. Over the past couple years, I’ve had the opportunity to intern within different industries in finance including wealth management, real estate private equity, and investment banking. This past summer I interned at MUFG Bank Ltd., as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst on the Sponsor Finance & Direct Lending Team, assisting with various leveraged finance deals. On campus, I have taught a finance interview cohort for students looking to break into finance, preparing them with the necessary networking and behavioral/technical interview skills. In addition to being a Career Fellow, I am President of the Peggotty Investment Club, an Accounting Tutor, a member of the Men’s Lacrosse Team, and part of the founding leadership for Connecticut College Investment Banking (CCIB), a student-run club focused on preparing students for interviews and networking in investment banking.
SENIOR PRE-LAW CAREER FELLOW FROM WEST LEBANON, NEW HAMPSHIRE; GOVERNMENT MAJOR; CLASSICS AND FRENCH STUDIES DOUBLE MINOR; PEACE AND CONFLICT PATHWAY
Pronouns: He/Him
Growing up, history was my favorite subject, and I have always been intrigued by conflict and resolution. My favorite high school classes typically involved world history, and I particularly enjoyed studying World War II and the Cold War. I originally came to Conn as a history major, and later bounced around to classics, and finally found my footing as a government major, while double minoring in classics and French Studies. I also was fortunate enough to combine my studies and my particular interests by enrolling in the Peace and Conflict Pathway. This past summer, I had the unique opportunity to help Professor Fleury, of the Conn government department, with a chapter of his book that he is currently working on. In previous summers, I’ve had experience working for a law firm local to my hometown in New Hampshire. With my experience and academic opportunities, I hope to help resolve conflict by venturing into the world of foreign policy and international security. In addition to being a Career Fellow, I am a member of the Men’s Basketball team, a communications and media tutor, and an intern at the Academic Resource Center located in Shain Library.
SENIOR CAREER FELLOW FROM WELLESLEY, MASSACHUSETTS; STUDIO ART AND PSYCHOLOGY DOUBLE MAJOR; CREATIVITY PATHWAY
Pronouns: She/Her
I was drawn to art as a medium of expression from a young age, which became apparent via avid crayon scribbles on the wall and permanent markers staining the carpet. Throughout the development of my artistic practice and education, my interests have grown to communication design, social psychology, neuropsychology, and contemporary art. I am inspired by the psychology of navigating a physical space and working with color, texture, light, and interior design to develop a deeper experience for viewers when interacting with art. My personal work largely consists of painting, but spans graphic design, sculpture, photography, and printmaking. As a member of the Studio Art Student Advisory Board, I have been actively involved in the annual student show curation and installation. Studying abroad in Rome spring semester of 2024, I immersed myself in ancient and contemporary art history, including courses specializing in gallery curation through the Tyler School of Art at Temple University Rome. This past summer, I was in Manhattan working as a gallery intern at Ruiz-Healy Art, a gallery assistant at Cuchifritos Gallery + Project Space, and a studio assistant for artist Gilda Pervin on the Bowery. In addition to being a Career Fellow on campus, I am a Barista at the Coffee Closet and Chair of the Studio Art Student Advisory Board. I enjoy running, yoga, hiking, and cooking in my free time.
JUNIOR PRE-HEALTH CAREER FELLOW FROM PORTLAND, OREGON; NEUROSCIENCE AND GLOBAL ISLAMIC STUDIES DOUBLE MAJOR
Pronouns:She/Her
Exploring the intersection of disciplines is a passion I apply in every aspect of my student experience. As a neuroscience major, I investigate the impact of our nervous systems to our day-to-day experiences. With global Islamic studies, I not only study the ‘Islamic World’ but the lived experiences of Islam all over the world. Aside from my academics, I am a part of the rowing team, captain of Ski Club, and I am on the e-board for the Muslim Student Association. You may also find me as a TA for psychological statistics, tutoring for general chemistry, and volunteering at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. When I find time to relax, I love reading creative works, watching old movies, and hiking.
JUNIOR PRE-HEALTH CAREER FELLOW FROM ACCRA, GHANA; NEUROSCIENCE MAJOR; EDUCATIONAL STUDIES AND CHEMISTRY MINOR
Pronouns: She/Her
I like to question everything that comes to mind. This habit of mine led me to question the nature of human connections and interactions during my high school career and now in my undergraduate years. In college, I found different outlets and resources to channel my curiosity about the science of humans. As a junior, I have spent summers on campus researching the experiences of Black and African American students in higher educational STEM settings, as well as the nature of trauma and trauma-informed practices in STEM education on a physiological and neurological level. I was introduced to a world of virtual STEM research at the University of California, San Diego, where we worked closely with instructors to make their teaching practices and philosophies more equitable. Outside of the classroom and career office environment, I am the outreach representative for the African Student Association, as well as a member of the Pre-Health Club and the Black Student Union. In my spare time, I love to read, listen to music, and cook food from my home country.
SENIOR CAREER FELLOW FROM SAN MATEO, CALIFORNIA; INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, FRENCH DOUBLE MAJOR; ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MINOR; STUDENT SCHOLAR IN THE TOOR CUMMINGS CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AND THE LIBERAL ARTS (CISLA)
Pronouns: He/Him
I grew up with two older siblings. From a young age, I quickly learned how to advocate for myself. Advocacy has followed me throughout my life. In high school, I attended city council meetings while working at an environmental non-profit to advocate for progressive sustainability measures. In college, I interned for California State Senator Josh Becker, working on environmental advocacy for cleaner, more affordable transportation. My work in advocacy continued in Jewish affairs as a fellow for the International Advocacy program through the Simon Wiesenthal Center, where I interned at the Red Cross on the International Services team, attending events, and working at the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. This past summer, I interned at L’ Alliance Israélite Universelle, a Jewish educational and advocacy organization in Paris, France. I love soccer. I coach at summer camps and referee throughout the year. In addition to being a Career Fellow, I am involved at Conn as a Co-president of Hillel, the Business Manager of The College Voice, a board member of The Climate Collective, a member of Club Soccer, and a senior representative on the CISLA student advisory board.
JUNIOR PRE-BUSINESS CAREER FELLOW FROM CHICAGO, ILLINOIS; ECONOMICS MAJOR; FINANCE MINOR
Pronouns: He/Him
I am a dedicated advocate for social equity, with a strong focus on making higher education more accessible to minoritized communities. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, I draw inspiration from my Hispanic heritage and the challenges I’ve overcome as the first in my family to attend college. This personal journey fuels my passion for breaking down barriers and creating pathways for others to achieve their educational goals. My commitment to fostering inclusivity and representation in higher education is evident through my active participation in the Men of Color Alliance. In this role, I work collaboratively with peers and mentors to support the academic and personal growth of men of color, advocating for policies and programs that address the unique challenges faced by these students. Beyond work, I enjoy video games, movies, and reading. My favorite book as of this moment is Dune, or if you read the manga, I'm currently reading Berserk!!
JUNIOR PRE-HEALTH CAREER FELLOW FROM DURHAM, NEW HAMPSHIRE; BIOLOGY MAJOR; MATH AND STATISTICS/DATA SCIENCE MINOR
Pronouns: She/Her
My favorite TV show growing up was Doc Mcstuffins, starring a 6-year old girl who treats her stuffed animals in her playhouse clinic. Since then, I knew I wanted to contribute to the world of healthcare. I initially began college as a pre-medical student until I explored other avenues, such as mathematics and statistics, which led to my main interest in bioinformatics. This past summer, I was able to conduct research in this field when I conducted a metagenomic analysis of soil microbial DNA samples. I look forward to using the skills I gained this summer in a real industry setting. Outside of school, I am involved with the Office of Admissions as a tour guide. Being a tour guide is one of my favorite campus involvements because I get to continuously meet new people and talk about how much I love Conn! During my free time, I enjoy going on runs, doing pilates, going to the beach, and trying new restaurants.
SENIOR PRE-BUSINESS CAREER FELLOW FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK; ECONOMICS MAJOR; FINANCE MINOR
Pronouns: He/Him
From my early years, a strong aspiration for independence has guided me. One route I pursued to attain this was through financial literacy. This passion has strongly influenced my journey in finance. Throughout high school, I engaged in various programs that introduced me to a range of financial firms. These experiences allowed me to explore financial concepts more comprehensively in college, both through my studies and through events organized by the Hale Center. The quote 'it takes a village' holds true, as my fascination with mentoring developed largely due to bearing witness to the profound impact that mentors from diverse backgrounds had on shaping my own journey. I hold a strong passion for aiding others along their path. In addition to my role as a Pre-Business Career Fellow, I serve as a Student Advisory Board Member for economics, work as a Circulation Assistant in Shain Library, and actively participate in the Peggotty Investment Club. During my leisure moments, I take pleasure in spending quality time with my loved ones and engaging in activities such as kayaking and basketball.
SENIOR CAREER FELLOW FROM BRONX, NEW YORK; HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND LATIN AMERICAN & LATINO STUDIES MAJOR; STUDENT SCHOLAR IN THE TOOR CUMMINGS CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AND THE LIBERAL ARTS (CISLA)
Pronouns: She/Her
Throughout my time in academia, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of mentorship and networking through my roles as the Vice President of the class of 2025, the Vice President of the Women’s Weightlifting Club, and as a Posse and CISLA scholar. In high school, I took part in the Hayden Summer Bridge Program to mentor incoming freshmen and help ease their transition to high school. Adjacent to that, my role as a big sib in the Genesis Program has allowed me to successfully establish strong relationships with my mentees, also known as little sibs. I am actively serving as a big sib to four little sibs who I guide through academic, social, and personal issues. As a first-generation student and a former little sib, I have first-handedly experienced the efficacious impact that a strong mentorship can have on one’s experience in academia. For these reasons and more, I look forward to giving the guidance I have been given thus far to the members of the Conn community.
SENIOR CAREER FELLOW FROM CHICAGO, ILLINOIS; COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJOR; AMERICAN STUDIES & PSYCHOLOGY DOUBLE MINORS; DATA, INFORMATION, & SOCIETY PATHWAY
Pronouns: She/Her
Throughout my undergraduate career, I’ve had the pleasure of immersing myself in classes I am deeply passionate about across various disciplines, like computer science, psychology, theater, and ethnic studies. I also have partaken in multiple leadership positions both on and off campus, from serving as Co-Chair for Asian Students in Action and the Computer Science Student Advisory Board to guiding First-Gen, Low-Income (FGLI) students through their high school and college journeys at a community-based organization. These experiences have built my interdisciplinary skills and knowledge that led me to explore the world of Human-Computer Interaction by conducting computing education research at Carnegie Mellon University's Human-Computer Interaction Institute. My inside and outside-the-classroom experiences all contributed to my desire to better the world we live in and uplift the communities I’m a part of and learning about. During my time as a Career Fellow, my goal is to help students effectively utilize the Hale Center’s resources to guide them on their career journeys, just as the Hale Center has taught me to embrace my own career journey.
SENIOR LEAD CAREER FELLOW FROM PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND; ANTHROPOLOGY AND STUDIO ART DOUBLE MAJOR; FOOD PATHWAY
Pronouns: She/Her
Growing up, my favorite bedtime story was "A Christmas Memory" by Truman Capote. I loved how Capote recounted his memories of gathering ingredients and baking fruitcakes with his cousin. I resonated deeply with the emotions that gifting the cakes to his loved ones brought up. Throughout my life, I have used my love of baking as a way of understanding the world's complex and interdisciplinary relationship with food. Academically, my interests in cuisine and people have evolved into a major in anthropology with a food studies concentration, where I have learned about the global food system and analyzed food's role in communities. In addition, I manage a team of bakers at Coffee Grounds, a student-run coffee shop, where I have restructured the baking program to make it more profitable while still encouraging creativity from the team of bakers. I believe that food is a wonderfully basic and universally understood storyteller, and in the future, I hope to use my interest in baking and food writing to continue telling stories and bringing people together.
JUNIOR PRE-BUSINESS CAREER FELLOW FROM DERRY, NEW HAMPSHIRE; QUANTITATIVE ECONOMICS/ECONOMETRICS & GERMAN STUDIES DOUBLE MAJOR; STUDENT SCHOLAR IN THE TOOR CUMMINGS CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES AND THE LIBERAL ARTS (CISLA)
Pronouns: He/Him
Working as a Career Fellow has given me the unique opportunity to mentor and assist students in their career search. While Connecticut College’s alumni network is small, we have strong, tight-knit relationships with our alumni that provide great opportunities for our students. During my time as a Career Fellow, I aim to help students leverage these connections to explore their career options and achieve their goals. This past summer, I interned at RenaissanceRe - a Bermuda domiciled reinsurance company. There, I worked primarily within the company’s property underwriting team, while I also gained experience in actuarial processes, catastrophe modeling, and risk management. On campus, I am a member of Connecticut College’s Men’s Soccer Team, a German tutor, and a member of CISLA.
SOPHOMORE OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM BROOKLYN, NEW YORK; COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJOR
Pronouns: He/Him/His
I was born in Nigeria and moved to Brooklyn, New York around the age of eight with my parents and brothers. Growing up, I discovered a passion for technology, so it wasn’t a surprise when I decided to declare Computer Science as my major here at Conn. A Posse Scholar, I also like to play chess.
Shatalya Charlton ’27
FRESHMAN OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM THE BRONX, NEW YORK; UNDECLARED MAJOR, PROBABLY PSYCHOLOGY
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
When I was choosing a college, I decided to attend Conn because of my school counselor’s recommendation that it would be a perfect fit for my personality. I’m currently a member of the Conn Christian Fellowship, the Student Government Association (SGA), and the Women of Color Collective (WOCC). I also serve as the house senator for Morrison. I’m looking forward to playing different sports along with other students during my spare time. My passions include dancing, creative writing, communicating with others, and babysitting. Since I’m a first-year student, I have not declared my major yet. My hope, however, is to major in Psychology. I also plan on studying abroad and giving back to my community as much as I can.
Clare Foster ’25
JUNIOR OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM MILTON, MASSACHUSETTS; PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR; THEATER MINOR
Pronouns: Any
I’ve found the human mind fascinating ever since I was a child. My first brush with psychological science was in my senior year of high school. Though I wasn’t able to participate in the class in-person due to COVID-19, I still found a love for it. I came to Conn hoping to major in Neuroscience, but found that chemistry was not my strong suit, so I changed my plans. I found that psychology was the perfect fit for me and hope to continue my studies at the doctoral level. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues throughout my life, I hope to better understand mental health disorders and use my knowledge to aid others who struggle from mental disorders.
I enjoy theater and have for my entire life. I’m part of the improv group N2O, and hope to participate in more theater productions throughout the rest of my time at Connecticut College. I’m also interested in classical music and opera singing.
Outside of classroom and on-campus activities, I enjoy playing guitar and singing, watching movies with friends, and playing video games.
Carmen Nimako ’26
SOPHOMORE OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM THE BRONX, NEW YORK;
BIOLOGY MAJOR; COMPUTER SCIENCE INTENDED MINOR
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I’ve always been passionate about healthcare because I find meaning and purpose in serving others. On campus, this passion has led to an interest in Biology and Chemistry. A first-generation college student, I plan to obtain an MSN in hopes of becoming a pediatric travel nurse.
During my first year at the college, I quickly became a vital member of the Conn community. I’m the owner of “Carmen’s Beauty Room,” a space where I provide culturally-significant hair services to the African/African American and Hispanic communities. On campus, I work for both the Hale Center and the Holleran Center for Community Action. I’m also a member of Posse, the Black Student Union (BSU), the African Student Association (ASA), and the Conn Christian Fellowship (CCF). Outside of school involvement, I enjoy spending time with my friends, working out, and listening to music.
Julio Ortiz ’25
JUNIOR OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS; SOCIOLOGY MAJOR; LATIN AMERICAN AND LATINO STUDIES INTENDED MINOR
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Before arriving at Connecticut college, I found my passion in social justice and connecting with people in a public charter school called Roxbury Preparatory. Roxbury Prep was founded by John B. King Jr., the former United States Secretary of Education under Obama. In Roxbury Prep, I found interest in Sociology and social change because of my teachers who cared about getting more people of color to “enter, succeed in, and graduate from college” (Roxbury Prep’s Slogan). After graduating from Roxbury Prep, I returned over school breaks to do recruitment work for the school such as door hanging, flyering, and calls with parents.
Coming from a diverse middle and high school in Boston, I wanted to bring a bit of home to Connecticut College and be the representation on campus that I wanted to see. I did this by joining Las Voces Unidas, an affinity club dedicated for latine and non-latine students at Connecticut college, and Queer, Trans, & Intersex POC, a student organization for Queer, Trans, & Intersex people of color, both as treasurer. Additionally, I assist and guide first-generation students on campus as a “Big Sib” (Genesis Program) during their first year of college.
Over the Summer of 2023, I worked as a housing counselor for ABCD (Action for Boston Community Development). At ABCD, I assisted a caseload of more than 30 clients, each having a unique story behind why they are homeless or on the verge of homelessness. In the future, I plan on working for another non-profit organization where I can provide assistance to the public after graduating from Connecticut College.
Melisa Sierra ’26
SOPHOMORE OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM HOUSTON, TEXAS; NEUROSCIENCE MAJOR; DANCE INTENDED MINOR
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Coming to Connecticut College was a dream come true for me as a first-generation college student. Conn offers a wide array of academic options due to its liberal arts focus, which was extremely important to me. As soon as I arrived at the college, I started to dive deeper into Neuroscience and Dance through various events and classes. In the future, I’m interested in being part of the Neuropsychology field. Throughout my first year at Connecticut College, I’ve been involved with the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán (MECHA), Dance Club, and the Dance department. I want to study abroad and join one of Conn’s Connections Pathways. With the experiences I’ve had at Conn, I plan to return to Houston, TX after graduation and give back to my community.
Abigail Williams ’27
FRESHMAN OPERATIONS FELLOW FROM WATERVILLE, MAINE; UNDECLARED MAJOR
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I found out about Conn after getting a letter in the mail from the cross country and track and field coach asking if I’d be interested in coming to Conn. I was excited that it would give me an opportunity to continue not only my academic career, but my athletic career as well. Being away from home was very hard for me at first, but being a part of a supportive team has opened my eyes to the benefits of having a family away from home. Although I’m undecided about my major, my courses have sparked an interest in Sociology, Literature, and Environmental Studies. Being from Maine, I’ve found a passion for the preservation of the outdoors. Other than running, I also enjoy the outdoors, reading, ice fishing, kayaking, and spending time with family, friends, and dogs.
Employer Engagement Career Fellows:
Career Fellows dedicated to support the professional efforts of the Hale Center for Career Development’s Employer Engagement Team, assist with efforts to engage employers and alumni, event coordination, and in maintaining job and internship postings within our career management system. Their organization, research abilities, and dedication to this team is instrumental.
Grace Flynn ’25
JUNIOR EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT FELLOW FROM PORTLAND, MAINE; PERFORMANCE STUDIES MAJOR, SIDM; ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES MINOR
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I came to Conn as a transfer student at the beginning of my sophomore year. I’ve been involved in communications and graphic design for most of my life and I’m always looking for ways to support others. I’m currently one of two Arts Editors for The College Voice, the Marketing Director for Wig and Candle, and a member of the Ammerman Center’s Student Advisory Board. My passions include hiking and camping, painting, attending concerts, and discussing art in all its various forms. In the future, I plan to pursue a career in community development.
Marketing & Communications Career Fellows:
In partnership with the advising team and the other Fellows, the Marketing & Communications Career Fellows create and execute a marketing strategy that highlights events and outcomes to on and off campus audiences primarily through social media.
JUNIOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS FELLOW FROM NEWCASTLE, MAINE;
ENGLISH MAJOR, ECONOMICS MINOR; MEDIA, RHETORIC, AND COMMUNICATION PATHWAY
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I got my start in social media by starting an Instagram account in my freshman year of high school that focused on sharing my tennis training and experiences with tennis programs in Maine. After gaining some recognition, I was noticed by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), which invited me to be an ambassador for them. From there, I was offered a position with the Maine Tennis Association as Marketing Director. One of my favorite aspects of this job was the local event coverage I was able to do, which connected the Maine tennis community in a positive way. I’m excited to bring my marketing and social media experience to the Hale Center to share the great work that goes on in the Center and to better connect the Conn community with the Center. On campus, I’m a member of the women’s tennis team and a member of Conn’s OneLove chapter. After graduating from Conn, I would like to pursue a career working for a marketing agency in a city like New York or Boston.
JUNIOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS FELLOW FROM NAPERVILLE, ILLINOIS;
ECONOMICS MAJOR, PSYCHOLOGY & SOCIOLOGY DOUBLE MINOR, MEDIA, RHETORIC, AND COMMUNICATION PATHWAY
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
I’m absolutely a people-person who makes the most of every situation. From the classroom, to the hockey rink, to the office, I enjoy building relationships, learning new skills, creating optimal experiences, and achieving results (that’s the competitor in me). Growing up in a loving, supportive, and goal-oriented family, I’m driven to cultivate an atmosphere at the Hale Center that mirrors the warmth and sense of belonging found in a home.
It’s in my nature to lend a helping hand and make a meaningful impact in my community. At the Hale Center for Career Development, I actively contribute to a mission to help students connect their academic interests with practical experiences, shaping a unique and fulfilling career path that leverages the liberal arts education into professional success. For my personal development, the Career Center fuels my excitement to embark on a successful professional journey. I’m motivated to pursue a career in Business Development/Corporate Marketing, and am eager to blend professional growth with the excitement of exploring a new vibrant city like NYC or Boston.
Outside of the classroom and office, I compete on Conn’s Women’s Ice Hockey Team and am on the Executive Board for both The Hidden Opponent and One Love chapters on campus. How would I define a spectacular day? Any that involves new experiences with family and friends, country music, and of course laughter!
Connecticut College Hale Center for Career Development 270 Mohegan Ave. New London, CT 06320
Office Hours
Academic Year - Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5 pm ET Breaks - Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4 pm ET
Handshake is the centralized resource for events and activities and is where appointments with Career Advisers and Career Fellows can be made. During the academic year, Career Fellows may be available for appointments outside of the 8:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. timeframe. Employer events may also be held outside of standard office hours.
