During winter term, Dr. Seong-Hee Kim welcomed four business alumni to her Personal Finance class for a panel discussion moderated by CCPD Assistant Director Richard Sylvester about early career experiences and life after graduation.
Although their careers took different directions, each alum emphasized that early professional life is often shaped more by curiosity and adaptability than by a fixed plan. Clay Weissenborn ’15 described finding his way into financial due diligence, a role he likened to “a home inspection for a business,” while Colleen Leonard ’12 reflected on how pursuing an MBA and serving as a coach helped clarify her interests over time. Alex White ’18 underscored the importance of relationships in wealth advising, reminding students that “the world is relationships, not just analytical portfolios.” Dana Wagner ’10, now Director of Marketing and Communications at Discover Kalamazoo, shared how entering the workforce without a job lined up pushed her to build opportunities through initiative, networking and openness to learning.
When the discussion turned to life immediately after graduation, the alumni acknowledged that the transition can feel both freeing and unsettling. Colleen spoke about learning to navigate new independence alongside uncertainty, while Clay encouraged students to think about motivation once grades are no longer part of daily life. Dana recalled the challenge of managing her own time and expectations, saying, “I had to learn to create my own deadlines.” Echoing these reflections, Alex emphasized the value of relationships and mentorship as anchors during the early stages of a career.
The alumni also shared advice for students preparing for internships and first jobs. They encouraged asking questions, paying attention to how different parts of an organization connect, and remembering that employers are interviewing candidates, but candidates are also interviewing employers. Several noted that K’s writing‑intensive courses and academic culture helped them build skills that still matter in their work. They also urged students to take small risks, whether by volunteering for a new project, reaching out to someone in a field they’re curious about, or trying an opportunity that feels slightly outside their comfort zone.
When asked why they chose to return for the panel, each alum pointed to the mentors who supported them when they were students. They hoped to do the same for the next generation and encouraged students to make use of the Kalamazoo College network.
The event highlighted the value of community, reflection and the kind of learning that continues long after graduation. The alumni closed by encouraging students to enjoy their time at K, take pressure off themselves and trust that their paths will take shape with experience.