3 Questions for 3 Graduating Seniors
As the spring semester comes to a close and we prepare to send our 2021 graduates out into the world, we caught up with three seniors to celebrate their time at Chatham and see what’s next for them.
Hayley Robbins ‘21, Psychology
(she/her/hers)
1) What was your favorite part of your time at Chatham?
In all honesty, my favorite part of Chatham has been interacting with the staff and faculty because they are some of the kindest souls. For instance, the professors genuinely care about the well-being and success of their students, and the Parkhurst employees never fail to put a smile on my face. They always brighten my day, which I am extremely appreciative of.
2) What’s next for you?
In the fall, I will be starting classes for Chatham’s entry-level Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program, which will be an exciting new journey. Ideally, I want to be able to pursue pediatric occupational therapy either in a school setting or in foster care. Plus, I hope to continue to work alongside a wonderful group of students to help combat food insecurity on campus while I continue my education.
3) Advice for the incoming class of 2025?
Please, focus on your mental health. During college, it is easy to get caught up in your work; however, if you do not care for yourself mentally, the easiest task will feel like the hardest because it is not a sustainable way of living. Thus, you need to remember to occasionally stop, take a moment to breathe and go do something that makes you enjoy life. On that note, you are going to do amazing. I promise.
Addakin Thomas ‘21, Management with a minor in Political Science
(he/him/his)
1) What was your favorite part of your time at Chatham?
My favorite part of my time at Chatham has been working in the admissions office for the past 2 years! I really enjoy working with my co-workers and getting to know prospective students.
2) What’s next for you?
Beginning in the fall semester, I will be studying at Carnegie Mellon University to earn my Master of Science in Healthcare Policy and Management. The healthcare sector is continuing to evolve, and I look forward to making an impact. With the amazing opportunities here in Pittsburgh and having the ability to apply all the knowledge I have received here at Chatham; I truly believe I have the opportunity to make a difference.
3) Advice for the incoming class of 2025?
Utilize the tools that Chatham has put in place to help their students succeed. Chatham has many networking opportunities and methods to improve students’ professional skills. Get to know your professors and your classmates! Most importantly, branch out and meet some new people. There are so many great people at Chatham and you have so much time to get to know some new people.
Adriana Jurado ‘21, Political Science with minors in Philosophy and History
(she/her/hers)
1) What was your favorite part of your time at Chatham?
I am definitely grateful for the connections I made at Chatham. Connections here have nurtured my growth both personally and professionally. I have made friendships that I know will endure the test of time and given me community when I most needed it. Professionally I would not have had all the opportunities to involve myself in local politics and grassroots campaigns if it wasn’t for my amazing advisor (Dr. Sweet-Cushman), my boss at the PCWP (Dr. Brown), and the support I received from The Women’s Institute and Dr. Ramey so I could complete a formative political organizing training with the Democratic Party for the 2020 presidential election. I will forever be grateful for how much support I had as an undergrad and the professional skills I gained here at Chatham.
2) What’s next for you?
I am going to graduate school in the fall! I accepted a generous scholarship to study macro-social work at the University of Pittsburgh. I want to utilize this degree to be an advocate for marginalized communities and be a change maker.
3) Advice for the incoming class of 2025?
Follow your interests, invest in your growth as a young person, and be nice to your professors! They may get you a job one day or at the very least, an invitation to a drag brunch fundraiser.
Congratulations and good luck to all of our graduating seniors! To learn about spring 2021 commencement plans, head here.