Infinite Careers is a collaboration between Career Services (CAPD) and the MIT Alumni Association to explore career paths and the non-linearity of career decision making. Read profiles of alumni with unique career paths, hear their stories and network at a series of talks.
Education
- MIT – Bachelor Of Science, 3B – Materials Science & Engineering
Bio
I’ve spent more than two decades in higher education, beginning at MIT as a student consultant in Information Technology Services through the Athena Consulting program. That experience taught me how powerful it can be when students support one another and learn skills that extend beyond the classroom. Throughout my IT career, I’ve focused on creating programs that help students build not only technical expertise but also confidence in leadership, management, and service. Now, in law school admissions, I bring that same philosophy to working with prospective students, encouraging them to explore how their varied interests intersect with the law. My background in technology continues to shape my approach, from improving the tools our office relies on to finding new, human-centered ways to connect with applicants and future students.
Is there anything you wish you had done differently or more of while you were at MIT?
I wish I had given myself more freedom to explore classes simply because they seemed interesting or exciting. When I arrived at MIT, I planned to major in chemical engineering, but I soon realized that materials science and engineering felt like a better fit. Still, I hesitated to make the switch right away, and that hesitation left less room for exploration later on. Looking back, I wish I had trusted my instincts earlier and given myself credit for knowing what was right for me.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career?
There are two things that stand out. First, I truly enjoy working with students and knowing that I can make a difference even though I’m not faculty – that I can still be an educator in my own way. Second, I’m grateful that my career has given me the flexibility to stay deeply involved with my family. I’ve never regretted choosing a path that allows me to show up for my kids and volunteer in their activities, even if it meant earning a little less along the way.
What motivates you to do the work that you do?
For me, it’s always been about discovery – helping others see what they’re capable of, and getting to experience that same excitement myself. I love watching that spark when someone realizes they can do something they didn’t think they could, and I feel it too when I finally solve a problem or get something to work. Education and problem-solving both have that magic of turning frustration into understanding. That moment of connection and growth is what keeps me coming back every day.
What do you like to do outside of work for fun/relaxation/inspiration?
Most of my free time revolves around my kids and the activities we share together. Robotics has become a big part of that – I love being in the shop or at competitions, watching students (including my own) bring their ideas to life and celebrate what they’ve built. I’ve learned so much through those moments, from picking up programming and electrical skills to appreciating the creativity and teamwork behind it all. I also love baseball and spent years driving my son to tournaments; now that he’s in college, I still watch every game I can. And nothing makes me happier than cheering for my daughters in their musical theater and dance performances – things I could never do myself but love experiencing through them.
Do you participate in any volunteer/community service activities? If so, how do you balance your professional and personal responsibilities?
Much of my volunteer work centers on education and youth programs in our community. My husband (Kris, also an MIT alum!) and I helped start our town’s FIRST Robotics teams, including FLL Challenge for elementary and middle school students and FRC Team 8085 MOJO for high schoolers. We mentor the teams year-round, guiding students through everything from design reviews and coding sessions to outreach events that promote STEM for all. I’ve also volunteered on Little League and PTA boards and helped organize the elementary school drama club – all ways to build opportunities for kids to learn and belong. Balancing it all isn’t always easy, but I’ve found that when your work and service share the same purpose – helping young people grow – they naturally support each other.
Last edited: November 2025
