WF Fellows: Looking Back and Forward

When I think about my first day in August, I really had no idea what to expect. The year as a Fellow has given me invaluable experience and rewarding opportunities that have helped shape my outlook as a young professional. I never imagined I would know so much about Wake Forest and feel privileged that I have been able to understand the reality of administration. I have been fortunate enough to work in and learn from the various offices at Wake Forest. As a Fellow, I have learned industriousness, tact, and teamwork among a host of new skills. I have updated blogs, participated in a service trip, and held managerial duties. I have interacted with students and administration with the mission to bridge the gap between the two. Though I’ve found times difficult in balancing students and administration, I have found it an enriching experience, developing my people-skills and communication techniques. I know this program has potential. I wish the Fellows luck in filling their roles and soaking up all that Wake Forest has to offer.

-Tristan Salvanera, President’s Office

My year as a Wake Forest Fellow has been a formative and enjoyable one. This experience was full of growing, through challenging experiences and learning opportunities. Most memorable of all will not be the projects or assignments I completed, but the community of people with whom I interacted daily. My colleagues in the Division of Student Life, the other Fellows, the Event Planning Office, Aramark employees, and many more all provided a wonderful environment with which I’m confident is rivaled by few. As a young professional, the support, guidance, and encouragement I received from my mentor, Dr. Mary Gerardy, and Division of Student Life colleagues, allowed me to develop both personally and professionally. The high expectations and varied responsibilities placed before me were staunch markers of the confidence my supervisors had in me. They also displayed equal support and investment in my success after the fellowship came to an end. I could not have asked for more balanced, amicable, and competent individuals to work with.

As I look back, I am amazed at the many facets of the university with which I’ve had the opportunity to engage. It has been my ultimate privilege and great joy to be a part of the inaugural class of Fellows. Best wishes to the new Fellows!

-Keon McGuire, Student Life

Nearly 300 alumni, parents and friends across the country have shared their memories, their passions and their lives with me. I have talked with alumni of all ages, backgrounds, interests and regions – the one thing that we all have in common is a deep love for Wake Forest; its community, its hospitality, its people, its standards, and its integrity. What a truly special Wake Forest family we have.

I feel lucky to have experienced Wake Forest in a different light this year. Many can brag about a wonderful college experience as a student but, few are fortunate enough to channel that passion into a career. I have come to value this place as an alumna myself. Meeting with our alumni, I have been inspired by their passion and dedication to all areas of life. Wake Foresters are people who truly do well and do good.

I’m delighted to say that I will continue my career here at Wake Forest, next year working with young alumni and our reunions program. While sad to leave the Fellows position, I place it in the incredibly capable hands of our newest fellow, Trevor Taylor (’09). I hope all alumni have the chance to meet him.

-Lydia Harter, Advancement

This past year has gone by so fast. Even though I feel far removed from being a student, there is so much to learn every single day. I love the work I do and the people I work with. They’ve confidently given me projects I didn’t think I could do. They’ve let me mess up, and yet learn from my mistakes to succeed in the projects. The best part about this job is the academic setting we work in. They are not only your supervisors and co-workers, but advisors and mentors as well.

The people here are phenomenal and the opportunities available, incredible. Even though it was an adjustment at first to switch from a student to staff position, I was treated with respect and an equal at all levels. It has allowed me to learn fascinating aspects of Wake Forest and the higher education sector itself as well.

Taking on this position was one of the best decisions I have made. Not only have I grown professionally, but I’ve discovered intriguing qualities and interests I possess. I am curious to see what possibilities lay ahead. Regardless, the skills I’ve acquired and relationships I’ve built will stay with me for a long time.

-Parul Patel, Office of the Provost