Jill Hogue found her niche at Southwestern when she took Introduction to Psychology taught by Traci Guiliano, professor of psychology. "When I realized I enjoyed studying for class, I was sold. I knew I was going to be a psychology major," she states. Hogue also minored in both Spanish and business. She says, "Spanish and business were practical choices. I had the great opportunity to go to Oaxaca, Mexico with the Southwestern summer program, so it made getting my Spanish minor that much more enjoyable."

Hogue also managed to stay very busy with her extracurricular activities. A member of Delta Delta Delta and Student Foundation, she took on leadership positions serving as president of Delta Delta Delta and public relations chair for Student Foundation. Hogue also was an outdoor trip supervisor with the intramural office and was an academic mentor. Looking back, Hogue comments, "The experiences that I gained in these roles prepared me for real world leadership responsibilities. It was a lot to balance at times; however, it did make me a stronger person--as an individual and as a leader."

Following her graduation, Hogue still was searching for a job when Dr. Guiliano, her collegiate research advisor, called and told Hogue that her sister, Toni Wegner, had a position available in her department, Research Computing Services, at Harvard Business School. "I was in Boston by July, where I started as the coordinator of research support in research computing services," states Hogue. "In this job, I managed all of the research software for the school, as well as coordinated the human subjects pool for the experimental research. It was a great way to incorporate my psychology degree, and it was interesting to see how the fields of psychology and business mesh at a business school."

Now, Hogue is working in Faculty Administration--the Human Resource office for the faculty of Harvard Business School. Recently receiving a promotion, Hogue is now the appointments coordinator. "I work very closely with the two senior associate deans, who oversee the faculty promotion process," she says. "I help coordinate the appointments process from A to Z, mostly organizing all the administrative logistics surrounding the faculty promotion process."

Working in a higher education environment, Hogue feels that she is making a contribution to the progress of the school. "I feel like I'm making a tangible contribution to a very important process at the school. I'm not making the big decisions, but it is rewarding to facilitate this process with efficiency and professionalism. I like that people rely on me to make this process work." Hogue also appreciates getting to see the administrative side of how a university works. "I am learning about the intricacies of higher education at a top business school. It has made me consider a career in higher education and/or business," she comments. "I have enjoyed seeing, firsthand, how the administrative side and the academic side work together to run a university."

Moving to Boston not knowing anyone, Hogue has adjusted to the urban lifestyle with ease. "I have a great group of friends here, and I love to go out on the weekends, try new restaurants and explore New England with my boyfriend." Life in Boston does have its challenging moments as Hogue is not a big fan of the winter weather and lack of Tex-Mex. "It's hard to find a good margarita, but I do love lobster and clam chowder," comments Hogue. "Boston is now home, but I miss my family back in Texas."

Although Hogue is not sure where her future will take her, she is excited and ready for it. "My years after college have taught me that life will throw curveballs. Life's adventures have made me stronger, more self aware and a little more prepared for the unknown. I'm excited to see where things lead me in the years to come."