Bronco Spotlight: Chris Sell

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Bachelor of Arts, organizational communication and English, 2007

Current Job Title:

Internship Developer

Current Employer:

Michigan State University

Describe your current job:

In my current role as Internship Developer at Michigan State University, I lead events, create programs, and coordinate outreach to employers across multiple industries in the STEM fields to help nearly 5,000 students in our College of Natural Science pursue internships and experiential learning opportunities.

What is the most rewarding and the most challenging part of your job?

I often compare my role in educating college students to being good company on their journey. When I can help a student land an internship with a dynamic organization that completely alters their career path, I feel completely fulfilled.

What activities, resources, or people helped you prepare for your career?

Midway through my junior year at WMU, I decided that I no longer wanted to graduate with a teaching degree. I liked the idea of teaching, but not in a classroom every day, all day. I slowly realized that all of the leadership experiences I had engaged in outside the classroom -- like First-Year Experience Programs or working at the Student Recreation Center -- had really prepared me for a career in higher education administration where I'd get the chance to teach, mentor, and coach students, but in a different context. If I hadn't gotten involved in those activities, I never would have found the career path I'm on now. 

What advice would you offer students to help them decide on a career path?

I often tell people that college is a laboratory for discovery. I was fortunate enough to participate in undergraduate research while I was a Bronco, and the experience taught me so much about self-autonomy, problem-solving, and critical-thinking. Your time at WMU will be filled with opportunities to learn more about yourself and the world around you. Go on an alternative spring break or a mission trip. Participate in undergraduate research. Join an on-campus student organization. Experiences like these often dovetail with your classroom learning, and before you even realize it, you'll discover that you've identified the right career path for you.

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