Stories.

Constructing an Affordable Future in Namibia feat. Samuel Akinin

Hosted by Tommy Switzgable

Meet Samuel Akinin, E’16! An accomplished entrepreneur, Samuel’s businesses span across the country of Namibia, providing Namibians with everything from easy bank access to affordable housing. Hear how his Northeastern experience influenced him to become an entrepreneur and shaped his business acumen!  Linkedin JabuPay Learn about JabuPayLearn about Atenu DevelopmentsLearn about the ECD Center in […]

Migue Van Louis Padinit Darcera

Migue Darcera knows what he wants to do long term—become a physician-scientist focused on infectious diseases while advocating to advance STEM education equity and global vaccine accessibility. Everything he has done in his college career is leading up to that. Set to graduate summa cum laude with a 3.91 GPA, Migue is “a role model […]

Donte Jovan Lewis

Scholar. Leader. Researcher. Innovator. Humanitarian. That’s Donté Lewis, whose major is cell and molecular biology. He might also add bookworm, food enthusiast, nature observer, and chef to the list. Donté is deeply involved in Northeastern’s culture. He’s vice president of the College of Science Student Leadership Council; vice president of the Beta Alpha Chapter of […]

Chinonso Ginika Morsindi

Throughout Chinonso Morsindi’s five-year academic journey, she has achieved academic excellence, inspired leadership, and exhibited professional development. Chinonso is set to graduate from the D’Amore-McKim School of Business with a 3.77 GPA. Chinonso is president of the Black Business Student Association (BBSA), and planned the group’s inaugural Black Professionals Conference, a landmark event that fostered […]

Diana Venus Turrieta

Before beginning her PhD program in August through the Biochemistry, Quantitative Biology, Biophysics and Structural Biology Track at Yale University, Diana Turrieta will continue to help and support minority students. This summer, she will be a TA in chemistry and algebra for high school students in the Mathematics and Science for Minority Students Program at […]

Chisako Julia Oga-Cunningham

Most people go to college and then grow into their careers. Chisako Oga-Cunningham is not like most people. She already has a lucrative career as a principal dancer with the Boston Ballet, and will soon be a Northeastern University graduate. Chisako is currently one of the best in the world in her profession. She is […]

Mya Jane Leonardo

Mya Leonardo, who will graduate with a 4.0 GPA in biology, is narrowly taking a break before she starts attending Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine in July 2025. This pace is not unusual for Mya, as she has been a powerhouse on campus and in the community throughout her time on […]

Shannen Dawn Louie Espinosa

“An interdisciplinary marvel” is how Senior Associate Dean of Academic Programs and Student Experience, Khoury College of Computer Sciences Ben Hescott refers to Shannen Espinosa. She has worked in labs from Boston to London—focusing on neuroendocrinology at Boston Children’s Hospital; exploring the role of quantum computing in international law at the UN office in Geneva; […]

Ashley Paige DiLorenzo

Playwright, actor, songwriter, singer, scholar—that’s Ashley DiLorenzo in a nutshell. The multitalented, soon-to-be Northeastern grad has penned eight plays, co-produced two Off-Broadway developmental workshops of new musicals, won the 2021 Musical Theatre Songwriting Challenge sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and American Theatre Wing, and performed in front of many theatrical audiences. Ashley […]

Sebastian Caicedo

Sebastian Caicedo has demonstrated leadership and integrity in both his native Texas, in Boston, and at Northeastern. He is devoted to making the world a better place and taking on the plight of immigrants and the underserved. In Texas, Sebastian interned with Dia de la Mujer Latina, a community health organization, and helped inform the […]

Clara Barsoum

“Clara Barsoum is the definition of leadership, service and volunteerism, academic integrity, and commitment to Northeastern,” says Kelliann Henry, associate director of undergraduate student engagement at CSSH. “While Clara is a student I have supervised, I also consider her a colleague in the work of social justice leadership on campus and beyond.” Since arriving on […]

Gabrielle Rose Bailey

“When I think of students who best embody the values of Northeastern and in particular the ideas of these awards, I think of [Gabrielle Bailey]” says Tim Lannin, her professor and associate chair for undergraduate affairs in BIOE. “A great purpose drives Gabi—that of helping people.” Gabrielle has proven that countless times during her years […]

A Career Full of Energy

By Tommy Switzgable

Bob Deacy, CJ’80, never imagined his Northeastern social sciences degree would eventually lead to a long career in the energy industry. “I remember standing on top of an oil rig as we were drilling, and thinking to myself, ‘How did I get on top of an oil rig when I studied criminal justice?’” he recalls. […]

A Tiny Home with a Big Impact feat. Alex Eaves AMD ’99 & Derek “Deek” Diedricksen AMD ’00

Meet Alex Eaves, AMD’99 and Derek “Deek” Diedricksen, AMD’00! After many near misses on campus, these two Huskies finally met at the Stoughton Farmers Market where Alex was selling his reuse clothing brand, Stay Vocal. Combining their shared interest in sustainability and Deek’s background in building tiny houses, the two created The Box Truck out […]

A Tiny Home with a Big Impact feat. Alex Eaves AMD ’99 and Derek “Deek” Diedricksen AMD ’00

by Tommy Switzgable

Meet Alex Eaves, AMD’99 and Derek “Deek” Diedricksen, AMD’00! After many near misses on campus, these two Huskies finally met at the Stoughton Farmers Market where Alex was selling his reuse clothing brand, Stay Vocal. Combining their shared interest in sustainability and Deek’s background in building tiny houses, the two created The Box Truck out […]

A Marathon of Innovation feat. Adrianne Ohnemus

Meet Adrianne Ohnemus, BHS’20! A doctor of physical therapy, Adrianne utilized her Northeastern experience to its full potential—from her engaging co-op experience to curating her skills in Bouvé’s simulation lab. We’ll discuss her co-op experience, Bouvé’s innovative approach to teaching, and her favorite charity, In My Running Shoes. Give to Adrianne’s Boston Marathon Fundraiser for […]

A Career of Making a Difference feat. Bill Brown

Meet Bill Brown, CJ’93! Currently working as a history teacher and special education case manager at Timberlane Regional High School in Plaistow, New Hampshire, Brown has a long history with working with at-risk youths in Massachusetts and making a difference in their lives. We’ll discuss his interest in Northeastern’s criminal justice program, his experience working […]

From Co-op Position to Company Leader feat. Paul Palmisciano

Meet Paul Palmisciano, E’04! After participating in a co-op that was part of Boston’s Big Dig project, Paul took his second co-op at Bechtel Corporations—where he was hired full-time and still works to this day. We’ll talk about his co-op experiences, his projects and accomplishments at Bechtel, and his favorite career advice. 

Practicing for the Greater Good

When Olivia Orlando-Donovan, S’13, arrived on Northeastern’s Boston campus, she imagined herself going to medical school and becoming a doctor. It only took one chemistry course for her to alter this goal and redirect her plan toward law school and an eventual career working as a criminal prosecutor and now private litigator. After changing her […]

Supporting a New Era in Boston 

By Brianna Mitchell

“If I could have told myself in high school that I was going to work for the mayor of Boston, who is the first female mayor of Boston [and]….a mom whose kids go to the same school as mine…I don’t think I would have believed you. I try to remember that, and it does put […]

A Beam of Personal and Professional Inspiration feat. Tracy Fink

Tracy Fink, MBA'90 is a business coach, teacher and speaker who is passionate about showing people how to treat themselves as they would their best friend or client. She is the founder of The Tortoise Institute where she consults with companies and organizations to build awareness and leadership practices to boost individual and team effectiveness. 

Engineering Change at Google and Home   

Growing up in Bahrain, Fatema Janahi, E’22, MS’22, was always interested in environmental sustainability. Inspired by dialogues on reforming economies to be less dependent on the gas and oil industry, Janahi believed she would pursue environmental science in higher education—therefore it was a surprise when she joined her after-school robotics program. Despite not being enrolled […]

Making a Rare Impact  

By Brianna Mitchell

You may have seen their viral blush star in countless TikTok makeup tutorials, heard about their recent celebrity-studded benefit to raise money for mental health resources, or know the beauty brand’s founder, actress and singer Selena Gomez. As a social media and content assistant manager, Louise Dechelle, AMD’18, understands the gravity of working at Rare. […]

Inspiring Others Through Teaching Innovations feat. Jae Williams, EdD’22

Meet Jae Williams, EdD’22! Williams, who has a doctorate in education from Northeastern and currently serves as executive in residence for the Business of Creative Enterprises program at Emerson College, has ambitions to take an innovative approach to teaching and making education inclusive for all. Learn more about his award-winning doctoral thesis, teaching success stories, […]

Ascending the Company Ladder

“It’s a phenomenal education that you’re getting at Northeastern, says Nick Fanandakis, DMSB’79. This school is now thought to be one of the premier institutions that exists today, not only academically but also because of its second to none co-op program.” Hailing from a suburb, south of Boston, and now living in Pennsylvania, Fanandakis took […]

Using Passion to Create Opportunities feat. George Blitch

Meet George Blitch, SSH’01! George captures Northeastern’s entrepreneurial spirit—between starting his own publishing company to document Indigenous Elders, his own cartography company, and his own podcast, George has done it all. Learn more about how George’s Northeastern experience inspired him to forge his own paths in life. View the Transcript here Podcasthttps://www.sonofablitch.com/podcast.html Websitehttps://www.sonofablitch.com/

Bringing a Musical Light to the World feat. Howie Newman

Meet Howie Newman, S’73! After making his musical debut in 1973 at Northeastern, Howie spent the majority of his career as a professional baseball writer before transitioning to full-time musician. These days, you can find Howie touring around the country and playing his light-hearted at community centers, libraries, and for adults with developmental disabilities. Website […]

Live from New York, An Alumna Shines at NBCUniversal

Northeastern Alumna Antonia Sousa showcases the content creation skills she developed during her co-ops and College of Arts, Media and Design courses at NBCUniversal.  By Brianna Mitchell “Working in late night has been really exciting because I’m editing clips that go on social that very same day…it’s the most rewarding thing because you’re instantly seeing […]

Distilling a Positive Perspective

“Northeastern is going to prepare you to be the best you can be, and just by sheer numbers, somebody is going to be in a position where they’re going to be able to help you or you’re going to be able to help them,” says Dwayne Naitram, SSH’09. To Naitram, born and raised in Brockton, […]

Bringing a Worldly Presence to Recruiting feat. Frank Green ‘SSH 92

Meet Frank Green, SSH’92! After spending time working for an Irish senator during his time at Northeastern, Frank had a takeaway that would impact the rest of his career—the world is a big place with many different perspectives. Learn about Frank’s Northeastern and co-op experiences, his interest in the recruiting process, and why he is […]

Creating Magic Behind the Scenes at The Walt Disney Company 

Double Husky Ifteda Ahmed-Syed’s Northeastern journey helped her find her dream job as a software engineer at The Walt Disney Company.  By Brianna Mitchell “I like to joke that I was raised by films…so it was a childhood dream to at least be adjacent to storytelling and entertainment,” says Ifteda Ahmed-Syed, Khoury’20, MS’23. The Double […]

Co-op Perspectives Episode 1: The Co-op Experience

Meet Amelia Brooks, DMSB’26! In celebration of the 115th anniversary of Northeastern’s innovative co-op program, we sat down with Amelia Brooks to learn more about the co-op from the perspective of an enrolled student. We discussed how Northeastern prepares students for their co-ops, what she learned in each of her co-op positions, and how she […]

Striking a Professional Equilibrium Between Science and Fiction

“I still value everything that I learned at Northeastern,” says Nick Casbarro, BHS’14, while reminiscing about his time on the university’s Boston campus.

Passing the Co-op Torch feat. Ashita Chauhan

Meet Ashita Chauhan, CPS’19! While studying for her master’s in regulatory affairs, Ashita participated in a co-op that gave her the tools to succeed in her current role at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Learn about Ashita’s co-op experience, becoming a co-op mentor for undergraduate students, and introducing regulatory affairs to her home country.

A Lawyer’s Journey to Entrepreneurship feat. Brian Good

Meet Brian Good, MBA’10! The co-founder and CEO of iBorrow, a Los Angeles-based commercial real estate lending provider, Brian began his career in law before pivoting towards entrepreneurship. Learn more about obtaining his MBA at Northeastern, building your own business, and how AI will impact the future of real estate. View the transcript here Websitehttps://iborrow.com/

Delivering Good Vibes to the Corporate World  

Ali Singer, a 2012 graduate of the College of Arts, Media and Design, was a second-year student at Northeastern when her friend took her to a yoga class. Throughout that class, she felt the benefits of the practice—beyond just the physical ones.

Documenting a Full-Circle Moment feat. Christine Fitzpatrick, AMD’10

Meet Christine Fitzpatrick, AMD’10! Beginning her career in the entertainment industry as a co-op for National Geographic, Christine recently had a “full-circle” moment by releasing her latest project, “Protecting Paradise: The Story of Niue”, through NatGeo. Tune in to learn more about Christine’s exciting Northeastern experience! Stream Protecting Paradise: The Story of Niue on Hulu […]

Building a Career in Software Engineering with the Co-op

“I wanted a computer science program that is very solid in its foundation, very well-reputed, and at the same time, provides an excellent opportunity for getting a job,” says Dipanjan Haldar, MS’19, breaking down the criteria he used to select a master’s program. “Northeastern computer science is a top-rated program here in the United States, […]

New Career, New Act Feat. Jared Molton AMD ’10

Meet Jared Molton, AMD’10! After beginning his career as a professional magician and managing America’s oldest magic shop, Jared transitioned into the tech sphere and is now the vice president of consumer for Udacity. Learn more about his career transition, his favorite and most impactful class at Northeastern, and his memoir of his path from […]

Becoming Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

“My decision to pursue my Master of Science in human resource counseling with Northeastern, was driven by my interest in pursuing career advancement opportunities. I was working in human resources and recruiting at the time, and wanted to expand my knowledge” says Cheryl Haynes, MS’94 with a smile while reminiscing about her Northeastern experience. “It […]

Making a Nationwide Impact One Community at a Time feat. Cynthia Orofo

Meet Cynthia Orofo, BHS’19, Ph.D.’24! After starting Culture Care Collective while enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Northeastern, Cynthia has helped it grow to make an impact on surrounding communities in the Boston area—while garnering recognition as a Women Who Empower Innovator award winner and being named to the Boston Forbes 30 under 30 list. […]

Elevate Your Career Through Storytelling feat. Mari Andrade

Meet Mari Andrade, E’96! Mari has mastered the art of storytelling—learn about how her experiences at General Motors and the Olympic and Paralympic Games have shaped her current career as a messaging and storytelling strategist. Plus, learn tips for self-compassion and how to craft a compelling narrative for yourself! View the transcript here Linkedinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maribehr/

Creating a Worldview Through Physical Therapy

Dr. Patricia Sullivan’s, BHS’68 55-year international career in physical therapy began when she entered the undergraduate program at Bouvé in 1964. “My first two years of physical therapy education were in the Bouvé program at Tufts, before Bouvé joined Northeastern. The education that I subsequently received at Northeastern started me on a tremendous professional path.”  […]

Building a Business with Northeastern’s Tools feat. Sage Antonio

Meet Sage Antonio, AMD’27! The founder of Sageware Fashion, Sage is an ambassador for how Northeastern’s entrepreneurial resources can help you grow your business—learn about their Northeastern experience, growing a business, and the Sherman Venture Co-op. View the transcript here Instagram@Sagewarefashion WebsiteSageware.shop EtsySagewareFashion FaireSagewareFashion

Seizing the Power of the Northeastern Co-op

“I loved my time in Boston,” says Steven Summer, a 1972 graduate of the D’Amore-McKim School of Business, with a smile. “I mean, a lot of things drew me to Northeastern, notwithstanding the proximity and co-op program. At that point, Northeastern was much more focused on our careers and our work.” Summer, currently the president […]

Pioneering the Future of Shareholder Activism feat. Megan Reda

Meet Meagan Reda, SSH’08! Meagan is one of the top shareholder activism lawyers in the world—learn how her Northeastern internships guided her to career success, her upcoming panel at Harvard, and advice she has for current Northeastern students. View the transcript here

Reflections of a Career Entrepreneur feat. Steve Stroum

Meet Steve Stroum, DMSB’73! After a co-op experience that launched his career in sales, Steve started his own business—Venmark International. After helping clients succeed for over four decades, Steve embarked on his latest journey of providing tips for aspiring entrepreneurs in his new memoir “Success and Self-Discovery: A Business Memoir with Insightful Tips and Personal […]

Giving a Voice to the Voiceless

“I’m coming in from a totally different experience,” says Micki Berthelot Morency, DMSB’81 as she paints an intricate story of her life prior to enrolling at Northeastern and how that has shaped her worldview. “A Northeastern student is there to accomplish a goal…there will be obstacles and you just have to learn to jump over […]

Lights, Camera, Innovation feat. Catherine Argyople

Meet Catherine Argyrople, AMD’21! Catherine’s upcoming film, “Growing Pains”, premieres at the Boston International Film Festival on April 14. Learn about the inspiration for the film, her global Northeastern experience, and how Northeastern influenced her to become an independent filmmaker. Learn More about “Growing Pains” Instagram Website Get Tickets to the Boston International Film Festival […]

Benjamin Lanava

“He has demonstrated the core values of leadership, volunteerism, and academic integrity throughout the past four years and is a natural leader that knows what it means to give back and is empowered to be involved in activities that benefit others at Northeastern.” -Annalisa Onnis-Hayden, Teaching Professor and Vice Chair for CEE Undergraduate Studies, and […]

Graham Moitoso

“This is an exceptional case of a student capitalizing on all the resources and paths of study that Northeastern offers, to excel, but more importantly, identify a passion of study that goes on to make real world impact.” -Daniel Adams, Director, School of Architecture, and Sara Jensen Carr, Associate Director of Undergraduate Programs Coordinator, School […]

Ryan Westmoreland

“Ryan’s Northeastern story is both impressive and inspirational—precisely what it means to be a Northeastern University Husky. Hard-working, professional, high-achieving, passionate, [and] highly-successful.” What are some of your hobbies and interests? Spending time with my wife and kids. I also enjoy watching movies and listening to podcasts. I like helping to develop young athletes into […]

Josh Van Alfen

What are some of your hobbies and interests? [Some of my hobbies and interests are] running, theater (acting), music (violin), camping, and cognitive health research. What are some examples of your involvement in the Northeastern community and the community at large? [At Northeastern, I was involved in] the Student Philanthropy Council, a Resident Assistant, NU […]

Michelle Pang

“Michelle’s achievements inside and outside of the classroom represent some of the best that NU has to offer, making her an excellent candidate for the Compass Award.” -Todd M. Alessandri, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education, D’Amore-McKIm Business School What are some of your hobbies and interests? [My hobbies are] lifting weights and working out, cooking […]

Jenia Browne

“Jenia has the perseverance, initiative, creativity, and intellectual curiosity to be a fiercely positive force in the world.” -Layla D. Brown, Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology, Africana Studies, and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies What are some of your hobbies and interests? Academically and professionally, I enjoy researching and working with Black queer life, Black […]

James Chang-Davidson

“James has had an outsized impact on the Northeastern and Khoury community. He is always happy to volunteer for us to attend any event, serve on any panel, and talk to his fellow students about his experiences. We look forward to hearing of his exploits as an alumnus.” -Benjamin Hescott, Senior Associate Dean of Academic […]

Caro Aguilera Barraza

“Given Caro’s motivation with research and outreach excellence at Northeastern, I strongly believe that she makes significant advances in science and the world.” -Leila Deravi, Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Chemical Biology What are some of your hobbies and interests? I love reading, I’m a big bookworm, and my current favorite book is called “The Girl […]

Ashley Brown

“She is a fantastic asset to NU and I have absolutely no doubt that she will remain one of our highly involved alumni after graduation.” -Kirsten Fertuck, Biochemistry Director and Teaching Professor What are some of your hobbies and interests? I enjoy figure skating, watching figure skating, listening to a variety of music—from jazz to […]

Laurel Bellemore

“Laurel Bellemore embodies the values of leadership, volunteerism, academic integrity, and a deep-seated commitment to Northeastern and the broader community.” -Carmen Sceppa, Dean, Bouvé College of Health Sciences What are some of your hobbies and interests? One of the reasons I am so enamored with Boston is that it has so much to offer. In […]

Diana Turrieta

“[Diana] is an accomplished biochemistry researcher with an impressive academic record, but also a recognized champion of the underserved communities that she is passionate about, working tirelessly to improve NU’s resources and connections within these communities.” Kirsten Fertuck, Biochemistry Director and Teaching Professor What are some of your hobbies and interests? [My hobbies are] art, […]

From Farm, to Table, and to the Community

“I know that Northeastern has a quality of learning and care, from [the university and] your professors,” says Careen Turner, CPS’18 of Savannah, Georgia, by way of Owensboro, Kentucky. “You don’t get that everywhere, and they’re going to make sure that you understand the material. It’s going to make a lot of sense, and I […]

Using Wellness to Give Back to the Community feat. Ammy Lowney

Meet Ammy Lowney, SSH’05! A school teacher by day, Ammy moonlights as one of Boston’s most prolific entrepreneurs—the founder of the growing health cafe, JUICYGREENS. Learn more about her favorite Northeastern professors, her plans for expanding JUICYGREENS, and what it feels like to be a Women Who Empower Innovator award winner. View the transcript here […]

Shoot for the Stars, Land on the Moon feat. David Wyatt

Meet David Wyatt, E’88! The president of Wyatt Engineering, David has made a name for himself in his industry through his incredible accomplishments—his most recent being designing the flow meter that helped The Odysseus Lander touch ground on the moon.

The Bond of Two Huskies

“[Northeastern] gave us the perspective on why we do what we do,” says Jamie Riesenberg, S’22 as she sits next to her best friend, roommate, and fellow Husky Caroline Zagoren, S’22 in an apartment in Philadelphia and recalls her time at Northeastern.

How Do We Think Critically feat. Dave Hagen

Meet Professor Dave Hagen, CJ'80! An associate teaching professor for the College of Professional Studies, Dave wanted to return to give back to the Northeastern community by teaching at his alma mater.

Progress at the Right PACE

“To my students, I always like to talk about how impactful the Northeastern community was for me,” says Marie Ganim, Ph.D.’05. “I hope you’re able to appreciate the program that you’re in and I hope you’re able to appreciate Northeastern professors, because to me, it was very significant and impactful in my life…a lot of [my career] had to do with my Ph.D. [in public affairs] from Northeastern.”

Think Globally, Act Locally feat. Jack Lovett

Meet Jack Lovett, SSH’19, MPA’20! An office engineer for the City of Newton, Jack loves representing and helping constituents, as well as Northeastern’s young alumni and global community. Learn more from Jack about what your local government can do you for you, what it’s like to be a Young Alumni Advisory Board member, and why […]

A MOVE Towards Liberation

“I wanted to make a sidebar conversation a real conversation,” says Dr. Frederick Engram, Jr., CPS’19, with a passion only found in the DNA of changemakers. “I really wanted to have a coming together and tap on the shoulder, not just for Black people, but for my peers, my elders, and [those] on a journey toward anti-racism.

The Code to Financial Accessibility feat. Kojo Addaquay

Meet Kojo Addaquay, E’23! Currently working as a finance business systems analyst at Northeastern, Kojo has a history of working with the United Nations and his own fintech startup that aims to help farmers in Ghana finance their equipment. Learn about Kojo’s unique co-op experience, his techniques for self-discipline when learning a new skill, and […]

Proposals and Publicity

When Natalie Denyse, AMD’12, started up In Good Company Public Relations in 2015, she didn’t set out to create your typical marketing agency. As the company’s founder and director, Denyse and her team provide everything from business development council to content direction and social media strategies. The more interesting piece is that her clients exclusively […]

Branching Out: Beyond the Family Tree feat. Byron Hurt

Meet Byron Hurt, AMD'93! After starting his journalism career at The Patriot Ledger while at Northeastern, Byron transitioned to documentary filmmaking that focuses on hot-button topics.

Helping Huskies Plan for the Future

Since she was a teenager, Alissa Krasner Maizes, CJ’90, has been a fan and consistent reader of Kiplinger Personal Finance Magazine. This past October, every reader’s dream became a reality for her—she was published by the magazine highlighting her successful college saving strategies that paid for both of her sons’ Northeastern experiences while simultaneously allowing her and her husband to save for retirement.

Memories to Last a Lifetime

“I’m always looking around for pictures,” says Chelsea Matson, a 2011 graduate with degrees in Human Services and International Affairs. As the proprietor of her own photography business—capturing weddings, family sessions, brand photography sessions, and more—it comes as no surprise to hear that Matson has always viewed the world through a photographic lens. “With my […]

A Sweet Story of Entrepreneurship feat. Meghan Phan

Meet Meghan Phan, a graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities in 2022! While working toward her degree in philosophy, Meghan opened a bakery with her mother in 2018. Specializing in sweet treats, Vietnamese food, and coffee, Sweet Piglet Bakery offers something for everyone. Learn about starting a business as a student, balancing […]

Supporting Customers Through Passion and Care

It’s no secret that a cornerstone of the insurance industry is customer care. “In an industry like insurance where you are not selling something that is tangible to a customer, you are really selling the people and employees that we have…I’m super passionate about that piece of things” says Rachel Switchenko, MBA’15. Beginning her career […]

Network your NEXT Opportunity feat. Greg Lainas

Meet Greg Lainas, a graduate of the D'Amore-McKim School of Business in 1978! Greg had a long and prolific career as a CPA—working for industry giants like Robert Half and ESPN.

A More Sustainable Future for Girls Everywhere

Being at the head of a start-up wasn’t always in the cards for Ceylan Rowe, a 2003 graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities. Though she’s always been in the business of helping people

Bringing Communities Together One Cup at a Time feat. Martell Mason

Meet Martell Mason, a graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities in 2007! Beginning as a Starbucks barista while taking classes at Northeastern, Martell fell in love with the coffee industry.

Diversifying Your Portfolio One Property at a Time

“People that come in with the hesitations of owning a home and the problems that come with it,they come in with a different perspective,” says Vidhi Kankaria, a 2018 graduate of the College of Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities. Kankaria, who splits her time between India and New York, strives to […]

Kade Krichko Returns

Meet Kade Krichko, a graduate of the College of Arts, Media and Design in 2012! After graduating from Northeastern, Kade began pitching sports stories that touched on the human condition to media giants like the New York Times and ESPN. After building relationships in the industry and writing award-winning pieces, Kade now teaches a class […]

The Ride from Boston to Toronto feat. Rick Leary

Meet Rick Leary, a graduate of the D'Amore-McKim School of Business in 1989 and recipient of a Masters in Public Administration in 1992! Beginning his career in public transportation as a train attendant for Boston's famous Green Line, Rick ascended to becoming the chief operating officer of the MBTA in 2005.

The Intersection of Movement and Philosophy

What are the ethics of interaction? Is there a social responsibility that we must adhere to? What is the relationship between choreography and philosophy? These are the questions that Dr. Ilya Vidrin, a 2012 graduate of the College of Science, strives to answer using innovative interdisciplinary research and an artistic expression of physical interaction through dance.

Lights, Camera, Career: A Husky’s Journey to Hollywood

“Northeastern has helped me in a career sense,” says Isabelle Hahn, a 2020 graduate of the College of Arts, Media and Design. “I was also able to take courses at Northeastern that helped me with my creativity and my writing in a way that helps me now as a director

The Return of Rian Finnegan

Rian Finnegan, a 2011 graduate of the College of Arts, Media and Design, returns to the Northeastern Next podcast with two years worth of stories and accomplishments. Currently the Head of Employer Brand and Recruitment Marketing at Snap, Rian additionally runs the Little Loaf Bakeshop in Poughkeepsie, New York, a vegan bakery that moonlights as […]

A Tale of Two Huskies feat. Ioana Good & Bianca Vranceanu

Meet Ioana Good, a 2000 graduate from the College of Arts, Media, and Design and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, and Bianca Vranceanu, a 2022 graduate of the College of Arts, Media and Design!

Using Machine Learning to Invent and Innovate

“I felt honored when Northeastern University gave me admission,” says Pranshu Tiwari, a 2021 Master of Science in Operations Research graduate. “I never thought it would happen, and as a result, I think today I feel much more confident than I did five years ago.”

The Fabric of Entrepreneurship and Family Business

“Running a family business, there are a lot of challenges that come up on a day to day and week to week basis,” says Prasan Shah, a graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities and D’Amore-McKim School of Business in 2016.

Explore it! feat. David Fatula

Meet Dave Fatula, a 2001 D’Amore-McKim School of Business graduate and founder of a one-of-a-kind guided hiking business! After 20 years behind a desk, Dave gave up his career in the world of real estate finance to launch his own business and pursue his passion for the great outdoors.

“Anything Is Possible if you Will It”: A Regulatory Affairs Conversation feat. Dr. Nash Hernandez

Meet Dr. Nash Hernandez, GC’07, MSc’07, PhD’09! With a career spanning nearly three decades, Dr. Nash is currently a member of the board of directors for GloboScience, a pharmaceutical and medical technology consultancy. Focusing on rare diseases, gene therapy, cell therapy, and advanced tissue products, Dr. Nash has utilized his unique background of marketing and […]

Choreographing a Balance Between Ballet and Education

The College of Professional Studies offers options to take your courses online,” says Dawn Atkins, a 2020 graduate of the College of Professional Studies, with an elated tone and aura of passion equivalent to the one she holds for ballet.

Using Trade to Create a Global Experience

“[At Northeastern], you’re going to see yourself in others that you might not have before,” says Carmen Zelaya, a 2012 graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities with a degree in International Affairs. “You can see their world and you can see their perspectives. It’s through them that you are able to expose yourself to connections and experiences at Northeastern.”

A Triple Husky’s Co-op Journey feat. CJ Grasso

Meet CJ Grasso, B.A.’16, M.S.’17, MBA’22. CJ began his journey at Northeastern as a business major. However, during his first co-op at a small law firm, he realized the need for change and found a new passion in community resilience and homeland securit

Standing Up for Comedy feat. Elke Thoms

Meet Elke Thoms, a graduate of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities in 2018 and currently a stand-up comedian and writer based in Los Angeles. Elke's comedic journey began during her time at Northeastern after taking classes at Improv Boston, igniting a passion for the art of comedy

Using Sustainability to Create Healthy and Affordable Meals

“During my time at Northeastern, [my co-ops] did a lot of projects centered around reducing waste,” says Fry with a smile as he recalls his early university experiences. “[It] was a mechanism at Northeastern through which I practiced my environmental inclinations.”

The Spirit of Radio: The Story of Rush and Women in Media

Meet Donna Halper, College of English‘69, College of Community and Counseling‘70, and College of English‘73! A remarkable trailblazer in the world of radio and music, Donna made Northeastern history in 1968 as the first female DJ of WRBB. One of Donna’s most significant contributions came in the early 1970s when she played a vital role […]

Think Outside the Box(y) feat. Hannah Ung

Meet Hannah Ung, DMSB’23! The founder of one of Boston’s most innovative startup companies, Boxy, Hannah has been helping college students find storage through a host’s underutilized space since 2022. With the support of Northeastern’s entrepreneurial network, Hannah has grown Boxy through market research and building a rapport with customers in the area, all of […]

Compound Interest: The Eight Wonder of the World

Meet Mike Troxell, DMSB‘10, Principal and Founder of Modern Financial Planning. After working in finance and wealth management, Mike opened a financial planning business in 2018 that serves millennials and Gen X in the tech industry.

The Maddock Family’s Legacy

“We have a desire to support the younger generation. There are a lot of people who can’t go to a higher level of education because of funding. The future of Northeastern and the country is on the next generation coming up and what they can do,” says Bob Maddock, E‘72. “We meet with the recipients […]

Connecting Business and Nature

“You just have to open yourself up to the Northeastern experience,” says David Fatula, DMSB’01. “I tried to do as many things as I could at Northeastern…I did so many things that expanded my own understanding of myself, emotionally.

All the (Paris) Possibilities

A double-husky, Gina lives by the philosophy of to not just learn for school, but for life.

Donovan Holt

Donovan Holt would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He did that—literally—one night when an actor had become sick during a rehearsal of an NU theater performance. He filled in because “the show must go on”, and even cleaned up the mess afterward. That is the humble human being and leader he is.

Ren Birnholz

Ren Birnholz, who holds a 3.99 GPA and is in the Honors program, has a long list of accomplishments while they have been at Northeastern, and are a semi-finalist for the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Fellowship in India for the 2023-24 cycle. Ren has a combined major in cultural anthropology and theater.

Meera Whitson

Meera Whitson, who has a 3.97 GPA and is in the Honors program, is fascinated by the intersection of computer science and linguistics—her two major areas. Much of her academic work has involved connecting the two, including a project of a neural network that converts text to color and a research project on the potential applications of new artificial intelligence technologies.

Shandy Ndjigue (Alumni Relations)

A first-generation Cameroonian-American and honors student, Shandy Ndjigue, has made an indelible mark on Northeastern University. She is set to graduate in May with a B.S. in bioengineering and a minor in psychology.

John Ruggieri-Lam

John Ruggieri-Lam is already a professional, entering his 20th year as a principal dancer with the Boston Ballet. He is a filmmaker, choreographer, producer, actor, teacher, husband, and father who is juggling a demanding career while pursuing his Masters of Nonprofit Management degree at Northeastern. He is, in a word, amazing.

Maria Rengifo

A champion of the underserved, Maria Rengifo has worked tirelessly for Boston, Northeastern, and an indigenous community in Ecuador.

Nicole Page

Nicole Page shows it all—leadership, volunteerism, academic integrity, and commitment to Northeastern. Additionally, she shows an amazing level of entrepreneurism.

Kathryn Oliver

The world is Katie Oliver’s oyster, and she is the pearl. Katie, a cultural anthropology major with a 3.6 GPA, has consistently shown leadership, volunteerism, academic integrity, and global civic engagement since she began her Northeastern journey.

Jake Okrent

Don’t be surprised if in the not-too-distant future, the name “Jake Okrent” becomes synonymous with urban design.

Joe Blanchet

“Not one to shy away from a challenge, Joseph Blanchet has thoughtfully addressed and successfully accomplished everything presented to him during his time at Northeastern.” Those are the words of the BIOE Awards Committee for a December 2022 Northeastern graduate who has made countless contributions to the university’s community.

Kristine Aleksandrovica

Kristine Aleksandrovica wants to see a more sustainable world.

Exploring Perfectionism Firsthand

“I would certainly say I struggled with confidence and imposter syndrome. I felt I wasn’t smart enough, or pretty enough, but we are worth it, we are important, we are good enough, and that’s really what inspired me to write my book,” says Vanessa Bush, CPS ‘16. “It’s important, I think, to be open and […]

Championing Accessible Sustainability 

“We’re in a phase now where we have a better understanding of sustainability,” says Henry Palmer, DMSB’20. “[We] thought of it in binary terms, either we are or we aren’t. Living sustainably is a journey, and a path that we’re on. I’d rather 100 people make one change than one person make 100 changes.”

Shaping the Future of Education in Africa

February 21, 2023 - “I don’t believe in copy-paste solutions,” says Mohamed Kante, COE’12. “I believe that Africans, if you give them the opportunity to learn a skill, they will be able to pull together and do it."

A Triple Husky’s Journey

February 14, 2023 -“The reason I chose Northeastern as the place I wanted to come and pursue my education was to me it seemed there was a very big community and it was a community of support,” says Sade Iriah, BHS’16, ’19, ’23.

Crafting a Business Through Networking and Community Support

January 27, 2023-After years of consulting for some of the biggest business firms in Massachusetts, Ye Tian, DMSB’12, decided it was time to stray from the conventional path and forge his own way through the ever-changing world of business.

Rejuvenating the Workforce with Technology

January 11, 2023 - “It has captivated me for a long time how contributing to the evolution of the future of work changes people’s lives positively,” says Alp Uguray, CSS’16.

Using Education to Fight Misrepresentation

November 11, 2022 - “I always desired to pursue opportunities that interest me, do them to the best of my ability, then move once I felt that I had maximized the vertical progress within that particular entity.”

Becoming a Voice for Veterans Everywhere

November 11, 2022 - “It’s the difference between who do you want to carry you over the finish line—someone who has never worked hard for something or someone who will give you everything they’ve got to get the mission done."

Connecting Our World Through Numbers and Culture

November 11, 2022 - “Perspective is something that I have gained at both NEU and the USAF,” says Brad States, DMSB’23, of Charleston, South Carolina.

Helping Others Through the Power of Public Policy

November 11, 2022 - “To me, the fundamental ingredient associated with public service begins with a commitment to creating and sustaining lasting influences so that others who follow benefit from what you contributed to along the way,” says Jim McDonough, CPS’22.

Giving the Gift of Self-Care

October 25th, 2022 - “When I was initially diagnosed with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, I realized people in my life didn’t know what to say or do for me,” says Mallory Gothelf, COS’17. “But they tried, and it was often the moments and gestures that were seemingly insignificant that made a huge difference…[they] raised my spirits and reminded me that I mattered. I took inspiration from those gestures and coupled that with self-care products that empower people in their healing journey.”

Salary negotiation for remote jobs: What you need to know

June 6, 2022 - The rise of remote work creates new challenges for employers regarding their approaches on how to set salaries for employees in locations with different costs of living, while remaining competitive in attracting top talent. Candidates need to understand these approaches so they can negotiate the best offers.

Staying motivated in your job search

June 6, 2022 -Job searches require persistence and resilience as they can be a mix of success, and uncertainty. The process is similar to training for a 5k race or gardening as it takes sustained commitment and effort, or the patient work of planting seedlings and waiting for them to bear fruit.

Study Diaries

May 3, 2022 - As the clock strikes 5:30 am, Adebukola Ajao’s, MPS’20 alarm clock sounds initiating a stretch session and shower. By 6:45, she’s buckled up and on the road to her day job as a high school educator. Between the hours of 7:30 to 3:30 pm, Ajao helps students with their socio-emotional needs and postgrad life preparation.

Spicing up America’s Craft Brewing Scene

April 28, 2022 - When Van Sharma, SSH’11, MS’13 and his brother Sumit—a BU alum—moved from London to Portland, Maine in the '90s they stood out as the only Indian kids in school; today, the co-founders of ethnic beer brand, Rupee stand out as the few people of color within the craft brewing world.

Sarrah (Manisha) Asokumar, DMSB’22

Sarrah Asokumar, a first-generation college graduate, has proven that one can bring heart to auditing. Sarrah received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in December 2021 with a major in accounting and minors in leadership and human capital. “I am grateful to be able to graduate from college with high academic standing when neither […]

Anisa Amiji, BHS’22

How one student can accomplish so much in just a few short years is amazing. Anisa Amiji is amazing. On the Dean’s List with a 3.91 GPA, she will receive her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences. While at Northeastern, Anisa has proven to be a leader committed to both the university and the community. […]

Nicole Occidental, S’22

Nicole Occidental has a 4.0 GPA and is on track to receive her Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience in May with a minor in health, humanities, and society. Nicole says her favorite class—Writing to Heal—has influenced her future role as a physician-scientist and believes “that patients are more than just a bundle of cells […]

Lauren Herfindahl, CPS’22

It’s rare when a student starts college while actively engaging in a full-time career that started when she was three years old. Lauren Herfindahl is one of those rare young women. She has been a professional dancer with the Boston Ballet for most of her life and is now poised to graduate from the Northeastern […]

Khailah Griffin, DMSB’22

Khailah Griffin, the 2022 Wendy Breen Kline Award nominee in the D’Amore-McKim School of Business, grew up in a military family and lived in 10 different countries. This incredible experience gave her a global perspective and strong cultural competencies. It also taught her the importance of embracing diversity, which has influenced the way she lives […]

Yachi Christie Lee, SSH, S’22

A brilliant thinker, social justice leader and generous colleague – that’s how Professor Elizabeth Britt of the Department of English describes Yachi Christie Lee, who will graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science in English and Biology and a 3.95 GPA. Christie, who plans to attend law school at New York University to focus […]

Jack McKim, DMSB’22

Imbued with an entrepreneurial spirit, Jack McKim has made his mark on the Northeastern community. Jack will soon receive a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in Finance and Entrepreneurship and a minor in Consulting. Apart from his dedication to academics, which is reflected in his 3.88 GPA, Jack has embraced all that […]

Carrie Tam, E’22

During the height of the pandemic, most things shut down or tried to adjust to a “new normal.” Carrie Tam, a 2022 candidate for a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering & Architecture, instead forged ahead, convincing 30 undergrad students that they could design a net-zero energy building—producing a set of structural and architectural construction […]

Timothy Van Bloem, AMD’23

“I want to make the music industry a better place,” says Tim Van Bloem, a third-year student candidate of a Bachelor of Science in Music Industry with a 3.99 GPA, Dean’s Fellow, and Honors student. “I aspire to find the perfect intersection of technology, legislation, and creativity to improve the music industry for creators everywhere.” […]

Fiona McCrae, Khoury’22

“Fiona’s list of accomplishments is so long, and stretches back so far, that it makes me question how I spent my time in high school and college,” says Professor and Director of the BS in Cybersecurity program, Christo Wilson. In addition to having a 3.975 GPA, Fiona McCrae has made herself an invaluable asset to […]

Taranehv Tabib-Azar, AMD’22

The best journalists see things from multiple viewpoints and have limitless interests. Taraneh “Tara” Tabib-Azar has a head start, as she is also a photographer, performing artist (guitar, piano, bass, and banjo,) 3D visual artist, and activist with an interest in documentary filmmaking, harm reduction, and mutual aid. A candidate for a bachelor’s in Journalism […]

A Taste of Home

March 7, 2022 - Madena Mohamadi, SSH’13 got the idea to start JAHAN—an Afghan spice blend company—over the COVID-19 pandemic. “A beautiful part of my culture is food, “says Mohamadi, “and there is such a need for Afghan food in the market.”

Taking a seat at the boys’ table

March 4, 2022 - “A real man drives a truck, you know what I mean guys?” says a public official at The Department of Public Works for the city of Providence, Rhode Island, which services approximately 190,000 residents. Two high-ranking male DPW team members clarify they do not drive a truck, to which Maureen “Mo” McManus, AS’07 replies, “I do, sir,” which is met with great surprise.

Then and Now: The Women of Northeastern

March 4, 2022 - Take two minutes to explore decades of achievements by women at Northeastern!

A Survival Kit for Balancing Grad School and Full-time Work

March 2, 2022 - There is a tweet by James Clear, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, Atomic Habits that resonates with me as I reflect on my making a career change from strength and conditioning to computer science. It reads:

Go Remote with Your Resume

March 2, 2022 - Searching for hybrid or remote work, exclusively? Stand out in your candidacy by demonstrating your track record on paper and in interviews.

No, It’s Aadil

January 24, 2022 - On March 11, 2010, I was accepted to Northeastern University. Boston? In the fall? With the financial aid I would need to make it all possible? Less than a month later, I decided I wanted to go. All I could think about were the friends I would make, the clubs I would join, and all of the things I would learn about myself, my passions, and my challenges. All of that ended up being true, but there was so much more that I never anticipated.

Student Donor Spotlight: Megan Adams, SSH’22

January 10, 2022 - Megan Adams, SSH’22, has been described by her coach as the “ultimate team player.” She is the committed, hardworking, and selfless goalkeeper for the Northeastern women’s soccer team. Since making her collegiate debut in 2018, Megan has recorded countless saves for her team and was awarded CAA Defensive Player of the Week.

Student Donor Spotlight: Nicolas Maciel, E’22

January 10, 2022 - Nicolas Maciel, E’22, has always had a passion for engineering. Since beginning his academic career at Northeastern, he set out to immerse himself in learning the ins and outs of transportation engineering. Through multiple internships, co-ops, and extracurricular organizations, he’s done just that.

Who Runs the World? Girls!

January 6, 2022 - This Northeastern Next bonus episode is the culmination of five women’s quest to change the way the world perceives their strength. During her co-op in Northeastern’s Advancement division, student athlete and aspiring journalist, Madison Neuner, AMD’24 examines ways in which women own their right to influence social change for themselves and others.

Life after CAMD

January 5, 2022 - Slowly emerging into light breaking through the tunnels of the MBTA E line, Emilio Guido, AMD’20 finally rises to Northeastern’s main campus buildings and he feels like he has arrived; wherever it is, whatever he is supposed to be, Guido has made it to his destination.

IDEA: It’s a Family Affair

November 23, 2021 - ‘You are a product of your environment’ rings true for Aaisha, DMSB’23 and Abhishek Balakrishnan, DMSB’20 raised in the Middle East—a big start-up hub. At five, Aaisha was fascinated by the ability to elicit emotion through marketing. “My mom has a love for old ads and would show us case studies,” says Aaisha. When not learning from her mother—professor of international business and marketing, she was participating in end world hunger events with her father—human resources manager for Yum! Brands, Inc. “I was debating between international relations and international business,” says Aaisha, “but business is a tool that we can use to do good, which is why I went into it.”

Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in STEM

November 23, 2021 - Now, more than ever, organizations are becoming more intentional in their efforts to create diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces. Assistant Director for the West Coast and Cooperative Education Faculty for the College of Engineering in Seattle, Kelsey Kaul, EdD’22 is on a mission to guide STEM start-ups in their hiring process to increase representation of women and historically underrepresented groups. I sat down with Kaul to learn more about her research in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Staying Connected and Visible in the Virtual Office

November 23, 2021 - After nearly eight years of working at Northeastern, Meghan Brisson, MBA’18, joined LogMeIn –—a pioneer in work-from-anywhere software. This industry change was accompanied by another adjustment, a fully flexible setup. “I like knowing that my company trusts me to manage my time,” says Meghan. “I can decide on the best approach to my work, whether it’s from home, at the Boston office, or any place with internet connection.” From the comfort of her couch in a sunny living room, Meghan discussed her transition and shared advice for success.

Reflections from an Office Trailer in Boardman, Oregon

October 29, 2021 - As leaders think through a remote-centric approach to work, the traditional office structure is changing. But Jude Arbogast, E’19 isn’t setting up shop at a local café or spare room in an apartment. You may have read about Arbogast’s honorable involvement with The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)—from his inclusion in the 2019 New Faces of Civil Engineering in the College category, to his former role as President. Arbogast shares the inside scoop on memorable moments and lessons learned at Northeastern.

Traveling Globally and Inward

October 18, 2021 - Alex McCullough, AS’09 was reluctant to face his depression in high school, and silenced his mental health journey until it resurfaced in spring of 2009. “A weird aspect of our culture is that we stress that the way to fulfill your purpose in life is through your job,” says McCullough. “As I saw other friends getting jobs I wondered how I could be excited about what comes after college, and was left with a blank.”

A stroll down memory lane

October 12, 2021 - On a bronze plaque in the lobby of Ell Hall, Gamma Phi Kappa’s name appears proudly alongside many student organizations that contributed to the erection of the building. Founded as a local fraternity at Northeastern University in 1925 by Professor Stanley G. Estes and a dozen undergraduates, GPK’s spirit was born and firmly embedded in Boston’s and Northeastern’s history, its earliest members having attended classes at the YMCA.

Strategic References

August 12, 2021 - Supporters’ enthusiasm for your work can lead to an offer and reinforce the company’s decision to hire you over another candidate. The art of selecting and coaching references is as important as polishing your resume and practicing for an interview, so show some love for this key aspect of your candidacy!

The Changing Work World: Tips for Job Seekers and Managers

August 11, 2021 - Changes in the workplace have accelerated, particularly regarding remote work and diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) awareness and initiatives. To better understand these changes and their implications, we reached out to two alumnae for insights: Brie Reynolds, AS’04, a Career Development Manager at FlexJobs and Karina Barreto, DMSB’94, MBA’05, an experienced diversity, equity and inclusion leader.

Dr. Kimberly Washington

While TV medical dramas have ruled entertainment for decades, Dr. Washington, AS’05, was putting in the real work. She received her medical degree from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, and was the first Black woman to be admitted into the residency program. From a private practice in Texas to a prestigious surgery fellowship in Oregon, Dr. Washington is a lifelong learner, now specializing in liver and pancreatic procedures.

The Power of Self Mentoring

May 10, 2021 - Young, ambitious professionals are seeking to reach the top of their company, but are finding fewer mentoring opportunities than ever before. This definite lack of mentoring in modern business has only intensified during the pandemic. 

Working in Start-Ups: Insights from Alumni

May 5, 2021 - Start-ups are rooted in innovation—striving to fill product gaps, build something new, and grow rapidly. But the startup life is not for everyone! It requires a tenacious and scrappy spirit, hard work, a high-risk tolerance, and an ability to stay ahead of the curve.

A word from our volunteers

Northeastern alumni can be found around the world—there over 275,000 people who are connected by one global university. Every day our alumni volunteers give their time and talent to make the Northeastern network even stronger.  In this episode, Ilana Gensler, MA’19 Assistant Director of Affinity and Domestic Engagement will speak with a few of our […]

Lily Harris

April 1, 2021 - The five core values of nursing are human dignity, integrity, autonomy, altruism and social justice. Lily Harris, a senior in the five-year baccalaureate nursing program at Bouvé College of Health Sciences, takes them to heart—and she isn’t even a nurse yet.

Ari P. Zlota

April 1, 2021 - Ari Zlota is a much-lauded student in Northeastern’s College of Science. In addition to the Garnet Award, he received the Community Service Award in 2019 from the Center for Community Service and the Community Impact Award in 2020 from the Office of City and Community Engagement. That’s impressive—especially since he still has two years to go before he graduates.

Mohsen Alqunaie

March 24, 2021 - Graduating senior Mohsen Alqunaie, E’21, has always been active in Northeastern campus life. From community service to athletics, he does it all, making the most of his college experience and truly embodying the university spirit. He’s a member of the Hall Council, Triathlon Team, Class of 2021 Senior Year Experience Board, and Northeastern’s student chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Karen McManus

“The Breakfast Club with murder” is how Karen McManus, MA’04, describes her first novel, "One of Us is Lying." Now with four books published and more on the way, this New York Times Bestselling author has made writing her full-time career. Karen started in PR and Marketing, but realized it was never too late to make a switch. In this episode she shares how a familiar '80s song inspired her writing and gives updates on the forthcoming TV adaptation of her first book.

Manny Lubin and Josh Belinsky – Slate Milk

February 23, 2021 - Josh Belinsky, DMSB’18, and Manny Lubin, AMD’15, founded Slate Milk in 2018. In 2019, they successfully launched their natural, low sugar, high protein, lactose-free chocolate milks, and their sleek cans can be found in grocery stores across the country. In the early stages of building the company, they received help from IDEA and refined their branding with Scout. Read more about their story here. 

Henry Palmer – Lochtree

February 23, 2021 - In September 2019, Henry Palmer, DMSB'20, launched Lochtree, an online marketplace for eco-friendly products. Through Lochtree, Palmer strives to create meaningful change through sustainability and environmentally conscious behavior. The company is partnered with several initiatives to promote environmental care and create a lasting impact on the world.

Generate: Empowering Innovative Ventures

February 23, 2021 - Generate, operating under the Michael and Ann Sherman Center for Engineering Entrepreneurship Education, is Northeastern's student-led product development studio. Teams of students connect with clients to work together on engineering product development for early stage startups. Aimed at fostering entrepreneurial engineering on campus, the organization has partnered with clients to help build new technologies.

Managing your career during uncertainty

February 4, 2021 - While the start of a new year is a time of reflection and goal setting, COVID-19 means more uncertainty about what lies ahead. You may be facing unknowns in your personal and professional life, including unemployment, reduced work hours, working remotely and more. Here are some strategies for making progress towards your career goals and moving forward in a changing environment.

Cassie Choi

February 3, 2021 - During her third year at Northeastern, Cassie Choi’s nursing professor said “you’re not going to be a bedside nurse for long.” Much to her surprise, this turned out to come true. While working as a nurse for three and a half years, Cassie became intrigued by the business side of health care.

Miracle Olatunji

January 25, 2021 - An ambitious leader. An incredible mentor and friend. A true inspiration to her peers and community. Miracle Olatunji, DMSB’22 brings a positive attitude, generous outlook, and unmatched work ethic to everything she does.

Maria Oliveira

January 25, 2021 - A true people person and enthusiastic changemaker. With experiential learning in mind and an eagerness to get out of her comfort zone, Maria transferred to Northeastern as a third-year student. Here, she majors in psychology and minors in film production and behavioral neuroscience, blending her passions for critical research and cinema. An aspiring doctor, Maria has put countless hours into these interests and exploring how she can use them to better the lives of others.

Consistency, Passion, Structure: Keys to Building a Network

November 5, 2020 - In October 2020, a cohort of alumni took part in a unique 9-day experience called the “Reach Out Party.” Each day, the group met for half an hour at noon, to practice networking and discover the impact of sending a “reach out” message. Led by Molly Beck, DMSB’09 and Carly Valancy, participants gained practical advice and a helpful framework for networking, a skill that often feels daunting.

Career Design: Applying the Framework

November 3, 2020 - Now that we have discussed the 5-part career design framework, let’s look briefly at these aspects through the lens of early, mid, and late career transitions.

Career Design: The 5-Part Framework

November 3, 2020 - Traditionally, a career connoted a well-delineated ladder or track, but today most people can expect not only to pivot into multiple jobs over time, but also to switch between private, nonprofit, and government sectors or engage in entrepreneurship. Today, a “career” is no longer a noun or a predictable outcome. It’s a verb—the process of “careering” or pivoting to new opportunities as they arise.

Want to Make a Social Impact in Your Career?

August 11, 2020 - If you’ve been contemplating a career change to work that makes a social impact, there’s no time like the present. There are many potential roles in organizations that make a difference. Here are some ways to take action towards your goal:

Assessing Diversity and Inclusion

August 10, 2020 - There are many benefits to working in a company that supports diversity, equity and inclusion. Such organizations may be more empowering of the individual, deliver greater innovation, and be more financially successful.  When you interview as a candidate, you are assessing the role, expectations, the manager and organizational culture. Adding the diversity and inclusiveness of your potential future workplace to that list can enhance your career satisfaction and success.

Mary McQuillen

June 29, 2020 - While taking a Soul Cycle class in London, Mary McQuillen, DMSB'14 spotted a Northeastern zip-up among the sea of fellow cyclers. Little did she know that this sweatshirt served as an icebreaker for Mary to meet senior vice president for University Advancement, Diane MacGillivray and, ultimately, a catalyst to her role in supporting university programming through Alumni Relations. Mary raised her hand as a volunteer for the New York City community, where she continues to bridge conversations among new connections.

5 ways to remain resilient through crisis

May 12, 2020 - Recent weeks have been challenging for entrepreneurs. Countless founders have watched their revenue sources – their customers – shrivel up. I am completing my finance degree at Northeastern this year, as well as my time on the IDEA management team. During this time, I have been fortunate enough to spend a significant time with founders and supporters of the Northeastern and Boston entrepreneurial ecosystem, and based on those conversations, below are some tips I’ve picked up from them, about how to remain resilient during the COVID-19 crisis.

If you’re an entrepreneur, Northeastern is meant for you

May 6, 2020 - I’ve been an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. In fact, I started my first business at 15, selling juice and snacks at my school in Cape Town, South Africa. We learned early on that consumers needed to understand the nutrition content and ingredients of each product so it could match their dietary needs. Our snack and juice stand was eventually taken over by the school and continues to run today.

Ace the virtual interview

May 1, 2020 - Under the current quarantine, chances are that your next interview will likely be by videoconference. Hiring rules have not changed—the interview is still your only opportunity to make a great impression. So, how can you nail your next virtual interview? Here are some tips to enhance your presence and success.

Hear it from the experts

May 1, 2020 - We connected with some alumni career experts for tips on how they’re staying resilient and active during the current coronavirus quarantine – and how to start thinking about what’s next! Here are some of their tips.

Hacking the human brain

May 1, 2020 - If you had to deposit a check or transfer money for a bill, what would be the quickest option for you? Like many, you would probably unlock your smart phone, open a banking app, and do a quick transaction that will take you a minute or two. Just by that action of using your app rather than physically going to a bank, you are taking part in the fintech innovation that is transforming the financial world.

How volunteering can boost your career

April 27, 2020 - Volunteering is meaningful in its own right, but volunteer work can also play an important role in helping you achieve your career goals. It offers many opportunities for exploring new work, skill building, networking, enhancing your resume and more. Below are a few tips on how to be strategic in your choice of volunteering, and the ways it can enhance your career.

Distanced, but connected

April 24, 2020 - Physical distancing might limit our ability to meet in person during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that doesn't mean we can't strengthen our personal connections at a distance. Learn how two alumni found the power of their global network, even during times of social distancing.

Is your resume robot-proof?

April 10, 2020 - If you’ve recently applied for a job, the chances are that the company you applied to used an Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to review your application. Artificial Intelligence in hiring is prevalent among Fortune 500 companies that hire often and in large volumes. The software assists in finding candidates who are a perfect fit for the posted position and much more. Nearly 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS. If you’re about to start a job hunt, here are some tips to make sure your resume is robot-proof.

Two-way Learning: How Reverse Mentoring is Shaping Company Culture

April 9, 2020 - Until recently, reverse mentoring was seen as a way for younger employees to help senior managers become more technologically savvy. Today, reverse mentoring programs include shared learning among employees of different backgrounds. Now popular in many companies, including Paypal, Deutsche Bank, Target, PwC, Procter & Gamble, Mastercard, Cisco Systems, and

The Art of Giving Successful Feedback

April 9, 2020 - Can we talk? That’s the question most bosses don’t want to ask. Even though most employees thrive when they receive clear feedback, 69% of bosses and team leaders report being uncomfortable talking to their employees.

Resume Makeovers

April 9, 2020 - Recruiters spend less than a minute looking at resumes, so you don’t have long to catch their attention. Think of your resume as a written elevator pitch – you have 30 seconds to get on top of the pile. High pressure? Focus on these tips for polishing your resume to increase your likelihood of being noticed.

Making a Strong Start in Your New Job

April 9, 2020 - You’ve recently graduated and you’re officially employed. If you continued to work with your coop employer, you have the advantage of returning to a familiar environment, knowing what is expected of you and understanding the goals of the organization. For others, landing a new job can be like travelling to another town, state or even country. You have some idea of what it might be like but you won’t really know until you arrive on your first day. There is a great deal of advice out there about all the things you could and should do to make a good impression and hit the ground running. From my own experience of starting new jobs as well as onboarding new associates to the team, I see four key steps to help you make a strong start.

Is Burnout Preventable? 7 Strategies for Workplace Sustainability

April 9, 2020 - Today’s work environments are being called “modern hazards” within the “always-on” culture. We come in sick, stay up half the night ruminating over our long-to-do lists, eat lunch at our desks, and don’t use the vacation we earn because we dread falling behind.

How to Fit Your Full-Time Job Search Into Your Full-Time life

April 9, 2020 - “Looking for a job is like a full-time job!” says every job seeker eventually. Whether this expectation is present when going into the process or not, the amount of time and energy needed to land a new position is often still surprising.

Five Secrets to Success in the World of Professional Sports

April 9, 2020 - In high school, I attended a NBA Eastern Conference Finals Game in support of my hometown team, the New Jersey Nets. I fell in love with the energy of the entire arena and the fans. It was my favorite professional sports league, showcasing some of the most talented athletes in the world on a global platform. I remember looking at all of the people on the floor wearing credentials and I was so curious about their jobs. I knew immediately that I wanted to be part of a team that puts together a memorable experience for fans.

Cultural Competence – The Role of Soft Skills in Biotechnology Careers

April 8, 2020 - This May, MassBioEd, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization that supports science and biotechnology education, released its 2018 Job Trends Forecast for the Life Science Industry in Massachusetts, presented at the Life Science Workforce 2018 Conference, hosted at Northeastern University’s Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex (ISEC). The report highlighted another year of growth in the biotechnology sector, predicting approximately 12,000 new biotech jobs by 2023. But, interestingly, the conference also highlighted a large gap in the preparedness of the workforce – a lack of “cultural training” among new applicants.

Connect to Win: Success Strategies for Women in STEM

April 8, 2020 - “Too few women results in too many “Onlys”—women who are the only or one of the only women in the room— despite having higher ambitions to be promoted and become a top executive, they are 1.5 times more likely to think about leaving their job than women who are not Onlys.“ -McKinsey, Women in the Workplace Report 2018.

Sailaja Joshi

There are five times as many books about trucks than there are about any children of color. When Sailaja Joshi, DMSB’06 was searching for authentic and appropriate stories of Indian culture for her own children, she found a huge diversity gap in children’s literature. So, she decided to solve the problem, and launched Mango and Marigold Press, an award winning independent publishing house focusing on the South Asian experience.

Zipporah Osei

March 25, 2020 - During her freshman year, Zipporah Osei took a journalism class—Washington Beat: The First 100 Days—that set the tone for the reporter she hopes to be one day. When she enrolled in the class, she was doubtful of her preparedness. However, by listening to guest speakers and receiving encouragement to do reporting that was out of her comfort zone, Zipporah says, “I learned that I had the skills and the motivation to be a real reporter.” Now Zipporah, a first-generation college student, is preparing to graduate with a BA in Journalism and move to New York City to begin a one-year, highly competitive fellowship at ProPublica, the country’s premier investigative news site.

Gabriel García

March 25, 2020 - Without the support of faculty and staff, Gabriel "Gabe" García does not believe they could have achieved all they have to date—and that's a long list. Gabe holds a 3.7 GPA and will soon receive a Bachelor of Science in Politics, Philosophy and Economics with a concentration in Public and Economic Policy, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with a minor in Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies. That's a lot to take on, but Gabe has always managed, on top of being a student, at least one part-time job while remaining active in the Northeastern community in many ways.

5 tips for working remotely

March 23, 2020 - The nature of work is changing and a growing number of workers are opting for the flexibility to work from home. According to the FlexJobs and Global Workplace Analytics 2017 State of Telecommuting in the US Workforce survey, in 2017, “nine million U.S. employees, or 2.9% of the total U.S. workforce, work from home at least half of the time; up from 1.8 million in 2005. Employers are also starting to offer flexibility to work from home as a way to retain existing, and attract new talent.

Dayna Scandone

March 16, 2020 - After two co-ops at large corporations, Dayna Scandone, DMSB’17, decided to follow her passion and opted to join a small, Northeastern alumni-led start-up. Now, with the company growing, she’s coming back to the university to update her skills.

Perspectives from a new leader

January 28, 2020 - ‘Communication.’ ‘Harmony.’ ‘Relator.’ ‘Responsibility.’ These are a few themes from the Clifton Strengths Assessment that I’ve used to shape my identity as a young professional for years. But ‘Leader?’ Never.

Not getting interview calls? Here’s what you need to know

February 20, 2020 - Have you been diligently sending job applications, but not receiving any interview calls? You’re not alone.

Steve Leber

January 30, 2020 - Meet the man behind some of the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll history.

Qian Qian

January 30, 2020 - The first time Qian stepped onto the Northeastern campus, he felt like Harry Potter entering the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! He knew that the door to opportunities was now open, not only during his time on campus, but also beyond. After returning to Shanghai, Qian decided to share his Northeastern experience with other alumni and community members, playing a pivotal role in establishing Northeastern’s first communities in China: Beijing and Shanghai. From supporting alumni professionally, to giving them an opportunity to find their place in the community, Qian continues to serve as the perfect ambassador for Northeastern.

Mark Olivito

January 30, 2020 - After high school, Mark Olivito, DMSB’97, wasn’t excited about his future prospects, until a chance meeting with a recruiter sparked an interest in Northeastern. Intrigued by the co-op program, Mark applied and was accepted to Northeastern, where the robust entrepreneurial environment pushed him to stretch his limits, and discover his true potential.

Nick Beek

January 30, 2020 - If you meet Nick Beek, SSH’12, you will immediately see his passion for bringing communities together. Having served as an alumni mentor for Northeastern’s Co-op Mentor Program in Washington, DC for the past two years, Nick has already helped numerous Northeastern alumni make connections and find the resources they need to achieve what’s next. He is also the co-leader of the alumni community there. For Nick, Northeastern is truly a lifelong connection.

Lee Spinale Rea

January 30, 2020 - Lee Spinale Rea, UC’72, believes in living life to the fullest. This is why she transitioned from her 40-year-long career as a Senior Business Development executive in medical imaging, to owning a local Edible Arrangements franchise for the past 13 years. Lee believes that her Northeastern experience empowered her to reach goals beyond her expectations and personal limitations.

Joe Ciccolo

January 30, 2020 - As a career anti-money laundering expert, Joe knew the banking system, with its archaic technology and redundant processes, was due for an upgrade. So, when he heard about bitcoin – the decentralized cryptocurrency that’s traded digitally – unlike his colleagues, Joe saw opportunity. In a market thirsty for credibility, in 2015, Joe launched BitAML, a cryptocurrency compliance advisory firm that brings legitimacy to cryptocurrency transactions around the world.

Lexy Von Keszycki

January 30, 2020 - Lexy Von Keszycki, SSH’16, came to Northeastern for the co-op advantage: having real work experience, and a foot in the door. But during her time here, she got the opportunity to explore another passion – Brazil! Through three opportunities to travel to the country, Lexy was able to better understand the culture and professional environment, and commit to making Brazil her home. And, to make sure she didn’t miss her Northeastern connections, she became a volunteer and started bringing Northeastern to Brazil.

George Valiotis

January 30, 2020 - As a civil and environmental engineer, solutions come easily for George Valiotis, E’09. For years as a real-estate professional, George was exposed to the lack of options for recycling glass. Most recycling facilities in US use single-stream, where metals or plastics are processed in one bin. Since glass breaks easily, many facilities reject it, causing most glass to be wasted in landfills. George’s solution: Pace Glass Inc., the world largest exclusively glass recycling facility. The company takes what it can use, and incinerates the rest to produce energy that powers their facility.

Ravel Charles

January 30, 2020 - As a healthcare IT professional, Ravel was looking for ways to expand his skills. But, he wasn’t just looking for another degree; he was looking for a career. When Ravel came to Northeastern, he got just that: a master’s degree in Informatics, a co-op at System Analysis Services, LLC, an experiential consulting project through the Experiential Network (XN) program, and a new business, supported by the university’s venture accelerator, IDEA.

Sam Creighton

January 30, 2020 - While studying behavioral neuroscience, Sam joined the university’s a cappella group, The Nor'easters, as a hobby. That moment changed her life. From appearing in a popular TV show, distributed on Netflix and Hulu, to performing live at the White House for President Barack and Michele Obama, Sam’s career trajectory has taken a full U-turn. Today, she’s a professional recording artist with two singles released last year, and another on the way. Sam is not looking back!

Yemi Arunsi

January 30, 2020 - It was always clear to Double Husky, Yemi Arunsi, CPS’12, BHS’14, that he wanted to give back to his community; Northeastern helped him find his calling. From classes that challenged his limits, to professors who were vested in his future, to lifelong bonds he created through his Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Yemi credits Northeastern for the service-focused trajectory of his career.

Yuki Shuck

January 30, 2020 - Yuki Shuck knew that a Northeastern degree would set her apart academically, but when she graduated with two years of work experience, and a global network that extended to every corner of the world, she knew she had hit the jackpot. Connections and relationships are what made Yuki’s Northeastern experience unique, and after graduating and moving to Singapore, she knew she wanted to maintain that network. She became the Singapore Community leader, and has been sharing her passion for everything Northeastern with community members for the past three years.

Ayukta Thakur

January 30, 2020 - Few have the privilege of finding their passion, and making it a career. Ayukta Thakur, AMD’12, decided to volunteer at a government school for children with special needs after she moved to Dubai following her undergraduate degree at Northeastern. She immediately found an avenue for her skills, and became an educator and advocate for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). She knew she’d found her calling. In 2016, Ayukta co-founded Integreat Center for Young Adults with Special Needs, which is Dubai’s first center that exclusively caters to young adults, and utilizes a holistic approach to teaching life skills development and vocational training. She is also a Board Member for the 2019 Special Olympics UAE organizing committee.

Van Sharma

January 30, 2020 - A chance meeting with a fellow alumnus gave Van Sharma, SSH’11, CPS’13, the boost he needed to formalize an idea that's disrupting an industry in Central London.