Our Graduates: Suzy Fritz

When I asked for a few words from our graduates about their time here, Suzy was kind enough to write this lovely response, which I encourage everyone to read. Thank you so much for everything Suzy. We will miss you, but we are also looking forward to you conquering the Big Apple!

"Graduating is very intimidating, but I feel ready to move on and am excited for the changes to come. I studied marketing and professional sales in Kelley over the last 4 years, and my favorite class was my Advertising class, taught by Ann Bastianelli; non-Kelley majors can take this class and everyone should!! I also enjoyed my Compass classes and any classes that taught me about the concept of self-awareness and the psychology behind marketing. I am a nerd about understanding people and why they do the things they do. 

Creative marketing is where my strengths lie, and I am excited to begin working full-time with Macy's in June as a participant in their NYC Executive Development Program. After my initial program, I will be placed into one of the hundreds of Macy's product categories and most likely be in charge of the web design, layout, merchandising, and sales for that particular category. Many exciting initiatives are happening at Macy's and I am intrigued by the opportunity to creatively problem solve while there. I am most likely moving to the lower east side in Manhattan, but I will not know my exact location until just a few weeks before I start because that's how crazy the NYC housing market is! 

I am definitely graduating as a different person than I was when I moved into Foster Jenkinson 4 years ago. Attending Kelley taught me that being different is much more interesting than trying to be like others- people (and employers) notice your authenticity and confidence. Going abroad taught me that at the end of the day you cannot be happy in life unless you are happy and proud of who you are; having an experience that makes you realize your potential and independence is life changing. Being in a sorority taught me that everyone has a story and we are all stronger together. Being a member of the IUDM morale committee taught me that using positivity, craziness, and energy to uplift others is an underestimated strength. Everyone has the power to do something they never thought they could- whether you are a small child, a world-class surgeon, or a passionate college student.

Lastly, working at the BUSP library for the last four years taught me that real leadership is uplifting others- not lecturing them. I've had the best bosses I have ever had here and feel welcomed and valued every time I walk in the door. I work with a diverse group of students who love meeting others and making people smile. The spea lib is my home base on campus: whether I need to decompress in the back room, heat up some lunch, get some of Matt's cookies, or laugh at the quote board, I have always had a space to go on campus that feels like home. I hope that in my future job, I can love what I do and spread positivity to the extent that our management does here. 

My advice is to get involved on campus, try out a leadership position, push yourself to take risks, use your campus resources, and do not believe someone who says you cannot do something. 

Also (and possibly more importantly), Rod Tuffcurls at the Bluebird is always a good idea, Roy's cover sucks but nothing beats the patio on a sunny Friday After Class, Esan has the best pad thai in town, and Yogi's bingo night is a necessity. 

Everyone better say hi before I leave and please please know if you ever have questions you can always reach out!!

With love from a nostalgic senior,

Suzy Fritz"