The Davidsonian

Issue date: 5/2/07 Section: Arts & Living

Ryan Creighan '07, Darcie Draudt '07 and Andy Agcaoili '07 get their first taste of freedom and a feel for their gowns at convoccation this past Wednesday.

"Do you know what you're doing after graduation?" College seniors across the nation have grappled all year with this question, with some still scrambling to find an answer in the semester's final days. Seniors at Davidson are no exception, though many have avoided the last -minute rush by securing a job or place in a post-secondary educational institute; other students have chosen more temporary positions that they hope to use as a springboard into a more promising career path or toward obtaining an additional degree.

Meghan Qualey '07 will be working as the Program Director of Camp Wayfarer in Flat Rock, Nc, for the summer.
"That's about as far as I have gotten for sure," Qualey said. She hopes eventually to obtain a master's degree in Outdoor Education.

Qualey's path is similar to that of many recent college graduates who have postponed additional schooling in order to gain "real world" experience in their chosen field.

"Ultimately, I have this crazy dream of starting a program in an inner-city community that would teach outdoor skills such as camping, rock climbing, canoeing and kayaking to kids," she added.

Biology major Kelly Dresser '07, who will be doing research at MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, Tx, is also taking the temporary job route.

"I needed to do something for a year that would help me get into Physician's Assistant school," Dresser said. She chose the job because she believes that it will be a good experience and will draw heavily upon her background in science.

Dresser also chose the position in order to return home and be closer to family, which is one of the considerations that many seniors take into account when making post-graduation plans.

Francisco Morales '07 considered familiarity and a friendly working environment to be key factors when it came time to make his plans. Morales will be working next year as a fellow for the Annual Fund, which comprises gifts and scholarships that compose nearly 10% of the College's operating budget.

"By obtaining a job in a community that I'm acquainted with, it will be a smoother transition into the real world," Morales said. He also said that he is drawn to the mission of the Annual Fund and the office staff.

Continued...

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