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Staff Spotlight | Valerie Schoonover

Title: Assistant Director, Employer Strategy

Department: Northwestern Career Advancement

Where are you from? Golden Valley, Minnesota

What brought you to Student Affairs?
I had been working in a different role at Northwestern, and I wanted to join a collaborative team focused on career services for students. I was drawn to my position because it me to work with so many different people, all focused on a common goal of helping students find fulfilling careers.

How many years have you worked in Student Affairs at Northwestern?  2

What’s your favorite part about working in Student Affairs?
I love the spirit of innovation and creativity in this field. Everyone is willing to try new ideas, and encourage you to succeed.

What recommendation(s) do you have for someone new to Student Affairs?
When I first started in Student Affairs, I didn’t realize all the nuance and different paths there are within this kind of work. Everyone has strong passion fueling their respective work. Make a goal to learn about all the offices, and to connect with colleagues across the division.

Who or what has had the greatest influence on your career?
My own college academic and career advisors at DePaul were my inspiration to look for work in higher education. They made an impact just by listening to me in my highest and lowest moments. When it was time to graduate, I wanted to work in a field that could also impact young peoples’ lives.

What inspires you?
Student activists like those on our campus, and the students from Parkland, Florida who created March for our Lives.

What can’t you live without?
Parmigiano reggiano, the Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat cookbook, and political memoirs, and Shonda Rhimes.

How do you like to spend your free time?
Walking, running, and biking. Researching and testing new recipes. Volunteering. Reading. Watching Top Chef.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
The rocks on the lake front.

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