Three graduating seniors are preparing to trade in their hectic college schedules for the next chapter of their lives.
While their plans diverge in different directions, seniors Magda Hernandez, Samantha O’Hara-Arrington and Tevin Asamoah share a common excitement: the chance to pursue their passions and leave behind the grind of student life.
Hernandez, management major, is ready to start a career in her chosen field. While she hasn’t decided where to work yet, she is confident in her ability to succeed.
“I’ve spent four years learning the ins and outs of HR,” Hernandez said. “I’m confident in my abilities and knowledge, so I think finding a job will be easy.”
Hernandez mentioned her goal is to help others through her work, whether it’s resolving employee complaints or connecting people to useful resources.
“I want to help people. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s day, even in small ways, makes this career fulfilling,” Hernandez said.
She has one caveat: retail HR is off the table.
“That’s the one area I can’t see myself in,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez credited her college experience with teaching her the importance of communication and professional writing.
“Learning how to express myself clearly was the biggest takeaway for me,” Hernandez said.
O’Hara-Arrington, biology major, is pursuing further education to prepare for her dream job in forensic science. She’s applying to Washburn University’s medical laboratory science program, which begins in May and is eager to use her skills in a professional lab setting.
“I’ve always wanted to work in a forensics lab,” O’Hara-Arrington said. “Graduating is a major accomplishment in itself, but getting closer to that goal feels even better.”
Her college years were filled with challenges, from public speaking assignments to intensive lab work, but she said those experiences made her stronger.
“I’ve learned how to break down complex scientific concepts and explain them to anyone, which is crucial in forensics,” O’Hara-Arrington said. “Doing so many labs and research projects has been invaluable. I think it’s given me a hand up on the competition.”
Looking ahead, O’Hara-Arrington is thrilled to shift from classroom experiments to real-world applications.
“I can’t wait to leave behind the late-night study sessions and start doing what I’m truly passionate about,” O’Hara-Arrington said.
Asamoah, a double major in philosophy and biology, is veering off his original path to medical school. Instead, he’s preparing for a career in financial security, a field he believes is essential for everyone.
“I’ve always been interested in how people manage risk,” Asamoah said. “If you can afford it, share it or transfer it, then you’re safe. Financial security is a staple of life, no matter who you are.”
Asamoah recently completed several licenses and training programs to prepare for this career. After multiple interviews, he has an offer from New York Life Insurance Company as a representative, which he is strongly considering.
His approach to the transition is pragmatic.
“I’m keeping my hopes low,” Asamoah said. “Everything I go through will teach me something. I don’t want an easy experience; I want one that helps me grow.”
While he admits the shift from studying philosophy and biology to finance might seem unexpected, Asamoah sees it as a natural fit.
“I’ve always worked with numbers, and now I’m ready to turn that into a full-time career,” Asamoah said. “I’m excited to leave the grind of college behind and focus on building something meaningful.”
Despite their different paths, all three seniors are looking forward to life beyond the classroom. For Hernandez, O’Hara-Arrington and Asamoah, graduation represents the start of something new, exciting and closer to their passions.
Edited by Jayme Thompson and Morgan Albrecht