Eliza Kinnealey ’15, who’s pursuing a degree in international relations wasn’t sure which direction she’d take in life once she graduates from Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences in 2015. But, after returning from the ninth annual Winston Fisher Seminar, Kinnealey says she feels more at ease about life after college.

1. Why did you apply to participate in the Winston Fisher Seminar?

I applied to participate in this seminar because I was really at a loss about how I wanted to use my International Relations major after graduation. I truly felt alone in my situation, that I was the only one who didn’t know what direction to go, but hearing about Winston Fisher’s experience really put me at ease. Realizing that I am not alone in this process was extremely reassuring and I would have regretted not taking advantage of this amazing opportunity.

2. What was the most rewarding part about participating in the Winston Fisher Seminar?

The most rewarding part of this seminar was hearing the success stories of other Arts and Sciences alumnae. Their advice and wisdom was truly invaluable, and knowing that they went through similar situations was very encouraging.

3. What one or two things did you learn that you think will most positively impact your academic career and post- collegiate career?

I learned that that skills we gain through our Arts and Sciences education really is what employers look for when they are hiring. Knowing that our critical thinking skills, analytical skills, ability to problem solve and communicate are desirable in the business world, I will strive to strengthen these skills in my remaining year at Syracuse and even after graduation.

4. What was your favorite part of the entire experience?

Meeting the other Winston Fisher participants was one of my favorite experiences. Seeing how driven and accomplished these students are was truly inspiring. I cannot wait to see what our future holds because I have no doubt my fellow Winston Fisher students will do amazing things.

5. Did participating in the Winston Fisher Seminar give you a clearer picture of what you’d like to do after college? Or did it confirm that your intended career path is the correct one?

After participating in WFS, I am still not entirely sure what I would like to do after college. However, it did open my eyes to the endless possibilities that I have. I am no longer stuck in one career path; I can go in any direction I desire with the skills I have gained through my Arts and Sciences education.

6. Why do you think a liberal arts education is not only important but valuable in the business world?

Like mentioned earlier, there are skills that Arts and Sciences students learn – that other those in other colleges might not learn- which are crucial in the business world. We know how to communicate, problem solve through critical thinking, draw from different points of views and many other proficiencies. These abilities are invaluable to the business world because it isn’t just being a finance or accounting major, there is more to it than numbers.