1. What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
Interestingly enough, the most challenging aspect of my job and the most rewarding are the same: the fast-paced environment. As technology advances so does the production of data, and reviewing, analyzing, and making decisions based on that data must be completed in a short amount of time. While it is extremely challenging due to the volume and velocity of information I receive on a daily basis, I’m energized by the challenge of balancing the workload. No two days are the same in my job.
2. Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
Mark Zuckerberg. Facebook created a new way to network and communicate, and his innovative thinking inspires me. Recently, I’ve been impressed by his generosity and I think that he’s a great role model for young professionals.
3. What has been the high point of your career so far?
The high point of my career so far has been my move to Madison and starting my career at First Business. I’m both challenged and inspired in my role as vice president of deposit operations. I enjoy a fast-paced environment and my focus on constant improvement aligns with the needs of my role at First Business.
4. Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Be patient. I remember being 21 and impatient with my career advancement. I was eager to learn everything I could about the role that I was in and to find ways to advance. If I were to do it all over again I would continue to focus on learning new things and focus less on career progression. It takes time to prove yourself and once you do, the advancement will happen.
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5. What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
The bike trails! On summer weekends I like to explore new bike trails throughout the city and beyond. My favorite so far is the Ice Age Trail.
6. Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I love to bake. I seek out challenging dessert recipes and make the recipe over and over again until I perfect it. My most recent “wow” dessert is a chocolate-espresso dacquoise (meringue layered with espresso butter cream and chocolate ganache).
7. What are your guilty pleasures?
Binge watching favorite TV shows. Once I start a new series on Netflix or Hulu, I can’t stop. Earlier this year I stayed up until 3 a.m. watching episodes of True Blood because I couldn’t stop watching.
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