Honors Alumni Mentoring Program

The Honors Alumni Mentoring Program (AMP) fosters meaningful professional relationships between current Honors juniors and seniors and Honors alumni interested in sharing professional advice with students in fields related to their own. Students and mentors connect with each other monthly via email, phone, video call, or even in person, as circumstances allow. The Honors Program facilitates and focuses these student-mentor partnerships by providing students with specific questions, guidelines, and monthly tasks to complete with their mentors. The topics of the monthly check-ins range from creating a resume to building a professional network, from interviewing effectively to using social media professionally.

Completion of the AMP results in 3 Honors points; students who have previously completed the program may repeat it a second time for an additional 1.5 points

Please see the below list of our accomplished alumni mentors (organized by the college from which they graduated), including information about their USU experience, current field of work, and interests.

Applications for 2025-2026 are now closed.

2025-2026 Alumni Mentors 

Michelle Allgood (2012) Political Science

I am an assistant professor at the University of Wyoming. My research focuses on public management, employee well-being, and disability policy. My research is centered on local government work and strives to improve the experience for employees and community members. I have previous experience in student affairs, educational access and equity initiatives, community engagement, and instructional design. I would best mentor individuals seeking to go to graduate school, first-generation students, students interested in education access/equity work, and individuals interested in community engagement or student affairs. I have published in top journals and am willing to bring on students interested in public management research and/or social equity focused work.

 

Melissa Bowles-Terry (2004, 2007) English

I am a professor and library liaison to the College of Sciences at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I am the former Director of the Faculty Center at UNLV, where I coordinated programming to support faculty teaching, research, and career development. I also previously served as Head of Educational Initiatives at UNLV Libraries. I earned a master's degree in Library and Information Science at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Arts in English at Utah State University. My research interests include the impact of libraries on student success, assessment of student learning, and information literacy instruction. I am the co-author of Classroom Assessment Techniques for Librarians, published by ACRL in 2015. I am a member of the Association of College and Research Libraries Immersion faculty, a national training program for librarians who teach and assess student learning. I'd be delighted to mentor a student who might be interested in library and information science, or someone interested in being in an administrative role at a university.

 

Jennifer Bowman (1997) English

I have worked in the aerospace industry for twenty years and am currently a program manager in the Strategic and Military Systems division of the Space Dynamics Lab. Previous to this, I worked at Northrop Grumman and predecessor companies in strategic communications, operations and new business capture and proposal management. I hold an undergraduate degree in English from Utah State University and a Master of Fine Arts in writing from the University of Pittsburgh. I am most suited to mentor a liberal arts major who is considering multiple future paths or is unsure what paths might be open to them, or an engineering, science or business major with interests in aerospace.

 

Rebecca Bruso (2005, 2016) Liberal Arts, Communication Disorders

I loved my time at Utah State as a President’s Ambassador and Honors student. My internship in the U.S. Senate was life changing and opened my eyes to the political realm. After five years in the Utah Governor’s office, my family moved to Asia and I later received my master’s degree in speech-language pathology. I could best mentor an international student or a domestic student who is interested in history, political science, a medical field, or early childhood education.

This Honors alum is also listed under the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services.

 

Michael Buhler (2011) Mathematics Education

I am currently a high school mathematics teacher in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Prior to that, I was a high school and middle school math and Spanish teacher in Tekonsha, Michigan for four years, a dual credit college algebra teacher at Northwest Nazarene University for two years, and an online math instructor for BYU-Idaho for two years. I am a Woodrow Wilson National Teaching Fellow. I would be best suited to mentoring education, Spanish education, or social studies education majors.

 

Jeff Carr (2009) English

I have been fortunate enough to do many interesting things with my English degree from USU. Immediately after graduation, I worked on campus writing ads and magazine articles for the PR & Marketing Office, then got an M.A. in Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies from Stanford University, wrote for a newspaper in the Bay Area, worked in a research center at Stanford as a program and publication coordinator, and then became an analyst for the CIA focused on that part of the world. I did that for four years and had incredible experiences at home and abroad. I then moved home to work at the Museum of Idaho, where I started as the PR Director, focusing on communications in traditional and social media advertising. I am now the director of the museum and get to do all sorts of cool stuff—and it's all been possible thanks to the Honors education in writing, language, and communication I received at USU. I would be happy to mentor any liberal arts major (especially English) who is wondering about different types of jobs. Additionally, I would be a good fit for any student interested in intelligence and foreign affairs.

 

Katlyn Casagrande (2013) Anthropology

After graduating from USU, I went on to earn my master's (2020) and Ph.D. (2024) in criminal justice from Texas State University. During my graduate studies, I worked on an interdisciplinary research team evaluating a school resource officer training program, served as managing editor for the Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, taught undergraduate classes, worked with law enforcement in K9 human remains recovery training, and finally, worked with the Austin (TX) police department on the implementation of a violence intervention program. In August 2024, I joined the faculty at Colorado Mesa University as an assistant professor of criminal justice. Starting this August (2025), I am joining the USU faculty as an assistant professor of criminal justice based at the Tooele campus. My research has focused on mental health within the correctional system, as well as projects within forensics and policing. I would love to mentor a female-identifying or non-binary student. I think it is important for female students to have the opportunity to be mentored by women within their field who can speak to that unique experience. As my academic background is in the social sciences, specifically anthropology, sociology, and criminology/criminal justice, I would be happy to mentor a student within any of those fields, but I am also open to mentoring students outside of those fields who desire to work within academia as many intricacies of the academic profession are not field-specific.

 

Savannah Daines (2021) Human Biology

I am a public health PhD student at the University of Utah and an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science at USU. I am also the executive director of the International Health and Early Learning Programs (iHELP) Foundation and one of the directors at Athletics United, a nonprofit that fosters community among refugee and immigrant youth through sports and education. My research and community engagement work focus on various nutrition-related topics, leveraging synergies in medicine and public health, and sustainable community capacity development. I am best suited to mentor students interested in public health, medicine, or nonprofit work.

 

Dawn Dimmick (2020) Religious Studies, International Studies

I currently work as an active-duty Army chaplain at Fort Carson, CO. My role is to perform and provide religious support for soldiers and their families. I advise commanders on ethics, morals, morale, and religion, and provide pastoral counseling for soldiers facing life challenges. I have some experience working in the nonprofit sector, and am mostly passionate about interfaith work, community engagement, women's history/issues, and writing. I feel best suited to mentor students who are trying to discern where their interests intersect. I also feel like I could be of help to those interested in caregiving professions, the military, or the world of religious studies.

 

Kade Downs (2014) Psychology, Spanish

I grew up on a small farm in Utah. I was the first in my family to graduate from college and attend graduate school. Before I went to grad school I coached football and lacrosse and volunteered with the Best Buddies chapter at USU. I am currently a bilingual (English, Spanish) school psychologist at a high school near Salt Lake City, Utah. I finished my PhD in 2024 and have some mentorship (USU Honors), teaching (undergraduate cognition), research (behavior, narratives, language), and group supervision (APPIC interns) experience. I plan to work in an academic position in the future. Until then, one of the things I enjoy most at the high school is running psychotherapy groups for students who recently immigrated to the United States and building community and mentorship at feeder schools. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of the USU Honors Alumni program for a couple years and I’ve enjoyed working with some bright students whose interests have included things like audiology and music therapy. It’s been interesting to learn about all the ways our skills and interests can align; for example, I don’t have formal training in audiology or music therapy, but I do in language and therapeutic, school-based interventions—making for some creative and enlightening conversations from which both the students and I gained something new. Whether you know exactly what you want to do in the future or you’re creating your plan now, I’d be happy to work with you. However, I remind you that the more specific your plan is the more important fit with a mentor will be.

This Honors alum is also listed under the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services.

 

Aubrey Felty (2022) BFA Theatre Education

I am an arts educator, administrator, and wearer of many hats. I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Education and a minor in Family and Human Development, with honors, from Utah State University in 2022. There, I was named the University Talent of the Year and Caine College of the Arts Scholar of the Year two years in a row. Upon graduation, I completed a teaching artist fellowship at Metro Theater Company in St. Louis, MO. Currently, I serve as the Education & Engagement Program Coordinator at Texas Performing Arts at The University of Texas at Austin. In this role, I work to create and expand opportunities for patrons young and young at heart to engage with the arts on and off the stage. I feel suited to mentor a student who is interested in working in the arts. I specialize in arts education and administration and can provide guidance in navigating this field. I have also participated in three early career internship/apprenticeship types of programs after college and can offer advice about those experiences and where to look for those opportunities. I had a lot of interests and was open to many different types of jobs coming out of college, so I would be happy to help a student who is similar in that regard. I work at a presenting house that books a wide range of performances from concerts and comedians to touring Broadway productions and international music, theatre, and dance. If any of that sounds interesting to a student, I could be a good fit!

 

Joshua Hansen (2018) Human Biology

I was born in Logan, Utah, and raised in Pocatello, Idaho. I completed undergraduate studies at Utah State University, graduating magna cum laude with university and departmental honors in Biology with minors in chemistry and Portuguese. Thereafter, I commissioned in the United States Army and attended America's Medical School, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS). I was inducted as a junior member of Alpha Omega Alpha and was awarded a distinguished academic performance award and an honorable mention for the Emma L. Bockman memorial award. I published six peer-reviewed manuscripts during the course of medical school. I am now in my PGY4 year at the collaborative military-civilian orthopedic surgery program between William Beaumont Army Medical Center and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center of El Paso. I am best suited to mentor a student interested in the health professions or a career with the United States military.

 

Erica Hawvermale (2017) Cultural Anthropology

I am an Evaluation Associate at Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). Through my work, I conduct program evaluations for military-serving non-profits so they can have insights into how to better serve their beneficiaries. In addition to my work at the IVMF, I've conducted research in a broad range of fields including religious diversity/tolerance, gender roles, psychological sense of community, and accessibility. I also previously worked as a researcher at Aperio Insights, where I conducted evaluations of programs, products, and services for a wide range of clients. In addition to my paid work, I have provided volunteer program evaluation services to United Through Reading and Our Military Kids, and my work has helped inform the strategic plans for both organizations. At USU I majored in Cultural Anthropology (music minor), and I went on to earn a master's degree in Applied Anthropology from the University of North Texas. I am best suited to mentor students in the social sciences (anthropology, sociology, etc.) and those interested in research as a career, regardless of their major. I have a lot of experience in how to transfer soft skills learned in the university setting to job applications, how to market yourself in your career, and how to build a portfolio of experiences (internships, research projects, pro-bono work, etc.) that promotes networking and career development. If a student is concerned about how to transfer what their learning in at USU and their experience to their career post-graduation, I feel I would also be a good match.

 

Grant Holyoak (2016) Sociology, Economics

I became a U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officer in April 2019, and have since served as a Vice Consul at the U.S. embassies in Beijing and San Salvador. Before beginning work at the State Department, I worked for the U.S. federal government in several capacities including at the Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Government Accountability Office. After graduating from USU, I received a Master's in Public Policy from George Washington University in December 2018. My professional interests include immigration/refugee issues and U.S. foreign relations with Latin America and the People's Republic of China. My experience could be particularly helpful for students who are considering careers in the federal government or want to be more involved in undergraduate research.

This Honors alum is also listed under the Huntsman School of Business.

 

John Kidd (2013) Statistics

I am a professor of statistics at Utah Valley University. I received my Ph.D. in biostatistics from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill in 2021, and began teaching at UVU that year. I am also a consultant for various pharmaceutical-related companies. I feel I will be most helpful to students studying statistics or statistic-based fields who wish to pursue graduate degrees once they complete the Honors Program. Additionally, students interested in graduate programs or entering academia would be a good fit.

 

Jackson Morley (2023) Biochemistry

I am currently working as a medical assistant while pursuing my goal of attending medical school. Over the years, I’ve gained valuable experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including nursing homes, family practice, and dermatology. Beyond clinical work, I’ve been passionate about serving the community – volunteering at the WAB Warming Center and coordinating homeless street outreach programs. On campus, I’ve been involved in exciting undergraduate research focused on recombinant spider silk, bee silk, and hagfish proteins. I have also enjoyed supporting other students as a pre-health peer advisor, guiding them on their journeys to medical, dental, PA, and other health professional schools. Along the way, I’ve taken on roles such as Resident Assistant, FSY counselor, teaching assistant, and tutor. I feel best suited to mentor a student who’s exploring what's next and is eager to grow – whether that’s learning about graduate programs, getting more involved on campus, or building confidence in their goals. Whether full of questions or just starting to explore their options, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned. I especially enjoy working with students who are motivated, open to new ideas, and ready to take initiative – but most importantly, I’m here for anyone who’s genuinely interested in growing and taking that next step, no matter where they’re starting from. I also connect well with students who want to get more involved – whether that’s through research, service, leadership, or other meaningful activities. As a first-generation student myself, I especially love supporting other first-gen students. I understand how overwhelming this process can feel at times, and I’m passionate about helping others navigate it with confidence, clarity, and encouragement.

 

Jessica Staheli (1998) English

I serve as the Chief Client Officer at a company that provides background reports for business ventures (investments/lending) and hiring decisions. After getting my BA in English at USU (with honors!), I went on to obtain a master's degree and pursued a PhD in English, but a different path presented itself and I went into B2B sales. While unexpected, this was a wonderful turn, that led to a career of continued learning in the ever-changing business landscape. I'm currently exploring how AI can enhance (and detract from) the client experience (CX) as well as overseeing our marketing and sales initiatives.  USU holds a special place in my heart and the education and experiences I gained there have helped me in every aspect of my life. I currently live in Southern California with my husband and our dog, Tater, who is an endless source of amusement! I feel that my education and background make me best suited to help students with majors in English, communications, marketing, business, or related fields, though I am open to others areas where my personal experiences (going to graduate school, moving from Logan to Los Angeles, exploring alternate careers over time) may also be helpful.

 

Justin Tirrell (2020) Biology

I write and maintain software for use in diagnostic laboratories. I write code in C# and Lims Basic, and I perform a lot of reporting tasks similar to business analysts and MIS majors. I would be a good mentor for someone with a science or computing background who is interested in pivoting their career from a traditional path.

 

Gregory Waddoups (1994) Liberal Arts, Soviet (Russian) Studies

I have over 30 years of international law, government procurement, dispute resolution, business organization, and transactional experience. I have worked in government, at a large Washington DC law firm, and as business and general counsel in the US, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. I'm a frequent lecturer on international business law and government procurement, having presented in the US and internationally. I have also served as a guest lecturer at Utah State with the Center for Anticipatory Intelligence and the Huntsman School of Business. I most recently led a panel of experts on global procurement at the American Bar Association’s International Section annual meeting. I am currently Corporate Counsel at Northrop Grumman where I lead the legal team supporting its Launch and Missile Defense (LMDS Division) and the Propulsion Systems Business, which is a leading provider of large solid rocket motors for government and commercial space launches and U.S. strategic weapons. Prior to that, I served as Chief Counsel for the International Legal Group at Raytheon Missiles and Defense, where I led a team providing legal support for $5B in annual transactions in over 60 countries. I would be a good fit for someone interested either in the security or defense industry or the legal profession.

David Anderson (1996) Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

I earned a Ph.D. from Caltech in applied mechanics and have had a career largely focused on R&D including stints at GE Global Research, Energy Recovery, Baker Hughes, and a startup. I also spent some time mastering modeling/data analytics at JPMorgan Chase. I would enjoy mentoring someone who is interested in a career filled with stepping into the unknown, working in complex and challenging work environments, and pressing for success in endeavors that are high-reward but against the odds.

 

Myles Bradley (2023) Mechanical Engineering

I graduated from USU in 2023. During my time there, I worked in Doctor Agblevor's lab operating his pyrolysis reactor. I also had an internship at Los Alamos National Laboratory where I spent my time optimizing particle accelerator designs for spaceflight. Since graduating I have been a graduate student at the University of Illinois where my research has focused on plasma material interactions in fusion reactors. I am probably best suited to mentor a student interested in doing research or attending graduate school, as I have experience with what it takes to get a foot in the door in those environments. My technical expertise is in reactor design, vacuum chambers, and high-energy physics experimentation, so I would also be able to mentor someone with similar interests or career goals. I also have experience balancing the demands of academia with my personal life and interpersonal relationships.

 

Tyler Gardner (2018, 2020) Mechanical Engineering

I currently work as an aerospace engineer for the Air Force Research Laboratory. In my current role, I conduct research on propulsion systems for hypersonic systems. This includes computational research (using tools such as computational fluid dynamics and analytical methods) and experimental work in test facilities (wind tunnels). During my graduate studies, I conducted research on small scale hybrid rockets. Besides the obvious match criteria of mechanical and aerospace engineering, my experience and interests probably align well with any student that is looking to work in the aerospace and defense industry, the space industry, and within disciplines such as propulsion, computational fluid dynamics, and/or experimental work. Because I do work for the Air Force (as a civilian), I have had particular success in the past connecting with engineering students who participate in ROTC and similar Air Force-related activities.

 

Abiela Meek Bradley (2023) Biological Engineering

I am a current PhD student in the Kenis Lab at UIUC, where I study sustainable chemical manufacturing and technology entrepreneurship. My research focuses on electrolysis and waste valorization, specifically upgrading waste glycerol from biodiesel manufacturing to formic acid and decoupled electrolysis. I started my research career at USU where I worked for Prof. Ron Sims in the Sustainable Waste to Bioproducts Engineering Center lab studying wastewater valorization using algae biofilms. I also loved serving with the Society of Women Engineers, and continue to work with GradSWE during my PhD. After graduation, I plan to be an entrepreneur focused on producing chemicals from waste streams using advanced technologies. I’m passionate about the environment, manufacturing, family, work-life balance, and providing flexible work opportunities for people so that they can succeed in a variety of circumstances. I take a holistic approach to life and work and hope to inspire others to do the same. I am best suited to mentor a student who is struggling, whether that is to decide a career choice, just figuring out how to get through school, or finding balance. I struggled with my mental health extensively in undergraduate, and hope that I can provide prospective and guidance to students to find joy during the process. An ideal mentee would be honest, willing to be vulnerable, and excited to try new things and consider various opportunities. I can also help students in research, the sciences, or with an interest in graduate school, and someone who is interested in non-traditional careers may be a good fit. Similarly, I was (and am) a married student and can help discuss balancing family and academic/career pursuits.


Michael Paskett (2017) Biological Engineering

I am a Machine Learning Engineer at Meta (formerly Facebook) working on ranking systems. I've also worked on wrist-worn neural interfaces for use in AR/VR environments. I have a PhD in biomedical engineering from the University of Utah, where I developed thought-controlled prostheses for amputees. At USU, I majored in biological engineering. Mentorship while at USU really propelled me toward a life and career that I’m very grateful for, and I love "paying it forward" to current students. 

 

Silvia Smith (2017) Mechanical Engineering

I attended USU and graduated in December 2017 with a major in mechanical engineering, and minors in computer science and mathematics. As an intern, I worked in large metal fabrication/manufacturing, acoustics, and mining/chemical explosives. From these, I gained experience in R&D, modeling, data analysis, and product validation. I have now worked in the vacuum industry doing leak detection and calibration for 3 years. In my current position, I have experience with LEAN manufacturing, process engineering, quality engineering, as well as team leadership and technical writing. I’m looking to mentor women in STEM, especially Mechanical Engineering; anyone interested in metrology (calibration), vacuum, leak detection; or Mechanical Engineers not in aerospace.

Ryan Soulier (1997) Computer Engineering (BS), Software Engineering (MS)

I am an experienced program manager with a demonstrated history of working in enterprise product development and delivery. I am skilled in program management, cross-functional team leadership, scaled agile, and quality practices. I am best suited to mentor students interested in project management and or leading engineering teams.

Abby Barton (2021) Kinesiology

I am a Physician Assistant working at a community health center, where I’m passionate about providing accessible, compassionate care to underserved populations. I completed my PA training at the University of Utah in 2024 and earned my bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from Utah State University in 2021. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me exploring the outdoors - whether hiking, biking, rafting, camping, or just soaking up fresh air. I am best suited to mentor pre-PA or pre-med students.

 

Rebecca Bruso (2005, 2016) Liberal Arts, Communication Disorders

I loved my time at Utah State as a President’s Ambassador and Honors student. My internship in the U.S. Senate was life changing and opened my eyes to the political realm. After five years in the Utah Governor’s office, my family moved to Asia and I later received my master’s degree in speech-language pathology. I could best mentor an international student or a domestic student who is interested in history, political science, a medical field, or early childhood education.

This Honors alum is also listed under the College of Arts & Sciences.

 

Brady DeHart (2012, 2017) Psychology

After completing my PhD in experimental psychology, I was a postdoctoral fellow at Virginia Tech's Addiction Recovery Research Center. After my post-doc, I decided to leave my path toward becoming a professor and enter the private sector. I was a director of research at HCA Healthcare where I supported the research efforts of over 200 medical residents. Currently, I work for Optum Genomics as a director of Health Outcomes and economics researcher. I collaborate with genetic testing and pharmaceutical companies to develop research studies to demonstrate the clinical utility of their products. I also manage a team of 5 junior researchers who I mentor.

 

Kade Downs (2014) Psychology, Spanish

I grew up on a small farm in Utah. I was the first in my family to graduate from college and attend graduate school. Before I went to grad school I coached football and lacrosse and volunteered with the Best Buddies chapter at USU. I am currently a bilingual (English, Spanish) school psychologist at a high school near Salt Lake City, Utah. I finished my PhD in 2024 and have some mentorship (USU Honors), teaching (undergraduate cognition), research (behavior, narratives, language), and group supervision (APPIC interns) experience. I plan to work in an academic position in the future. Until then, one of the things I enjoy most at the high school is running psychotherapy groups for students who recently immigrated to the United States and building community and mentorship at feeder schools. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of the USU Honors Alumni program for a couple years and I’ve enjoyed working with some bright students whose interests have included things like audiology and music therapy. It’s been interesting to learn about all the ways our skills and interests can align; for example, I don’t have formal training in audiology or music therapy, but I do in language and therapeutic, school-based interventions—making for some creative and enlightening conversations from which both the students and I gained something new. Whether you know exactly what you want to do in the future or you’re creating your plan now, I’d be happy to work with you. However, I remind you that the more specific your plan is the more important fit with a mentor will be.

This Honors alum is also listed under the College of Arts & Sciences.

 
Bryson Grondel (2017) Psychology (Minor – Portuguese)

I graduated from USU in 2017 with a degree in psychology and every intention of becoming a clinical psychologist. However, a chance encounter turned into the catalyst for a career change. After spending some time working in the medical field, I completed a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program and graduated from medical school in 2024. I am currently a resident in internal medicine interested in critical care.

 

Amanda Imundo (2020) Nursing

I graduated in 2020. After doing a brief stint in the OR, I've been an ICU nurse for 4 years. I would like to mentor a nursing or pre-nursing student.

Bryan Farris (1996) Economics (Minors – Political Science, Italian)

One of the many things that I do is a Partner at the Downtown SLC law firm of Anderson & Karrenberg, along with managing a portfolio in sustainable housing and another in Ai opportunities. I have been involved in just about any business that you can name . . . try me! I would be a good fit for a student who is looking to blaze their own trail, particularly in a business career; someone who knows that there is something better out there on the horizon, that just has not been invented/discovered/commercialized yet.

 

Michael Hoggard (2010) Economics (Pre-med)
I am a proud USU alumnus. I graduated with a degree in economics before pursuing an MPH degree in Finland. I then attended medical school at Dartmouth, where I served on the admissions committee for three years and graduated AOA. I was honored to match as one of 21 medical students nationally into a "Triple Board" residency program, where I am specializing in psychiatry, child psychiatry, and pediatrics. I am currently a fourth-year resident at Brown University in Providence, RI. I would be most equipped to mentor students with an interest in medical school and/or global health. I would also be happy to mentor students in economics or other social sciences.


Grant Holyoak (2016) Sociology, Economics

I became a U.S. State Department Foreign Service Officer in April 2019, and have since served as a Vice Consul at the U.S. embassies in Beijing and San Salvador. Before beginning work at the State Department, I worked for the U.S. federal government in several capacities including at the Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Government Accountability Office. After graduating from USU, I received a Master's in Public Policy from George Washington University in December 2018. My professional interests include immigration/refugee issues and U.S. foreign relations with Latin America and the People's Republic of China. My experience could be particularly helpful for students who are considering careers in the federal government or want to be more involved in undergraduate research.

This Honors alum is also listed under the College of Arts & Sciences.

  

Jake Lewis (2006) Accounting

I began my career with a small venture capital firm, did some auditing on my own, and then worked for eighteen months as a controller for a Utah-based company's office in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Afterwards, I completed an MBA at BYU and connected into the oil and gas industry. I spent seven years there and then transitioned into aerospace and defense and have been with Collins Aerospace (Raytheon) for three years now. I've lived in Houston for the past eleven years and currently work remotely. I would be most suited to students going into accounting/finance or other business majors.

 

Jackie Sullivan (2018) Economics

I am currently a finance and operations leader at a fast-growing startup. Previously, I worked as a venture capital investor at Mercato Partners, supporting startups across the U.S., and as a management consultant at Cicero Group, advising on strategic business challenges. I began my career as an economist with the Ethiopian government in Addis Ababa through the ODI Fellowship Scheme. I am a proud alumna of Utah State University’s Honors Program, majoring in Economics with minors in Statistics and Finance. I later earned an MSc in Development Economics from the University of Oxford and was admitted to Harvard Business School’s MBA program through its deferred 2+2 admissions. I've not had a linear career, but I think I could be most helpful to any student interested in international development, economics, management consulting, or venture capital. I'm also happy to help mentor anyone interested in graduate school as I went through the process twice myself.

Kyleigh Tyler (2019) Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science

I am a 3rd year veterinary anatomic pathology resident and PhD student at the National Institutes of Health. I completed veterinary school at The Ohio State University in 2023 and immediately began my combined residency and PhD program in conjunction with Michigan State University. I graduated from USU in 2019 and majored in Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences. While at USU I was heavily involved in the Honors program and completed my capstone project with Dr. Jeff Mason on the metabolic effects of menopause. My current research focuses on cancer metastasis and understanding the metastatic microenvironment. My ultimate career goal is to be a veterinary physician-scientist. I am passionate about research, the Honors program, and helping students get all they can out of their time at Utah State! I am best suited to mentor students interested in pre-vet, pre-med, or pre-PhD science.