Southwestern Magazine | Fall 2020

SOUTHWE S T E RN | 1 7 CCPD'S CURIOUS CONVERSATIONS One of the best things about attending Southwestern University is the ability to pursue multiple interests instead of focusing on just one field. In fact, students are encouraged to cultivate their natural curiosity and make connections between and across disciplines. A political science major may have a minor in theatre, for example, or a student can major in both biochem- istry and French. This freedom comes with one caveat: When it comes time to choose a career path, it can take some research and effort to determine the way forward. Southwestern’s Center for Career & Professional Devel- opment (CCPD) helps Southwestern students do just that. For years, CCPD has been helping students explore their career options through visits to workplaces in Central Texas and networking events with local alumni. With in-person opportunities limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CCPD launched Curious Conversations, a new program designed to help students connect virtually with alumni across the country, this fall. “We’re no longer bound by geographic necessity,” says Alexandra Anderson, senior associate director of CCPD. “Through Curious Conversations, we can better help students explore industries outside our region. This is a great chance to connect students with alumni they would normally not be likely to connect with.” Twenty alumni have volunteered to participate in these web conference events on Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the fall, including Shawn Pipkin-West ’94, a first assistant director who has worked on productions ranging from the new Disney+ dramedy Big Shot, starring John Stamos, to ABC’s long-running megahit Grey’s Anatomy . When Pipkin-West heard about the opportunity to speak with and inspire students at her alma mater, she was eager to participate. “I always believe in giving back, and I truly enjoy engaging with young people who are just beginning their journeys,” says Pipkin-West, who is based in Los Angeles but has worked on location in Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, New York City, North Carolina, Texas, and Washington State. “I offer advice, motivation, and cautionary tales to help them navigate their lives and careers.” Speakers represent a variety of industries, including entertainment, business, marketing, finance, nonprofits, and government affairs. No matter their title, they will all share what they do, how they got there, and how fellow Pirates can enter their field. “I believe opportunity and exposure are keys to elevation in our society. This type of access for students and alumni is rare and invaluable,” says Pipkin-West. Students and alumni are invited to participate in these informal Q&A sessions. The complete schedule is available at www.southwestern.edu/alumni/ virtual-engagement. BY DEBBIE RITENOUR