We caught up with Nathan Fuerst in 2013. He graduated
from our program in 2002. He is now the Director of Admissions at the University of Connecticut. We are very proud of Nathan and appreciate how he applies his Communication degree in his career every day.
1) During which years were you a student at UNL and when did you graduate? Which degree(s) did you earn at UNL?
I was at UNL 1997 to 2002, earning my B.A. in Communication Studies, followed by my M.B.A in 2006.
2) What have you been doing since leaving UNL?
I've worked in Enrollment Management at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and now at the University of Connecticut as the Director of Admissions.
3) Why did you choose a major in Communication Studies?
I changed my major from Agriculture to Communication Studies after taking an introductory course in Communication Studies. For the first time in the classroom, I was able to pair learning with fun.
4) How has your communication degree helped you in your life and career?
I emphasize to our team that effective communication is a process. No one
communicates perfectly all of the time, and when we are stressed, the 'hard wired' tendencies, in particular, the more ugly ones, come out. My degree has helped maintain a focus on constantly improving our communication to effectively advocate, negotiate and relate to achieve our goals.
5) What is a favorite memory of your time in Communication Studies at UNL?
I recall how Ron Lee's course pushed me intellectually. I realized that I enjoyed being pushed in this way. I recall a high level of satisfaction on what I learned and accomplished in that particular course. This helped to shape a work ethic that has continued to reward thus far in my career.
6) In what ways can alumni support our department and students?
Mentorship is critical. I encourage undergraduate students to attach themselves to anyone who they aspire to be later in their career. Draw upon their strengths, learn about their weakness and don't hesitate to openly acknowledge to your mentor(s) that you view them in this way.
7) What advice do you have for current undergraduate students in our department? Work with passion, celebrate your achievements, but always hold an appetite for the greater challenges ahead. Take a moment now and again to consider how you can turn everything on its ear. Find ways to achieve progress both incrementally and monumentally.