Back to Student StoriesWhere Are They Now? Two Decades of Career Journeys
Where Are They Now? Two Decades of Career Journeys
We spoke with University of Arizona alumni from the past two decades about their career journeys, the lessons they’ve learned, and the moments on campus that shaped them. Their stories remind us that success looks different for everyone, but the common thread is clear: being a Wildcat prepares you for whatever comes next.
Class of 2000 – Brian Mushimba
Degree: B.S. in Mining Engineering
Campus Involvement: African Students Association; Student Mining Association
Postgrad Education: MBA, Salem University; M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Pittsburg State University; Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, University of Zambia
First Job: Field Service Engineer at Siemens Power Generation
Current Job: Chief Executive Officer
Current Salary: $500,000–$650,000
Career Path: In 25 years, Brian’s journey has taken him from an entry-level engineer to CEO. Along the way, he gained new skills, expertise, and leadership experience that built on the foundation he developed at the University of Arizona. His path also included a turn into public service where he served as an elected Member of Parliament in Zambia and later held Cabinet positions as Transportation & Higher Education Secretary.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “Embrace the experience, allow yourself to explore and take in this college experience. Make friends, they will be lifelong friends. Study and learn the material especially if you want to attend graduate school. College is a lot of discovery; enjoy the ride!”
How Do You Define Success Now: “For me, success has been the ability to take what was learned and apply it in the world. To see that the foundation at undergrad anchors all other things you do in your career, allowing you to take on more while you progress into more senior and leadership roles seems to define success for me.”
Class of 2005 – Erin Hesser
Degree: B.A. in Studio Art with a minor in Business
Postgrad Education: M.A. in Art Education & Visual Culture with K–12 teaching certification (2005); pursuing Ph.D. in Human Services with a focus on leadership and organizational management
First Job: Development & Volunteer Coordinator, Phoenix Art Museum
Current Job: Regional Foundation Manager, Westgate Foundation & Community Affairs
Career Path: Erin began her journey teaching art education, training future teachers, and creating the K–12 curriculum. After several years in museums and nonprofits – where she managed volunteers, coordinated fundraisers, and reimagined educational programs – she took a career break to support her family during military deployments. Returning to work, she transitioned into executive administration and corporate philanthropy.
Today, Erin leads philanthropic initiatives across four states, overseeing more than $1 million in annual grants, employee giving campaigns, and large-scale community events. Through it all, her education background continues to shape how she builds accessible, engaging, and impactful programs.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: "If I could sit down with my first-year self, I’d start with this: networking matters. Not just the kind where you collect business cards or LinkedIn connections, but the kind where you build real relationships, ask thoughtful questions, and show up for others. I’d tell myself that every conversation is a chance to learn, and every connection is a thread in the fabric of your future.”
Skill Learned at the U of A: "One of the most enduring skills I carry from my time at the University of Arizona is the ability to break down complex projects into manageable, meaningful pieces. That lesson came from my thesis committee and the incredible faculty in the Art Ed department from 2001–2005. They taught me that good research isn’t just about collecting information – it’s about structuring it thoughtfully, pacing yourself, and trusting that the whole will come together if you build it with intention. I still think about that process every time I take on a large initiative or lead a multi-phase project. It’s become second nature.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Bison Witches and 4th Ave
Class of 2005 – Kelly Mendoza
Degree: B.S. in Chemical Engineering with Biomedical Specialization, cum laude, with a minor in Chemistry
Campus Involvement: Engineering Ambassadors; Honors College
Postgrad Education: M.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University (2008); Pharm.D., Midwestern University College of Pharmacy–Glendale (2015)
First Job: Clinical Pharmacist in Pain Management & Opioid Stewardship at Kaweah Health in California
Current Job: Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Ambulatory Pain Management
Current Salary: $210,000
Career Path: Kelly’s journey shows how success isn’t always a straight line. After finishing her master’s degree during the 2008 recession, she struggled to find engineering work and pivoted into pharmacy. She completed a Doctor of Pharmacy and two residencies (including a PGY2 in Pain Management & Palliative Care in Baltimore) before stepping into a clinical pharmacist role. When her position was eliminated due to COVID funding, she found a new opportunity with PeaceHealth in Washington, where she now specializes in ambulatory pain management.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “Enjoy all the activities and experiences college has to offer. Soak it all in and don't be afraid to take chances and explore new opportunities.”
How Do You Define Success Now: “When I graduated, I thought being successful meant landing a good paying job. While that did come to fruition, I now define success by the company I keep, my close friends, my husband, and my two daughters, and being able to have a flexible and supportive job that allows for a work-life balance so that I can be around for all the important moments in life.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Frog & Firkin
Class of 2010 – Natalia Temboni
Degree: B.A. in Psychology
Campus Involvement: Freshman Class Council; Resident Assistant, Graham-Greenlee
First Job: Case Manager at CODAC
Current Job: Optometrist
Current Salary: $200k+
Career Path: After graduation from the University of Arizona, Natalia began volunteering and connected with Dr. Twelker, an optometrist at a local hospital. Shadowing him sparked her interest in the field, leading her to pursue a Doctor of Optometry degree at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA, graduating in 2016. Today, she works as an optometrist with a thriving practice and a passion for patient care.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “Volunteer as much as possible in order to gain exposure to different fields.”
How Do You Define Success Now: “I define success as inner peace. When the decisions I make are in alignment, I feel at peace and as if I'm moving in the right direction.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: The Mall
Class of 2010 – Victoria Duckworth
Degree: B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology
Campus Involvement: Resident Assistant, Yuma (junior year) and Yavapai (senior year)
First Job: Research Associate I at Roche Tissue Diagnostics (Ventana Medical Systems) in Oro Valley
Current Job: Associate Director of Product Management, Nabsys
Current Salary: $170,000
Career Path: Victoria began her biotech career in Tucson as a Research Associate at Roche, focusing on benchwork and reagent manufacturing. Over seven years, she transitioned into more technical and customer-facing training roles, building confidence both scientifically and professionally. In 2017, she was recruited to Massachusetts as a Product Manager – a technically oriented business role – marking a major pivot in her career.
Since then, she has taken on increasingly senior positions at biotech companies across domains from spatial biology to genomics. Today, as Associate Director of Product Management at Nabsys, she champions science by supporting researchers, developing tools, and leading product strategies.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “I'd tell myself to branch out, and take more non-science courses. College is the best opportunity you have to broaden your horizons while you're still relatively untethered. There's so so much to know, take advantage of it!”
How Do You Define Success Now: “Success is so completely different to me, 15 years on. I was much harder on myself in my youth, and didn't celebrate the little wins. Today I'm successful because I work for a company whose mission I care about, feel fulfilled by my work, and can enjoy the life my education helped build.”
Class of 2010 – Lance Madden
Degree: B.A. in Journalism with a minor in English
Campus Involvement: Arizona Daily Wildcat (2006–2010)
First Job: Coordinator of Affiliate Relations at College Media Network (then-owned by MTV Networks) in New York City
Current Job: Senior Manager, Revenue Operations at People
Career Path: Lance’s journey was launched in the newsroom of the Arizona Daily Wildcat, where he gained experience that opened doors in the media world. After graduation, he joined College Media Network in New York City and began building a career in digital advertising, learning on the fly. His career steadily advanced through roles at major media companies, including dream brands like Forbes, Sports Illustrated, Time, Fortune, Martha Stewart, and People. While he initially imagined himself as a hotshot writer, he found a passion for working strategically with revenue – an exciting and rewarding shift that all started at the University of Arizona.
Skill Learned at the U of A: “One of the most lasting skills I learned at the University of Arizona was how to build meaningful friendships and professional relationships. Some of my closest friends – and biggest career supporters – came from my college years. Learning how to connect, collaborate, and grow alongside others has been just as valuable as anything I learned in the classroom.”
One Tip You’d Give to Current Wildcats Entering Your Field: “Be open to roles outside of traditional journalism – especially in areas like digital advertising, operations, audience development, or AI. The media industry is evolving fast, and some of the most exciting (and stable) opportunities are behind the scenes. Learn the business side early; it’ll make you a more versatile and valuable professional.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Arizona Daily Wildcat newsroom in the Park Student Union
Class of 2015 – Casey Ann Carrillo
Degree: B.A. in Communication with a minor in Sociology
Campus Involvement: Lambda Pi Eta (Communication Honor Society)
Postgrad Education: M.A. in Higher Education, University of Arizona (2017)
First Job: Program Coordinator with the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship
Current Job: Executive Director, University of Arizona Center for Innovation
Career Path: Casey never imagined a future in entrepreneurship and innovation, but the skills she developed through both her undergraduate and graduate programs prepared her for it. After completing her master’s degree, she began her career as a Program Coordinator with the McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship, where she managed the New Venture Development program and guided students through the process of building companies from the ground up. In that role, Casey helped design experiential education opportunities, engaged with Tucson’s growing innovation ecosystem, and gained a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial mindset.
Those experiences equipped her with the expertise to lead at a larger scale. Today, she oversees a science and technology incubator at the University of Arizona Center for Innovation, working closely with scalable startups. She credits her foundation in communication, program development, and adaptability for shaping her leadership approach and career growth.
Skill Learned at the U of A: “Adaptability. Being able to pivot and identify different routes or opportunities for success is a skill that I developed during both my undergrad and grad programs at the U of A. I have to be adaptable in my position. Managing a staff and working with startups, there are times where you have to roll with the punches and adjust and that is okay. Being able to adapt is such an important skillset.”
One Tip You’d Give to Current Wildcats Entering Your Field: “Be creative. Working with entrepreneurs is an exciting and exhilarating experience, but because you're working with entrepreneurs, you have to be creative in how you can offer support. Be creative in developing programs. Be creative in providing resources. If you are presented with no, be creative in finding a way to get a yes.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Scented Leaf on University
Class of 2015 – Jason Boesel
Degree: B.F.A. in Visual Communication
Campus Involvement: U of A Bookstore; ResLife; Marketing & Brand Management
Postgrad Education: M.S. in Marketing, University of Arizona (2016)
First Job: Contract Graphic Designer
Current Job: Senior Graphic Designer
Current Salary: $75K+
Career Path: Jason’s career began on campus with Marketing & Brand Management in the Admin Building, where he applied his design skills to help evolve the University of Arizona’s brand identity. This early experience taught him that graphic design isn’t just a career – it’s a versatile skillset that can drive tangible outcomes. After completing his BFA and an MS in Marketing at Eller, Jason expanded his career across the creative industry, taking on design roles with Microsoft, Xbox, Facebook Audience Network, and CVS. In 2017, he moved to Phoenix and, after several years in advertising, returned to academic marketing, eventually joining Grand Canyon University to continue applying his design expertise.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “Absorb everything. Ask questions. Get comfortable with growth, and treat college as a launch pad into any profession you choose to pursue. If you put in the time, you can accomplish anything.”
One Tip You’d Give to Current Wildcats Entering Your Field: “As silly as it sounds: work hard, be nice to people, and ask questions. Even when you're loaded up with all of the knowledge your program will teach you, it's just the tip of the iceberg. The creative industry is fast-moving and requires a level of continued education in order to stay on top of things. By staying adaptable, you can succeed.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Running the Mall early in the morning, from Old Main down to Campbell and back.
Class of 2020 – Michael Dow
Degree: M.S. for Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN)
Campus Involvement: Sigma Theta Tau, Nursing Honor Society
First Job: Registered Nurse, floor nurse at a Level 1 inpatient psychiatric hospital
Current Job: Infection Control Manager / Staff Educator
Current Salary: $45–50/hour
Career Path: Michael’s journey to nursing began with 16 years of military service – eight in the USAF as a Mission Crew Commander on the EC-130H, followed by eight years as an Army Wounded Warrior Advocate supporting combat PTSD veterans. Using his GI Bill, he pursued nursing at the U of A, then joined Palo Verde Behavioral Health, working across all four units and as an intake nurse. He became the Infection Control Nurse and Staff Educator in March 2025 and also serves as an On-Call Instructor teaching psych clinicals to MEPN students.
In addition to his clinical work, Michael is the founder of a successful children’s health book series. His first book, featuring Nurse Florence in homage to Florence Nightingale, launched in 2020, and he now oversees a team of more than 180 illustrators publishing a new book approximately every five days. The series covers science and health topics for families, while a second series, Nurse Dorothea, focuses on mental health for teens and young adults. His books have won more than 120 awards and are even available on Harvard University’s online bookstore.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “The program is very rigorous. Use many coping skills to stay mentally well and use every minute wisely.”
One Tip You’d Give to Current Wildcats Entering Your Field: “Fully commit yourself to your profession because we need more nurses.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: The outdoor courtyard at the College of Nursing
Class of 2020 – Shane Blum
Degree: B.A. in Political Science – International Relations
Campus Involvement: Treasurer, Phi Alpha Delta (Pre-Law); Member, Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity
First Job: Nasdaq Stock Exchange
Current Job: Portfolio Manager – Emerging Markets, AllianceBernstein
Current Salary: $200K+
Career Path:
During his time at the University of Arizona, Shane studied abroad in Switzerland, immersing himself in international political organizations such as the WTO and the UN. While he initially thought he would pursue law, the experience sparked a different passion: finance. He began his career with the Nasdaq Stock Exchange, first as an intern and then full-time after graduation.
From there, he joined the New York Stock Exchange, helping global companies go public through IPOs. His path led him to Goldman Sachs, where he worked in equity and debt capital markets before transitioning to his current role as a Portfolio Manager at AllianceBernstein in Nashville. Today, Shane oversees more than $20 billion in institutional client capital invested in emerging markets. His background in international relations continues to influence his work, as geopolitics directly shape the economies and countries his team invests in.
One Tip You’d Give to Current Wildcats Entering Your Field: “Embrace AI and ask yourself how it can benefit the future of your work sector. There’s likely something that is ripe for disruption that you can build.”
How Do You Define Success Now: “When I graduated, I wanted to prove to myself that I could do the things that seemed very hard and rare. In my own way I did accomplish this but I still have a road ahead. This road has changed from chasing what I thought I wanted with certain job titles or companies to actually aligning what I’m passionate about my skills. This is an ongoing journey – a marathon and not a sprint.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Dirtbags
Class of 2020 – Mish DeCarlo
Degree: B.A. in Journalism with a thematic minor in Entertainment Media
Campus Involvement: Ambassador, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences; Reporter and Anchor, UATV 3; Sports Reporter, The Daily Wildcat; VP of Community Relations, Alpha Phi; Study Abroad through Norton School of Human Ecology’s Mod Rockers and Paris Goes Pop programs in London and Paris
First Job: Educational Leadership Consultant for Alpha Phi International Fraternity
Current Job Title: Area Sales Manager
Career Path: Mish began her career as an Educational Leadership Consultant for Alpha Phi International Fraternity, traveling nationwide to support collegiate chapters and strengthen their leadership and operations. The experience solidified her drive to pursue a career in sales and opened doors she credits to her time at Arizona. She soon joined the Mark Anthony Group as a Field Sales Representative in Orange County, managing a portfolio of brands including White Claw, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and Cayman Jack.
As the company expanded into the Liquid Refreshment Beverage category with the launch of Mas+ by Messi, Mish advanced to Area Sales Manager in 2024. In this role, she oversees strategy, brand building, and market growth across Southern California. Every step of her journey, Mish says, connects back to the foundation she built at the University of Arizona.
Advice You’d Tell Yourself as a Student: “If I could give my first-year self advice, I’d say: say yes more often. Get involved, try new things, and don’t be afraid to take on roles that feel bigger than you at the time. Every opportunity – from joining Alpha Phi to anchoring at UATV 3 to studying abroad – shaped the career and life I have today. You never know which yes will be the one that changes everything, so take the leap and trust the process.”
Skill Learned at the U of A: “One of the most valuable skills I learned at the University of Arizona was the ability to communicate and lead with confidence. U of A gave me endless opportunities to do rather than just watch. Whether it was reporting at UATV 3, presenting as an SBS Ambassador, or serving as a VP in Alpha Phi, I learned how to connect with different audiences and tell a story in a way that resonates. Those experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me to step up, be relied on, and prove that I could lead at a higher level. That foundation has carried me through every stage of my career and gave me the confidence to manage up, embrace bigger challenges, and thrive in highly competitive industries.”
Favorite U of A Hangout Spot: Rooftop at Illegal Pete’s, and the Alpha Phi sorority house