Meet Sarah Wild: Career Counselor from NC State’s Career Development Center

Sarah Wild of the Career Development Center tells us about the journey that brought her to NC State, and her passion to help others.

Tell us about yourself! Where are you from? What brought you to North Carolina/NC State?

I currently reside in Raleigh with my 1 year old golden retriever, Oliver! I was born and raised in Upstate New York, and then lived in Indianapolis, Indiana, for three years. My mom and her twin sister relocated from New York to the coast of North Carolina, so I relocated to be closer to them, and my four dogs that reside with my mom – Molly, Emme, Toby, and Bear! Is it obvious that I love dogs?

What is your academic and/or professional background?

I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and my Master of Science in Student Affairs Counseling from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh; the university is actually located only a short distance from Canada! Much colder up there compared to down here. I’ve been working in higher education for the last five years, first in fraternity/sorority life and now in career services. I’m still actively involved in fraternity/sorority life; I serve as an advisor for Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at NC State and Delta Phi Epsilon at NC Wesleyan College.

What brought you to your field of study? When/Why did you become interested in your area of study/research?

Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to be in the “helping” profession because both my mom and my aunt were professional counselors. When I was in graduate school, I was torn between becoming a school counselor or working in higher education, so I actually ended up taking all of the coursework for both. I decided on higher education because I really enjoyed the collegiate environment. I think the college years are such a transformative time for young people, and I love being able to see young people learn and develop and realize that they CAN impact the world around them.

What is your experience with the MALS program? What do you feel are the strengths of the MALS Program? What do you feel the importance of interdisciplinarity is?

I think the MALS program is a fantastic option for students. It allows individuals from all backgrounds and career pursuits to build an academic program that matches their interests; they can dive into material that means the most to them. Interdisciplinarity allows students to gain knowledge and skills in multiple areas, which I believe, opens up so many more doors in regards to future job opportunities and career options. The program is great for students who have just completed their bachelors, and want to build upon their academic knowledge, but it’s also great for the working professional.

Tell us about your current hobbies, pets, love of music, etc. Are there any recent accomplishments we can share?

I enjoy spending time with my dogs; I call them “pupparoos.” I like to exercise, spend time outdoors, visit the beach, read, attend live concerts, hiking and kayaking. I also have been an active volunteer with HazingPrevention.org for the last seven years. I believe every student involved in a student organization/team should have a positive and safe experience in college, which is why I volunteer. In 2013, I received a National award, the Hank Nuwer Anti-Hazing Hero Award, for my efforts to prevent hazing at SUNY Plattsburgh. Just last year, I also received a “Pride of the Wolf Pack” Award. I am proud of these accomplishments.