John Vandecoevering, BS ’27, had questions prepared for one of his first informational interviews. What he did not know yet was that the conversation would become more than a chance to learn about career paths. It would also become a moment of encouragement, practical advice, and continued support from a Lundquist alum who remembered what it felt like to be in his shoes.
Through Lundquist Connect, John connected with Corrine Cooley, BA ’14, MBA ’21, an alum who was ready not only to answer his questions, but also to help him build confidence in how he approached networking.
A First Step Into Networking
John logged onto the platform looking to learn more about career paths he was interested in exploring. What he didn’t expect was how welcoming and supportive the experience would be. During their conversation, John shared that this was one of his first informational interviews. Corrine knew how to respond by making space for him to learn in real time.
“She let me go with what I had prepared,” John shared, “and then provided me with feedback on insightful questions to ask in future informational interviews.” That simple act, where a conversation turned into a shared learning moment, made a lasting impression. As their conversation unfolded, the two also discovered mutual connections within the Duck community, which helped the exchange feel even more natural and personal.
One moment stood out to John more than anything else: Corrine’s willingness to help beyond their initial conversation. She offered to review his resume and invited him to reach out for guidance on different job environments. What’s more, John and Corrine are reconnecting now to do just that—going over his resume together and continuing the conversation they started. “That really means a lot to me,” John said. “It showed that she genuinely wanted to help.”
Why Alumni Want to Help
For Corrine, that desire to give back is exactly why she’s on Lundquist Connect. “I enjoy giving back to the community, fellow Ducks, and a university that offered me so much,” she explained.
What surprised Corrine most about her interaction with John was the way he approached the conversation. “I appreciated the authenticity, vulnerability, and genuine curiosity,” Corrine shared. “No question is too big, small, or silly, and I was grateful he was willing to ask whatever was on his mind.”
That openness, combined with shared roots as Ducks at the Lundquist College, made for an easy and meaningful exchange. Alumni on Lundquist Connect remember what it’s like to be in students’ shoes.
“We didn’t have it all figured out during school,” she shared. “Having mentors or connections to lean on can make that journey a little less intimidating.”
Start With One Conversation
Both John and Corrine agree that’s where the real value of Lundquist Connect lies. For students, it’s an opportunity to hear firsthand from professionals doing the work they aspire to do, including the successes, challenges, and lessons that shaped their paths. For alumni, it’s a chance to support the next generation of Ducks in a tangible way.
As Corrine put it best: alumni are on Lundquist Connect because they want to give back.
Your first message does not have to be perfect. Start with one conversation, and reach out to alumni who are there to share advice, answer questions, and help you take your next step. Through Lundquist Connect, you can begin building connections with alumni who remember what it was like to be in your shoes.
