Campus: University of Cincinnati, Harvard University
Graduation Year: 2016, 2017
Degree Program: Master of Design in Interaction Design (5+1 Program), Master of Education in Technology, Innovation, and Education
Previous NSCS Roles: I was a TalkNerdy2Me Blog Contributor and NHFA Scholarship Committee Member.
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/bnesto
When did you join NSCS?
I joined NSCS in 2012 when I was a sophomore at the University of Cincinnati. Why did I join? I must’ve thought the world was ending! In addition to that, I considered myself… well, a collegiate scholar! I saw the title of the group one day when browsing the web and immediately researched the organization, and the rest is history.
How did your time with NSCS help prepare you for life after college?
NSCS prepared me for post-college life by taking my ambition and peppering it with purpose. Before NSCS, I really just wanted to achieve something cool, but after getting involved, I began to connect the dots, so to speak, when it came to my interests and overall desire to cause impact.
What was the most important thing you’ve gotten from your time as an undergraduate NSCS member?
The most important thing I gained from my time as an undergraduate NSCS member was confidence. Having a network, I can rely on for support, guidance, and mentorship has been critical to my experiences and successes.
What is the most important thing you are getting out of your time as an Alumni NSCS member?
Resources! The online portal offers so many ways to stay involved. I can brush up on tips regarding how to be both professional and approachable. I can get discounts on conference travel. I can even find scholarships for alumni. These resources are cogent and super helpful.
Where are you now since graduating?
I am currently a designer working for Medicare, as well as a professor at the University of Cincinnati. I recently traveled to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to attend the ever-interesting (and beautifully bizarre) Eyeo Festival. It was phenomenal. I will absolutely be returning in the coming years. Lately, I have been actively brainstorming my future using sticky notes. (Hint hint: I am Perfectly Happy Desiring more education)
If you could give a newly inducted undergraduate NSCS member advice on their path through their collegiate journey, what would it be?
Escape your bubble by joining extracurriculars COMPLETELY different from your major. Don’t just intern once; intern as much as you think you can. Intern in other states and countries. Minor in something. Shake your professor’s hand. Oh! And go to parties 😊
If you could give an undergraduate student who is considering joining NSCS advice, what would it be?
If you don’t like access to a myriad of scholarships and internship opportunities, or resources that can help you find the perfect graduate school, or discounts on education and entertainment, or leadership-building materials, then don’t sign up. But, if you love these things—and I think you do—nominate yourself. You will be like me, looking back happily on these undergraduate years and realizing NSCS was 100% worthwhile.
