Fall 2024 started a bit differently for Principia graduates. Instead of showing up to school with their backpacks, they showed up to their first job out of college. So where are they now and how are they feeling about their experience at Prin now that they’ve had a few months to reflect? Some have stuck close to home, while others are on the other side of the globe.
Dillon Hussey majored in computer science and mathematics with a minor in business and economics. He is working as a software developer in St. Louis. He works for Quanta Services, where he contributes to the development of a website used in the construction and electrical industries to inspect critical infrastructure such as power lines and other equipment. He said the college played a role in shaping his ability to work with others.
“Being involved in extracurriculars,” Hussey said, “especially house board and student government really has helped me at work, because I’m comfortable taking initiative and getting stuff done as well as working on a team.”
Donbosco Ngeso, who graduated with a degree in physics, has carried his leadership skills and passion for sports from college into his life in San Francisco, California where he now works as an operations assistant for a private cybersecurity company.
The former Student Body President, Rachkam House president, and cross-country runner, said he realizes he learned lessons at Principia beyond the classroom.
“Life is a process, and it’s a complete package where everything you do matters,” Ngeso said. “I’ve had people engage in meaningful conversations with me and introduce me to opportunities simply because we were part of a common sport, like track and cross country. Every little connection can lead to something bigger.”
Shemarri Miles stayed on campus during the summer and fall, training with the basketball team as he prepared for his next big step. Miles joined the Tipp Talons national basketball team in Ireland as a professional player, following his lifelong passion for the sport. A mass communication major, Miles said the lessons he learned in Merrick Davis continues to shape his journey.
“I’ll never let go of mass comm; it got me here,” Miles said, “My role in the game requires good communication skills, and that comes in handy from the many classes I took as a mass comm major.”
Principia College has extended job offers to several members of the 2024 graduating class, providing them with opportunities to contribute to the campus community. Among them are Chris Ajuoga, now working in the marketing department; Jay Ogbonna, who has joined the admissions team; and Alana Hinson, who is part of the athletics department.
Hinson, who now serves as the athletics manager and a graduate assistant for the women’s basketball and volleyball teams, is no stranger to the sports scene at Principia. Having played both basketball and volleyball during her time as a student, she said she felt well-prepared for the role and decided to apply. In addition to her work on campus, Hinson is pursuing a master’s degree in sociology online through New Mexico State University.
“There was a lot of positive energy poured into me from the Principia community, which made me want to come back,” Hinson said. She encouraged students to take full advantage of the resources available at the college “Utilize the amazing resources we have here—the career center, clubs, leadership positions, and sports. It’s very beneficial in the long run,” she said.
