In this episode, Wendi J. Rois shares her inspiring graduate journey in the MSIS program, reflecting on her return to academics, the challenges she overcame, and the confidence she gained through mentorship and interdisciplinary learning. She discusses how the OWLS program transformed her perspective on leadership, personal growth, and lifelong learning, encouraging students to take bold steps toward their goals and believe in their potential.
Our mission is to highlight the collective impact of the OWLS community by featuring alumni narratives that reflect the transformative power of mentorship and interdisciplinary education. By exploring how these experiences influence their professional paths, we illustrate a continuous cycle of leadership development, innovation, and workplace excellence.
About OWLS at WORk
The OWLS Podcast exists to highlight and celebrate the experiences, achievements, and professional journeys of the OWLS community. Through thoughtful conversations with alumni, faculty, students, and industry leaders, the podcast explores how mentorship, interdisciplinary learning, and experiential education within OWLS shape career development and leadership success. Our goal is to create meaningful connections, share real-world insights, and amplify voices that reflect the diverse pathways and impacts of an OWLS education.
Through these discussions, the podcast aims to inspire current and prospective students, support professional growth, and strengthen engagement across the OWLS network. Topics include leadership development, workforce trends, career pathways, organizational change, higher education experiences, and personal stories of resilience and success. The podcast is designed for students, alumni, educators, professionals, and anyone interested in leadership, organizational studies, and workforce development, offering valuable perspectives that bridge academic learning with practical application.
Episode-1 featuring Wendi J. Rios
Episode-2 featuring Erica Cepeda
In this Owls at Work episode, we feature Erica Cepeda, an Owls graduate and program coordinator in higher education. She shares her journey from administrative assistant to earning her master’s, applying classroom learning to support 300+ students, conducting research, and publishing manuscripts. Erica highlights how mentorship, perseverance, and the Owls program empowered her to grow professionally and positively impact others in higher education.
Episode-3 Featuring Ibrahima Kande
In this episode, Ibrahima Kande, an Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awardee, shares his journey from military service to success in the OWLS program. He highlights how its flexibility and recognition of real-world experience helped him progress quickly. Through initiative and mentorship, he secured internships and scholarships, moving closer to his goal of becoming an attorney while encouraging others to stay persistent and advocate for themselves.
