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Congratulations to 2020 Leadership Studies graduate, Jaclyn Stiller!

Author: rcooney

Jaclyn Stiller will receive a Leadership Studies Certificate and a degree in Industrial Engineering with a minor in Biomedical Engineering from Iowa State University. Jaclyn was also a Vermeer Scholar in 2017. Congratulations, Jaclyn!

What are your career plans after graduation?

I will be working for 3M as an engineer in their Optimized Operations Rotational Program. My first rotation is in Brookings, South Dakota.

 

What other goals do you have for your life after graduation (hobbies, travel, self-improvement, etc.)? 

I plan to continue my involvement in local theatre. I also want to continue to be involved in STEM outreach to encourage young girls to pursue STEM careers.

 

What was your favorite Leadership Studies class? And why?

My favorite class was LD ST 360x, which I took as part of the Vermeer International Leadership Program. That experience completely changed how I view identity and leadership, and I regard that program as one of my favorite memories at ISU.

 

How do you feel Leadership Studies has made an impact on you?

Leadership Studies has taught me so much about how people think and interact with one another in teams. I believe it has improved my leadership skills because it has heightened my awareness of group dynamics and the responsibility of the leader to foster the success of each team member.

 

What activities, clubs, groups were you a member of at ISU?

I was President of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society, on the 2020 ISU Homecoming Cardinal Court, a Vermeer International Leadership Program Scholar, part of the Society of Women Engineers Program for Women in Science and Engineering (WISE), ISU Theatre, and the University Honors Program.

 

After your time in the program, what is your definition of leadership?

Leadership is the act of fostering group success by maximizing individuals’ strengths, providing guidance and vision, and adapting to change and feedback.

 

What is your favorite memory from being at ISU? 

During my sophomore year, I got to play the lead role in ISU Theatre’s production of Our Town. It was my first mainstage show at ISU, and I absolutely loved the experience. The play is all about living life to the fullest, and I’ve tried to carry its message with me ever since.

 

What would you say to someone considering a Leadership Studies minor or certificate?

I wish everyone was required to take a leadership studies class! It really opened up my worldview to understand people not like myself. I think we all could benefit from more of that.