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β€œThe most important thing I’ve learned is to practice resting while in motion, which is something I learned while training for my first half marathon. I have a tendency to push myself and focus on how things can and should be improved, a tendency that I’m sure is present in many Wake grads. While that can be a helpful trait, I’ve also realized that running all out, all the time is not sustainable. Sometimes jogging, which can feel painfully slow, is what’s necessary in life.”

Joel Ang (’11), Founder at Matrimoney in Boston, MA


lifeafterwake

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WFU Alumni Personal & Career Development Center: Supporting our alumni as they work, build their lives, and make decisions about what comes next.

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Mar 19

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You’re invited! ALUMNI WEBINAR: Wednesday, March 25, 12-12:30pm ET on Zoom πŸ—“οΈπŸ“ No matter your career stage, AI can be a powerful tool for career development. Join our team members Lauren Beam (β€˜07) and Sabrina Broderick (MSM β€˜25) as we show you how to use specific prompts to guide your career exploration and level up your personal reflection and decision-making skills using AI! You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply to gain clarity, confidence, and momentum in your next career steps. This session will help you make more intentional, informed choices. Plus, you’ll probably realize that AI can be an awesome professional career coach! 🎬 Behind the Scenes: We created an AI persona named β€œSalem Reynolds” who will be our sample WFU alum for walking through this demo of AI prompts to use in any career stage. β€œSalem” is the ultimate Demon Deacon. 🎩 You don’t want to miss this fun, interactive webinar! Register at the link in our bio or stories to save your spot. https://wakenetwork.wfu.edu/events/online-03-25-2026-0012788

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Mar 18

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As a Client Relationship Manager, Cole Sonner (β€˜21) simplifies the complex world of commercial banking at IBISWorld. Based in πŸ“New York, Cole partners with financial institutions across North America to streamline risk analysis and underwriting. Whether he’s navigating new challenges or managing hundreds of unique client relationships, his career is defined by his consistent intentionality. Check out his story in our latest Deacon Spotlight! Here are some fun facts about Cole: 🀩 Cole worked at the Welcome Center for his four years at Wake Forest, and got to meet a few celebrities bringing their kids in for tours! 🌍 He studied abroad in Barcelona during his Junior year. πŸ‘ŠCole was part of the CHARGE Leadership Program during his time at Wake. [BONUS Fun Fact: 🎩 Cole is one of our newest Alumni Career Advisers! Go reach out to him for a career conversation!] We’ll leave you with some advice from Cole about the benefits of trying out different roles after graduation: πŸ’‘πŸ’‘πŸ’‘πŸ’‘πŸ’‘πŸ’‘ β€œThe years after graduation are key in identifying what you love and what aspects of your role you excel at - I was lucky enough to have had jobs that exposed me to plenty of responsibilities and opportunities. It is okay to be thrown into the fire and to take on the challenge of wearing different hats. Finding the highlight of your day or role, and translating that into a resume is what has helped find opportunities.” Read more of our Q&A with Cole at the link in our profile or stories! Plus, you can always check out our past alumni spotlights in the β€œDeacon Spotlight” highlight reel in our profile. https://alumni.opcd.wfu.edu/deacon-spotlight/deacon-spotlight-cole-sonner/

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Mar 12

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Deacs! It’s not too late to register for this discussion group - we’ll be talking about Hermania Ibarra’s unconventional strategies for career transitions. πŸ¦‹πŸ“š Seats are limited, so register now to secure your spot! Register at go.wfu.edu/next or at link in stories! πŸ”—

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Mar 11

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Hey there, Deacs! No matter where you are in the world, you can connect with a fellow Wake Forester through our Coffee Chats with Alumni! πŸ–€πŸ’› Registration for our April Coffee Chat is open, so be sure to sign up! This is a great, easy way to grow your network ☺️ Learn more and register at go.wfu.edu/next or at link in stories 🌸

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Mar 10

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Calling all NYC Deacs! πŸ—½ The APCDC is hosting an interactive workshop designed to help you get unstuck in your career search. Join us on Thursday, April 23, for an evening of networking and expert advice. πŸ’‘ Whether you’re looking for your next step, navigating a career change, or just starting out, this event will provide you with the tools and connections you need. Spots are limited, and registration is required. Sign up now at go.wfu.edu/next or at link in stories

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Mar 10

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NYC DEACS!!! Join us for an Alumni Happy Hour at Bar Veloce in the East Village. This is a great chance to reconnect with old friends, make new professional connections, and enjoy a night out with your Wake Forest family in the city. πŸŒ† When: Thursday, March 26, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Where: Bar Veloce ⚠️ Reminder: This is an alumni-only event and registration is required to attend. Secure your spot at go.wfu.edu/next or using the link in stories 🎩✨

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Mar 9

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62% of professionals are disengaged at work. Don’t let that be your story in 2026!πŸ“‰ Tonight is the FINAL CHANCE to register for our webinar: How to Make a Career Change in 2026. Join career expert Hallie Crawford to learn how to identify your ideal path and overcome the fears keeping you stuck. ⏳ Deadline: Midnight tonight! πŸ”— Sign up: Link in bio or swipe up in Stories. β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€”β€” https://wakenetwork.wfu.edu/events/online-webinar-how-to-make-a-career-change-in-2026-02-25-2026-0013008 Feeling unfulfilled at work but unsure how to make a change? You’re not alone. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace, 62% of professionals feel disengaged on the job. The good news is that you can take control of your career and move toward work that feels meaningful and aligned with your goals. In this webinar, Certified Career Coach and national career expert Hallie Crawford will show you how to identify what truly fulfills you, gain clarity on your ideal career path, make a successful transition, and overcome the fears and obstacles that may be holding you back. Don’t let another year pass feeling stuck. Start your career transition with confidence.

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