Deacon Spotlight: Sophia Bredice

Sophia Bredice (BA 2015 Biology & History)

Assistant Director of Client Services in Information Systems at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC

Tell us about your current job role/employer and what you’re currently working on.

I manage a team tasked with improving the user experience for technical and digital initiatives on campus and leading communication and change management for technology implementations (most recently our new learning management system, Canvas). We have been working on creating a digital internal conference experience showcasing the creative and collaborative use of technology on campus, TechX, which launches in March.

What personal and/or career experiences did you have prior to landing your current job and leading to where you are now?

I was an intern at the Government Accountability Office for a summer during the Wake Washington Program where I participated in the review of confidential government technology initiative. I was able to work with a cross functional team to evaluate the program, identify areas needing improvement, conduct interviews, and write the official review. I believe this experience got my foot in the floor in the IT world when interviewing with the IS department.

What advice would you give to new Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college?

Challenge yourself; you really do not know what you like and how you want to live your life until you try new things. For example, give yourself a goal, like saving XX per month, working out in the morning, connecting with family and friends once every day. That goes hand in hand with making sure you are not too hard on yourself when something does not work out. You have time to build your routine and find out what works for you.

How have you made personal and professional relationships in your city, company, or community?

The first year of so of my job, I took a part time job at a restaurant to expand my circle and make a little extra money – it was a very rewarding experience. I also started playing intramural sports to build connections with people outside of work.

Have you been mentored by anyone at Wake Forest or in your professional life? If so, what impact has that relationship had on you?

I am very fortunate to have been mentored by many people at Wake Forest. It is invaluable having a support system and sounding board to help navigate tricky work and personal waters. Trust is the key to these mentorship relationships, especially when you work at the same place as many of these mentors. I always know I have a place to turn and my experiences and challenges remain with them.

What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are about to start their first professional job?

Be present and save your voice – have your actions make your first impressions. Be truly present in your meetings and when working with people, show people you care about the work, see an opportunity and volunteer to work on it. You will not have all the answers. Take the time to learn the culture and be mindful about when and what to speak up about – silence is a powerful thing! It shows restraint and thoughtfulness.

Story published in April 2020. For current updates about Sophia, check out LinkedIn.