Alumni Profile: Denise Anderson

Q&A

• Q. Where are you employed? What is your Title?
• Clemson University, Assistant Professor
• Q. What is your favorite part of your job?
• Working with undergraduate and graduate students to help them prepare for a job in our field – to help them prepare to give people a better quality of life
• Q. What do you consider to be your most valuable contribution to your organization for which you work?
• My experience in the field of PRTM – I worked in both campus recreation and pubic parks and recreation before receiving my PhD as well as my administrative capabilities
• Q. Given your career path, where do you see yourself in 10 years?
• Still a faculty member in PRTM, possibly an administrative position although right now I guess I already have 2 as I serve as curriculum coordinator for Community Recreation, Sport and Camp Management as well as our graduate program co-coordinator
• Q. Do you have any words of advice/recommendations? a. for undergrads still searching for a major-would you recommend RST and why?, b. for the undergrads currently in the program c. for the senior currently looking for his/her first position.
• a. Yes, even if you choose not to work in the field, I think RST graduates are among the most well rounded and suited to do a wide variety of jobs. If you choose to work in the field – what a great experience to be able to help others increase their quality of life.
  b. Get all the experience you can while a student and network, network, network.
  c. Be willing to move anywhere for that first job if it’s a good opportunity – you don’t have to stay forever and you can get some great experience…there is a world outside of Illinois (although, sadly, no other Papa Del’s)
• Q. Please add anything else that might be helpful.
• n/a