Betz Kerley Sometimes when choosing a career, it pays to “think outside the box.” While many IHE alumni find their bliss at colleges and universities, a few end up on an entirely different career path. Genie Snyder Chamberlin is a good example of someone who chose a different route. She had already worked on four college campuses before attending the Institute. Her experiences ranged from admissions to alumni relations, enrollment management to development. “Higher Education has always been my passion,” shares Chamberlin. “My goal in getting a doctorate was to build on both my current work experience and to expand my educational background, specifically in higher ed.” Chamberlin, president of Snyder Remarks, Inc. a consulting and educational company based in Athens, Georgia, serves clients nationally and internationally. “When I graduated from IHE, I had transitioned into consulting and training,” explains Chamberlin. “I enjoyed working in higher education and business; my favorite work is when I get to combine the two.” She adds, “The doctorate in higher education allowed me to deepen my higher education experience on an academic level, blending with my work experience – which made everything from the History of Higher Education to Higher Ed Law come to life.” Chamberlin’s workdays are never boring. One day she may be speaking at a conference and then the next day she will be hired to do executive coaching with a university or business leader. Teaching on a college or corporate campus is also part of her job description. “My focus in my dissertation on mission development and campus cultural change has been a backbone to my consulting and speaking practice,” says Chamberlin. Dr. Chamberlin shares some of the lessons learned at IHE that have helped in her career. “Know the history of higher ed so that you can see the future. Be sure of your data. Dig deeper until you know more. Study, listen to and be open to other people’s theories before developing your own. Continually assess your work, less you miss something. Higher Ed is a moving target, built on tradition but grown through trial. Trust the process.” Chamberlin concludes by sharing, “I learn something from each experience that helps me be more prepared for the next. That lifelong learning thing is truly what drives me.” Choosing the right career can take IHE alumni on many different paths. Knowing your passion can make the journey all the more satisfying. Type of News/Audience: Alumni 2013 IHE Report
