Learning From Experience

"There is this saying that is the basis of Zen philosophy, which is life is one continuous mistake. It’s this circle of continuous learning through mistakes and through experiences. Don’t be afraid." After a life on the road as a touring musician, Peter Costa attended Arizona State University to pursue a degree in physics from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as well as a degree in music composition. Listen to Costa discuss how embracing mistakes and asking questions can lead to entrepreneurial success.

"'Perfect' is an allusion. Let yourself enjoy the experience and let yourself learn," said Courtney Barger. Barger earned two degrees from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2020, one in economics and the other in justice studies. She then went on to complete law school. Listen to Barger discuss how her dual degrees helped her become an adaptable law student.

"Trial and error is not the enemy. Even though it’s hard, [that] doesn’t mean it’s impossible. So, try to see what you can do... and try as many things as you possibly can," said Hannah Johnson. Johnson graduated with two bachelor’s degrees from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2021, one in philosophy and the other in political science. Currently, she works as a policy advisor for the Office of the Arizona Governor. Listen to Johnson discuss how experiencing many diverse internships helped develop her career.

“At the end of the day, the most important thing is pouring into your own cup.” Elaissia Sears obtained her BA in global studies with a minor in German from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2017. In 2019, Sears became the youngest person, and the third African American woman in Arizona history, elected Justice of the Peace for the West Mesa Justice Court. Hear her reflect on how she balances a fulfilling life of public service as an elected official but remains grounded.

Rayne Simmonds earned a Bachelor of Arts in film and media studies from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2018. She reflected on her career as a junior creative producer and how a move to Los Angeles developed her artistic approach. "I wanted to make the next step into full-time creative," noted Simmonds. "I’m able to learn, grow, fail... all of those things, but under the guidance of someone who’s a lot more experienced than me." Hear more of Simmonds’ insights into how the ASU community helped her on journey.

"Because of my life experiences, all the things I went through... the only thing I could do is to go to school and get a higher education, so that someday I would be able to advocate for the voiceless," said Murray. Prince Murray fled conflict in Liberia and settled in the United States as a child. Despite numerous obstacles, he completed his bachelor’s degree in political science with honors from the School of Politics and Global Studies at The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2021. Hear Murray explain his drive to turn his challenges and education at ASU into a career of community and public service.

Madison Billingsley earned a biochemistry degree from the School of Molecular Sciences and a global health degree from the School of Human Evolution and Social Change from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2020. Billingsley then went on to receive a master’s degree in international health from another prestigious university. Now, she’s on the path to her dream career by attending medical school. “What I’m passionate about is education and empowering people to feel confident in their knowledge, especially when it comes to health,” said Billingsley. Hear Billingsley discuss her academic journey toward medical school and how she’s utilizing the skills she learned at ASU in the field of public health.

Emma Lauer is on a mission to teach people how to make emotional sensitivity their super power. After graduating from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2014 with degrees in psychology and English literature, she went on to earn her master’s in social work. Now, as a mental health therapist with a passion for literature, Lauer has published her first book, DBT Skills for Highly Sensitive People. Hear her discuss how her degrees shaped her career path as well as insights into her book.

Reyna Montoya founded Aliento, a nonprofit organization serving undocumented, DACA and mixed-immigration status families, in 2016. Montoya earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and transborder studies from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a minor in dance in 2012. She then obtained a master’s degree in secondary education from another prestigious university. Hear her discuss the importance of fostering supportive communities and how immigration impacts us all.

"I personally can’t write anything without pouring a part of myself into it, so when you get rejections those can be hard. Don’t let the ‘nos’ hit hard... all you need is one ‘yes,’" said screenwriter Josh Estes. A Double Sun Devil, Estes received his bachelor’s degree from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication and then earned a Master of Advanced Study (MAS) in American media and popular culture from the Department of English at The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. In this episode, he reflected on his journey in the entertainment industry. Hear him discuss how he manages the ebbs and flows of Hollywood and his thoughtful advice to other aspiring screenwriters to break into the competitive field.

Altina Boney is a proud Arizona State University alumna, Sun Devil superfan and freelance content creator. She completed her master’s degree in communication online through the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication in 2022. "(Being a Sun Devil) means being there for each other. As much as you are proud of yourself, I’m proud of you. The entire ASU family, staff and professors are proud of you," said Boney. Hear her experience as an online student and the importance of her continued connection to the ASU community post-graduation.

A lifelong lover of fossils, Paige is on a mission to make human evolution as culturally interesting as dinosaurs. In 2020, she received her PhD in history and philosophy of science from the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. Hear her insights into becoming a successful science writer — including publishing in National Geographic — and carving her own interdisciplinary career path as a journalist and scientist.

After graduating with a major in biological sciences and minors in global health and psychology, Anna took a gap year to work as a full-time medical scribe and experience hands-on what it's like to work in medicine. In preparing her medical school application, she took advantage of several resources at ASU, including Pre-Health Advising, faculty mentors and more. Hear her advice on writing your personal statement, obtaining letters of recommendation and how to give the best first impression to medical school admissions committees.

When Brandon was about to graduate with a degree in film and media studies, he was working as a Starbucks barista. He wasn’t sure how he would be able to launch his career as a writer and still pay his bills. After picking up various writing side jobs, he was finally able to land a position as a video game proofreader. That was the beginning of a successful career in video game writing. Hear Brandon’s advice on setting expectations at graduation, leaning on others and finding your own career path.

As a first-generation college student, Alyssa never considered getting an advanced degree until she gained research experience as an undergraduate student at ASU. After graduating with degrees in psychology and neuroscience in 2019, she practiced patience, persistence and grace to follow her dream of becoming a clinical neuropsychologist. She eventually got accepted to a doctoral program at Northwestern University. Hear Alyssa's insights on applying to and completing a doctoral program.

Jeff is a professional basketball player that has played for the NBA and for teams across the world. His experiences on and off the court have taught him to keep trudging through the mud to find long-term success. Hear his advice for students and recent grads and how his degree in economics and minor in African and African American studies have informed his life and career.

Sam Laubach is a brand strategist, stand-up comedian, queer advocate and devoted cat dad. While living in New York City, Sam completed their ASU Online degree in film and media studies, which they describe as "an English degree for people who can’t read." Hear Sam discuss developing your personal and professional brand identity and answering the infamous interview question "Tell me about yourself."

Ben Ellis started at ASU as a theatre major. Then he switched to communication, a degree that has been integral to his success in real estate. Having discovered the real estate industry during the Great Recession, Ben founded E + G Real Estate in 2013 from the bedroom of his home. Hear his tips for "playing it big" and setting yourself up for long-term success.

As a junior embryologist, Karen Amos helps patients find out why they may be struggling to get pregnant. Her work in the fertility industry is informed by an unexpected background: education. In this episode, Karen discusses the transferable skills of leadership, communication, empathy and adaptability.

After receiving degrees in English literature and film and media studies at ASU, Luu Nguyen loaded up her car and moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of becoming a film editor. There she built a successful career working for world-renowned companies like Disney, Warner Bros and Dreamworks. But her career success led her to reflect on what was really important in life. Hear how Luu learned to prioritize her relationships and mental health, and transitioned from "dream job" to "dream life."