Stevens News / Alumni Stories and Spotlights

Stevens Alumni Volunteer Voices: Jennifer Searing ’21 M.S. ’22

Jennifer Searing ’21 M.S. ’22, a Risk & Compliance Analytics senior consultant at Protiviti, has a deep appreciation for the educational and career development opportunities she received at Stevens. Volunteering is her way of saying thank you, while supporting new generations of Stevens students.

NAME: Jennifer Searing
CLASS YEAR AND MAJOR: 2021, B.S. Quantitative Finance; 2022, M.S. Business Intelligence & Analytics
STEVENS VOLUNTEER ROLES: Speaker at business classes, speaker at Protiviti recruiting events, career fair representative for Protiviti, attendee at new student sendoff barbecue, Class of 2021 president, and other alumni engagement activities.
STEVENS VOLUNTEER SINCE (YEAR): 2021

How/why did you decide to contribute your time as a Stevens volunteer?

I was afforded so many opportunities at Stevens — from strong academics to leadership roles and professional connections — and I wanted to help current students access similar experiences. Giving back feels like a way to say thank you while supporting the next generation of Ducks. I also hope to see more successful Stevens grads join companies like mine and thrive in their careers.

What drew you to your particular volunteer activity or activities?

I enjoy speaking with current and incoming students, sharing my own journey, and hearing their stories. It’s rewarding to answer questions, offer advice, and hopefully make their path a little clearer.

What excites you most about what you do for Stevens?

I love meeting students who are ambitious, curious, and full of fresh ideas — their energy is inspiring. Volunteering also helps me stay connected to classmates and the Stevens community even as my career evolves.

How has volunteering for Stevens impacted you personally?

Volunteering for Stevens has helped me grow as a professional and a mentor. Talking with students has reminded me how far I’ve come since graduation and has strengthened my pride in being part of the Stevens network. I’ve also built meaningful relationships with fellow alumni and future colleagues.

What do you feel is the impact of alumni involvement in the university?

Alumni bring real-world experience and a perspective that feels relatable because we once walked the same campus, took the same classes, and faced similar decisions. That shared background helps students see what’s possible after graduation in a way that feels authentic and achievable. By mentoring, recruiting, and supporting events, alumni bridge the gap between college and career and show students they’re part of a strong network that wants them to succeed.

What would you say to other alumni who were considering volunteering at Stevens?

Start small — attend an event, speak to a class, or connect with a student who’s interested in your field. You don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference. Sharing your story can inspire someone, open a door, or simply reassure them that they’re on the right track. It’s incredibly rewarding to give back to the place that helped shape you.