Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/1001060
Of course, helping current students is something that most Latin alumni are happy to do. After the panel in April, Morris was contacted by two Latin students who were interested in aerospace engineering. Morris is currently working on having the pair visit Edwards Air Force Base in southern California so the students can better understand what is involved in flight testing. Alumni who have participated in these panels are usually impressed with Latin's current students. As an engineer at Baxter, Mylon Walker '86, creates custom automation equipment that assembles medical devices and other products sold to hospitals. He spoke on a panel in 2014 and really enjoyed the experience. "e Latin students were very much engaged," he said. "Of course, part of this had to do with how the material was presented to them. You have to make it understandable so they can relate." Cizner and Newton agree that Latin students are impressive. "I always find the students to be thoughtful about their questions and more knowledgeable than you would expect high school students to be," said Cizner. "ey ask dynamic questions that really allow the panelists to reveal all facets of their roles. I felt like I was able to give a complete Upper school history teacher, Ingrid Dorer Fitzpatrick, and lawyer Adam Weber '91 discuss international human rights law with students. picture of what I do. ey were really poking and prodding, which is great." Newton too was struck by the pointed questions. "It was evident they wanted to learn more and are thinking about their future and the real world. It was great to see them applying executive function and analysis," she said. Additionally, the program's draw at bringing alumni back on campus was by design and something that Chu envisioned when she conceived of the program. "We found that this was a way for alumni to re-engage with Latin and become involved again," said Newton, noting that some alumni might not even have been back for a class reunion. "It's a great way for alumni to get back in the building, see former teachers, meet other alums and see what the students are doing, including the technology they are using." As for what alumni gain from the program, Cizner cites the opportunity to develop and practice public speaking. She also finds it fun to see and network with other alumni, especially people in the same profession or policy area that she is in. And she is hopeful that those contacts someday will be useful. "Once you discover those connections, you never know where that relationship could take you professionally." Newton enjoys the satisfaction of reaching out and connecting to current students, but she also finds the program forces some self-reflection. "I find myself thinking about whether I am still on the right path or if there is something else I'd want to do at some point." Walker likes the giving-back aspect of the program. Not every alum can donate money, but almost everyone can give an hour of time. "You are making a difference and making an impact on students who are just beginning to think about careers," he said. Cizner is sure that the program will continue to be a great success. Of course, that is largely due to the alumni who have been so generous with their time and viewpoints. "Recognize that you have a unique story to tell," she said. "ose insights are valuable, no matter how small you think they are. e alumni community has really answered the call. [e program] is a huge testament not only to the staff, but also to the alumni community for stepping up and being proud to represent Latin as a Roman." " [The program] is a huge testament not only to the staff, but also to the alumni community for stepping up and being proud to represent Latin as a Roman." LATIN MAGAZINE ยป SUMMER 2018 37