Alumni return to inspire: sharing pathways to success with future biostatisticians
This October, VCU Biostatistics alumni returned to campus, not only to share their career journeys but to give back to current students by offering real-world insights and advice on building fulfilling careers.
The panel, featuring Wendy B. London, Ph.D., Anthony Segreti, Ph.D., Donald Stablein, Ph.D., and Jim Esinhart, Ph.D., served as a rich resource for students eager to learn from the experiences of those who were once in their shoes.
Jim Esinhart, who now serves as an investor and consultant after three decades in the industry, encouraged students to “hang on to your notes,” reminding them that seemingly irrelevant topics might become valuable later. He urged them to recognize that education is an investment, one that reveals its worth over time.
Donald Stablein, former president of Emmes, echoed this perspective, adding that the journey often reveals unexpected paths. He emphasized that being prepared means staying open to what’s around you. “You don’t know where you’re going,” he shared, “so be open and grow with what’s happening now.”
Alumni encouraged students to seek out classes that challenge them. Wendy London, now a professor at Harvard Medical School, reflected on how she wished she’d taken a genetics course instead of a seemingly easier course. Looking back, she recognized the value of stretching herself, advising students to do the same.
Anthony Segreti shared his own memories of the importance of lab work, which helped him gain hands-on experience with real-world problems. Now Program Chair of the Biopharmaceutical Applied Statistics Symposium, he reminded students that “seemingly unimportant activities will be the basis for your career.”
As the alumni shared more advice, a few themes stood out: stay open, develop unique expertise, and work on communication skills. “Learn how to talk to non-statisticians,” Segreti emphasized, highlighting the need to bridge technical expertise with clear communication. London agreed, stressing that the ability to collaborate across fields is key.
London also offered a refreshing take on individuality in the job market: “You don’t have to be like everyone else,” she assured students, adding that hiring diverse skill sets and perspectives often strengthens a team.
Throughout the conversation, Esinhart emphasized enjoying the journey, saying, “Have fun. I’d do it all over again.” The panel left students with a powerful message: that alumni, even years after graduating, are cheering for their success.
For more stories of alumni impact and ways to support our students, visit our website.
Categories Alumni