Graduate Student Spotlight | Ivana Shuck

I first came to Hood College in 2012, to start my undergraduate studies. I am originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

For the next four years of my life, Hood College was my second home. Not only did I receive a superb education, but I also met so many amazing peers and professors, and fully immersed myself into the incredibly welcoming Frederick Community. I graduated from Hood in 2016, with a dual degree in Business and Psychology. I worked for a year before deciding to continue my education by enrolling in Hood's MBA program.

I currently work as a Graduate Student Ambassador at the Graduate School as well as full-time Community Manager at FITCI (Frederick Innovative Technology Center). FITCI is a technology incubator and accelerator, with a mission to help local tech startups grow and accelerate their businesses. We have just been named 7th largest incubator/accelerator in the State of MD (Baltimore Business Journal).

I love how relevant and current it is! Hood College faculty are always keeping up with the most current technologies and happenings in the world and their “real-life examples” approach is a part of each class.

As someone who is in a constant contact with scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators, I highly value that approach. Real life scenarios are definitely different than theoretical ones.

Hood College has a plethora of opportunities for their students. As a matter of fact, I got my first job and my current one through Hood-related networking.

My first job out of college was a result of the Hood Career Center and their continuous efforts of bringing employers to our campus, where I met with Service Coordination’s HR Director, and was hired some 30 days later. My current job came about when Dean Boulton recommended me to the CEO of FITCI for an internship, which turned into a full-time position for me almost two years ago.

I am also proud to be a graduate of Frederick County Minority Business Leaders Program, yet another opportunity brought to my attention by Hood's Graduate School.

I feel the key is to stay active and engaged. There are so many wonderful opportunities on and off campus.

For instance, I am very engaged with our Graduate Student Association, which organizes great events each month and brings together Hood graduate students who enjoy fun as well as educational gatherings. There are many events put together by the Graduate School, such as career oriented Mock Interviews, Alumni Panels, and Graduate Fairs.

Hood's Graduate School also sponsors fun events such as the Diwali Indian celebration and Dinner with the Dean. I would definitely recommend following the Graduate School’s social media account for more info on all the fun events happening around campus.

Network! Even if you feel the event might not be strictly related to your industry, you never know what connections you might make. There are some great opportunities on campus, but also downtown Frederick for students and young professionals to connect with others and exchange ideas. 

If you are an international student, I would also suggest attending International Student panels, as well as consulting with our International Student Advisor. You are also always welcome to contact me with any questions! I love to give advice and help if I can.

Inspired by Ivana's journey to #GOFURTHER in your education and career? Visit our programs including the MBA program, and click here to get additional information!