Encouraging Stories: Meg Duncan '09
Meg Duncan '09 studied exercise science and anthropology during her time at Skidmore. She is now the Youth & Collegiate Development Program Manager at USA Triathlon in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The Skidmore College Career Development Center believes that the principals of the Chaos Theory of Careers to be most applicable for liberal arts students in the current economic climate. In this model, career development is recognized as a dynamic system characterized by complexity, interconnectedness, and susceptibility to change.
The following is part of the CDC’s Encouraging Stories Series featuring members of the Class of 2009. During the last major economic downturn,
these individuals exhibited these characteristics as they navigated the early stages
of their own careers. Below are stories and advice in their own words.
In what ways has your career path since Skidmore been non-linear? How did your Skidmore experience inform this path?
After Skidmore, I moved out to Colorado to explore job opportunities. I had intended
to go to grad school but given the 2009 economic climate, I opted to try and get into the workforce.
I decided to take a low-pay job to be in a state that I was excited to live. I saw
paid internship opportunities through the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee
and decided to apply for one in Sport Performance. It combined my passion for research,
working with athletes, and aspects of my degree. After the internship, I was able
to stay within the Olympic movement, working for a National Governing Body, USA Triathlon.
The diversity of my Skidmore education allowed me to adapt and facilitate each role
that I served and I now oversee youth development programming which is something I didn't know I was passionate about until recently. I've been able to combine my education and experience to bring certain skills to my job.
What kinds of knowledge or skills did you unexpectedly use to navigate a difficult economic period?
Adaptability. You might not land your dream job right now, but taking jobs that have components of what you're passionate about is key.
What insights or advice do you have for others with similar backgrounds, or pursuing a similar path?
Be patient! Having a low-pay job as well as a paid internship was not ideal after graduating from Skidmore. However, learning how to do mundane tasks and challenging projects is something that set me up for success in my career today.