Young Alumni Stories

Who says it takes years to start your own business, climb the corporate ladder, travel the world or make a difference in your community? Not the hundreds of University of Nebraska-Lincoln young alumni around the country who have already accomplished these things and more! Read their stories here, and check back often as we add to our library of young alumni stories.

Nominate Someone
Do you know any young alumni who have excelled in their careers or have made a difference in their communities? Tell us! Send an email with some brief background information to alumni@huskeralum.org, and be sure to put "Young Alumni Stories" in the subject line.

The alumni association also features outstanding young alumni in our members-only publication, Nebraska Magazine. Check out these stories about recent graduates:

	David Graff A graduate of UNL's Raikes School of Computer Science and Management, David is co-founder and CEO of a company that supplies cutting-edge game preparation software to three NFL teams, 10 Division I college football teams, and over 1,300 smaller colleges, high schools, and youth teams. Current City: Lincoln, Neb. UNL Graduation year and major: BSBA, Accounting – 2005; MBA – 2006 *Q: Tell us about your career focus. What is your current job, and what is your long-term goal?* A: I work at Agile Sports, a company that I and two of my fellow Raikes School graduates, Brian Kaiser and John Wirtz, started here in Lincoln. We provide online tools for sports teams to collaborate on their video, playbooks, and presentations. We started in 2006 with the Huskers, and have grown our partners to now include three NFL teams, 10 Division I college football teams, and over 1,300 smaller colleges, high schools, and youth teams. Our long-term goal is to see all 32 NFL, 120 Division I football teams, and 18,000+ smaller colleges and high schools on board with Hudl (Agile Sports' interactive playbook system). *Q: Name one thing about your job people might be interested to know.* A: We spend every day at our offices trying to figure out ways to help our coaches win, so when one of our teams struggles we definitely feel it around the office. Back before we added our high school packages, it was a lot easier to keep track of each of their wins and losses, but we still try to keep track of which of our teams are playoff-bound or are playing big rivalry games. The offseason is also very interesting for us with the coaching changes that occur at all levels. Seeing where coaches who currently use Hudl end up going or which coaches end up joining teams that currently use Hudl keeps us very busy. *Q: How do you give back to your community?* A: Since our company is built around sports, we have kept our community involvement focused in the same area. For the second year in a row, we were a corporate sponsor for the Nebraska Shrine Bowl and this year, a member of our team was able to fly down to visit the St. Louis Shriner's Hospital with one of the Shrine Bowl squads. It was an awesome experience and it was great to see the Shriner's efforts firsthand. A number of our coaches who use Hudl also run charity camps in different locations around the country and we are involved with many of those camps, including Pete Carroll's Win Forever Academy that benefits his charity, "A Better LA". *Q: Anything else you would like to share about your life after UNL?* A: During my five years at UNL, I only missed six total football games (home, road, or bowl games). Since starting the company, a lot of my fall weekends have been spent at games that don't involve the Huskers, but I still try to make it to as many Husker games as possible. *Q: How did UNL help to prepare you for success in your career?* A: Our education at UNL put us in an awesome position to start our own company. Right away in our freshman year in the Raikes School, we were working on projects that gave us real-world experience and by our junior years, through the Raikes School Design Studio, we were working directly with paying clients on year-long software projects. We were getting real-world experiences collecting business requirements, laying out timelines, and developing and testing deliverable software that would actually be put to use in a business setting. This put us way ahead when starting our company. *Q: Who was your favorite faculty/staff member at UNL, and why?* A: Chancellor Perlman taught us Intellectual Property Law during one of our seminars my senior year at the Raikes School and he was an awesome professor. I learned a lot in that course, and he also provided us with a lot of advice as we first were starting the company. *Q: What is your favorite campus memory?* A: That's a tough one...I had a lot of good times during my five years at UNL. The ones that probably stick out the most are Husker sports related, so I'd probably choose the 2001 football season (my freshman year) when I got to see the Huskers beat Notre Dame and Oklahoma at home, witness the emotional post-9/11 Thursday night game, and make the trip out to the Rose Bowl for the National Championship (although that game itself was not one of my fondest memories…). *Q: As an alum, what makes you most proud of UNL today?* A: 16 of our 18 full-time employees are UNL graduates and all of our interns have been UNL students. The talent pool that comes out of the university and the excellent job that the school does preparing students to immediately enter the workforce makes me very proud. *Q: What is your advice for other recent graduates?* A: Stay connected with your classmates, your professors, and everyone you built relationships with when you were at the university. Even though I am only a few years removed from UNL, these connections have already paid huge dividends for me and our company. To learn more about David Graff's company, Agile Sports, visit www.hudl.com.
	Rachel Enstrom Rachel graduated just four years ago but already serves as president of Chicagoans for Nebraska, volunteers for several Chicago civic organizations and has started a successful career at CareerBuilder.com, where her clients include NBC Universal, Sonic, Arb'’s, UPS and more. Current City: Chicago UNL Graduation year and major: Bachelor of Journalism (Advertising) - 2006 *Q: Tell us about your career focus. What is your current job, and what is your long-term goal?* A: I currently work at CareerBuilder.com as a product manager for Design Services, specifically in Careerbuilder Media. I help clients design and enhance their current recruitment branding by providing agency-like creative services. We help our advertisers target the most relevant candidates, while delivering their message through a variety of media products. I love working in Downtown Chicago surrounded by tall skyscrapers that I dreamt of living amongst when I was younger. My long-term goal is to eventually become a creative director on the agency side specializing in consumer brands. I have not owned a car for four years and commute by Chicago transportation – bus or train – to and from work every day. Even though I live about five miles away from Downtown Chicago, it takes me about an hour to get home because of traffic! P.S. – My neighbor is Wrigley Field! *Q: Name one thing about your job people might be interested to know.* A: My client list includes NBC Universal, Pepsico, Sonic, Arby's, UPS, United Airlines, Hostess Brands and much more! I get the privilege of working with several companies (largest in the world to small business owners) on a daily basis to help enhance their recruitment brand! *Q: How do you give back to your community?* A: I am the president of Chicagoans for Nebraska Alumni Chapter, which gives me the opportunity to work with alumni from all over the world to share the common experience of being a Nebraska Cornhusker fan! I work with a network of former Nebraska coaches and players living in the city of Chicago and surrounding areas to help sponsor their individual charitable organizations (i.e., Matt Davison and his foundation, Creating Captains). Living in the heart of the Big Ten Conference, I get to educate and entertain people on the loyal fan base of Nebraska that I was born into and have cheered for over 26 years! Serving as the president of the Downtown Chicago Chi Omega Alumnae Chapter, I work closely with members of Chi Omega Fraternity to enrich the lives of women in the Chicago area through networking, philanthropy and social events. I also work closely with the undergraduate women of Chi Omega at DePaul University and Northwestern University to help with recruitment and advising of their collegiate chapters. Our philanthropy is Make-A-Wish, and I have become a regular volunteer with the local Illinois chapter in Chicago. I am also a freelance designer and I help out with many annual Chi O fundraisers in Chicago. My older sister was diagnosed at birth with Tuberous Sclerosis (TS), a genetic disease that causes tumors to form in the vital organs causing seizures to happen. I was lucky enough to join the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance in Illinois right away when I moved to Chicago to ensure I always keep my sister's disease visible to people around me. I volunteer and help organize the Comedy for a Cure, an annual event raising money for research for TS with support from local businesses and individuals that have been affected by this disease. I also volunteer my time to Chicago Cares, which provides opportunities for individuals and businesses to improve the Chicago community through participation in creative, structured group volunteer programs that address Chicago's most pressing needs. The program helps meet the needs in education (adult and children), health and wellness and senior services. *Q: Anything else you would like to share about your life after UNL?* A: I would have to say that I miss the simple life of Lincoln, where it's an easy drive to the grocery store, and you can see your family on the weekends. I have never regretted my decision of buying a one-way ticket to Chicago after graduation to follow my dreams; however, to those still living in Lincoln: embrace the trees, grass and your local surroundings that make Nebraska such a warm state to be from. While I now call Chicago home, Nebraska is always in my heart! *Q: How did UNL help to prepare you for success in your career?* A: I was lucky enough to be involved in some great organizations and clubs that taught me teamwork, multitasking, organization, dependability and, most of all, leadership. I was able to communicate with senior level faculty and staff at the university, which prepared me for the level of client interaction I deal with daily. I put my heart and soul into every college experience I was involved in, which I have continued in Chicago through my volunteer involvement and alumni chapter work. *Q: Who was your favorite faculty/staff member at UNL, and why?* A: Stacy James, lecturer in advertising, gave me the specific steps to take to be ready for an agency-like career. I realized her level of commitment was like no other. She was determined to help me succeed above and beyond my expectations from the first class I took with her, to helping me with her circle of networks to interview for a job outside of Chicago. I not only learned the creative side of advertising through campaigns class but I was able to gain knowledge of her strategic business style, helping prepare me for the "real world" that lay ahead. I also loved brainstorming with her in her office because of the décor – storyboards, client props and agency materials. I knew my office was going to be like that someday! We are still in communication to see where I am going to land next in the city! *Q: What is your favorite campus memory?* A: One of my favorite campus memories is game day Saturdays. The game day experience was enhanced for those of us living on campus. Everywhere the campus was adorned with red decorations and the air was filled with the smell of Fairbury hotdogs. Waking up at 8 a.m. and donning a red T-shirt, an "N" stuck on my cheek and beads around my neck, all while humming the Nebraska fight song with my sorority roommates, was our Saturday ritual. Strolling through downtown, it was high-fives all around for the red-clad Nebraska fans and proud Cornhuskers in foam cob hats. *Q: As an alum, what makes you most proud of UNL today?* A: That no matter where I am or who I am talking to, I am reminded why we are the best fans in all sports! I truly believe our character and loyalty are easily noticed by any Husker fan. Not only am I proud to have my desktop screen saver a picture of the university campus and my cube decorated red and white, but I am most proud of the level of knowledge and achievement I received as an undergraduate that helps me as an alumni chapter president in Chicago. *Q: Tell us more about your involvement with the Chicago alumni chapter.* Yes, I serve as president! As an executive board, we have worked hard to provide an environment in Chicago for newly graduated alums to "legacies" who have the passion and drive for Nebraska athletics! Watch out Big Ten in Chicago – Nebraska is here! I truly never dreamt I would be taking Chicago transportation to a suburb to watch Nebraska play football against Northwestern! I can't wait! *Q: What is your advice for other recent graduates?* A: Get involved in your local alumni chapter right away! If there is not one in the area, don't be afraid to reach out to the Alumni Association to get interest in starting one. It was the best experience I had when moving to a big city where I knew no one. I was joined by people who proudly wore red to show their support anywhere in the city. Not only have I gained a network of contacts, but I’ve met amazing friends along the way, while sharing the Big Red! To learn more about Nebraska Alumni Association chapters, visit our Chapters & Groups page.
	Nathan Silva A 2006 UNL graduate, Nathan has already proved that you don't need years of experience to be successful as a financial advisor. In 2009, he was recognized as the top new organization associate of the year nationally for Ameritas and Unifi companies. Nathan Silva Current City: Omaha, Neb. UNL Graduation year and major: December 2006, Marketing & Management *Q: Tell us about your career focus. What is your current job, and what is your long-term goal?* A: As a financial advisor with Ameritas and Unifi companies, I share information with people that can drastically change their financial futures. With social security at a deficit, Medicare nearing bankruptcy, healthcare undergoing a major restructuring plan, AND the U.S. government nearly $13 trillion in debt, the only way to relieve the financial strain on this country is to drastically increase taxes and reduce benefits. My responsibility is to make sure people's hardearned money ends up in their families’ pockets and not the pockets of the government, hospitals, or nursing homes. Long term, I am 100 percent focused on continuing to deliver good, honest financial information to those who are seeking it. If you have further questions about these areas in particular, please feel free to contact me at njsilva99@gmail.com or 402-617-7600. *Q: Name one thing about your job people might be interested to know.* A: Being a financial advisor allows you the freedom to not only truly help as many people as you can, but to make a good living while doing so. It doesn't take high net-worth clients or a few millionaires to be successful in this business, but there are two things that are imperative. First, you must have a driving motivator to continually do the daily things needed to be successful (aside from money or the spotlight). For me, it's my wife and family that keeps me going. Second, you've got to have a good support structure around you. I'm an agent of the Nebraska Financial Center in Lincoln and have a group of 8-10 young people (and a few older) who are continuously making each other better by discussing client situations, business practices, marketing ideas, etc. In 2009, I was recognized nationwide as the top new organization associate of the year for Ameritas and Unifi companies. Of several hundred people across the nation who were in their first three years in the business, my level of production was at the top and without those other team members, none of the success I've experienced would have been possible. *Q: How do you give back to your community?* A: Well, I truly believe that the work I do for people is one extraordinary way to give back to my community. Many times, clients I meet are smart, fun, family-oriented people that have a real desire to protect their financial future – without my guidance, several of them would be in a position where the rug could be pulled out from under them at any given time. Without proper insurance and financial planning, it's almost impossible for families to really feel safe and secure about their situation and I'm able to help with that. Aside from that, I like to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. It gives me an opportunity to give back to those who are in need AND I get to learn some handyman skills at the same time. *Q: How did UNL help to prepare you for success in your career?* A: UNL gave me the opportunity to really challenge myself in several life-like scenarios before I ever even entered the "real world". In my entrepreneurship class, I was able to create a business and marketing plan for a new concept and then go out and implement it. We also were assigned to go to several networking events and learn how to communicate with local business professionals. As the National Society of Collegiate Scholars president, I also had the chance to participate in several philanthropic events which later led to connections with some of my current clients. *Q: Who was your favorite faculty/staff member at UNL, and why?* Q: Amit Saini from the CBA marketing department. His level of enthusiasm was often extremely high, and I think the most important thing he did was rather than teach the class by reading through the book and giving out a few exams, he engaged us in several discussions and mentally put us in a place to really face some of the challenges that businesses go through every day. If you have the opportunity to take any of his courses, I highly recommend it. *A: What is your favorite campus memory?* Q: When Bill Gates and Warren Buffet came and spoke to the student body. I had the chance to attend the event and it was amazing to be face-to-face with some of the wealthiest people in the world and realize they were happy to give us their time because they wanted all of us to succeed. *A: As an alum, what makes you most proud of UNL today?* Q: I've traveled all across the nation, and every time I tell someone I'm a Nebraska graduate, nothing but great things are said. The reputation that follows our school is second to none. Opportunities seem to present themselves simply because of my affiliation with UNL. With all of the ethical issues, financial problems, and outright poor programs that are out there, I consider myself lucky to be a UNL graduate. *A: What is your advice for other recent graduates?* Q: If you haven't found your career yet, I would highly recommend attending the next event that brings in local businesses to recruit from our student body. Of the classmates I've stayed in contact with, the ones who attended those events are always the ones with a job/career that makes them happy and keeps them passionate. Posting resumes online and responding to ads can work, but the best way to get an opportunity is to meet with people face-to-face. Also, if you're interested in entering the financial services industry, then you should contact Corey Poulosky with the Nebraska Financial Center (402-436-2500). This agency is a wonderful place for young people to learn the fundamentals to success, and then have the freedom to implement them how they see fit.
	Bryna Keenaghan As a UNL student, Bryna was a student manager for the Nebraska volleyball team. Seven years after graduation, she is an account planner at a San Francisco advertising agency and is now part of the team that helped create and launch the Gatorade Performance Series. Bryna Keenaghan Current City: San Francisco, Calif. UNL Graduation year and major: Bachelor of Journalism – Advertising, December 2003 *Q: Tell us about your career focus. What is your current job, and what is your long-term goal?* A: I started my career within the planning discipline at a full-service advertising agency in San Francisco (Venables Bell & Partners) after attending a two-year masters program at the VCU Brandcenter. Currently, I'm a strategist at Redscout, a strategy and innovation firm that helps brands grow through creative, brand-driven solutions. Recently, we helped create and launch the Gatorade Performance Series, which helped transform the company from a sports drink company to a sports nutrition company that meets all needs of an athlete. My long-term goal is to revolutionize a brand as a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and/or use my marketing skills to drive a non-profit that helps transform people's lives. *Q: Name one thing about your job people might be interested to know.* A: It's always new and exciting, and it doesn't feel like a job because it's something I'm extremely passionate about and love to do. *Q: How do you give back to your community?* A: Within my professional community, I find extreme pleasure in giving advice to people trying to break into the advertising/marketing industry. When I was in grad school and starting my career it was extremely useful to talk to people in the industry for guidance. However, it could be difficult to find the right people to talk to. Now that I'm in the industry, I love to share my knowledge and expertise. Feel free to reach out (bryna.keenaghan@gmail.com) if you are interested in planning/strategy. *Q: Anything else you would like to share about your life after UNL?* A: After graduating I've lived in amazing big cities like New York and San Francisco, but I would never trade being raised and going to school in the Midwest. It has given me a work ethic and perspective that most people living on the coasts will never have. *Q: How did UNL help to prepare you for success in your career?* A: UNL helped me find the passion that I wanted to pursue, as well as giving me a foundation of knowledge to build upon. It also instilled a strong work ethic in me. I had to work 30+ hours during college in addition to putting in long hours for classes – this set me up to work hard, multi-task and adjust to the craziness of life. *Q: Who was your favorite faculty/staff member at UNL, and why?* A: Magno, my Portuguese professor. I had to take classes with him three days a week, twice a day. It was an intense course, but he made it fun and bearable with his unique spirit. *Q: What is your favorite campus memory?* A: Any time the drum line came to the NU Coliseum and rocked it out during volleyball games – it took the experience to a whole new level. *Q: As an alum, what makes you most proud of UNL today?* A: It's great that the campus has seen so many renovations and new additions – the growth has been tremendous since I left. The Innovation Campus is especially exciting as it will bring more recognition to the university. I’m also extremely proud of the women's volleyball program – I was lucky enough to be a part of the team as a student manager, and I love to see their continued success. *Q: What is your advice for other recent graduates?* A: I have a few: An interview goes both ways: you should evaluate them, just as much as they are evaluating you because it's important to find a company that’s a good cultural fit if you want to be happy with your job. Find your passion(s) and follow it. There are no limits when you believe in what you're doing. Trust your gut instincts. Stay true to yourself.