By Jordan Beach
Jennifer Thompson
Jennifer Thompson not only earned her degree at Reinhardt University, her invested faculty enabled her to explore her options as she looked to her future and through a shift in career.
Thompson graduated from Reinhardt University in 2003 with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree in communication arts. Following graduation, Thompson began her 15-year career as a technical writer.
“Immediately after graduating, I began my career as a technical writer, using my communication skills to create instructional material for software users,” said Thompson.
Recently, Thompson shifted her career in a new direction.
“After about 15 years, I made a complete 180 degrees switch from a corporate job to my current role working one-on-one with children with autism to help them meet communication and social skill goals. I also run a small ‘business’ here in Charlotte that provides social/emotional training to children facing adversity.”
While Thompson has found much success in her career, she didn’t always know what direction to take. Professor Dr. Yelvington, however, provided the guidance she needed.
“Dr. Yelvington was such a blessing to me. I only took one class with him but he left such a big impact on my life,” said Thompson. “I was one of those students that had no idea what I wanted to do with my degree after graduation and Dr. Y was my biggest cheerleader and motivator. I never pictured myself working in Corporate America, but Dr. Y gave me the confidence to crush it as a technical writer and make a huge career change later in life.”
Reinhardt’s faculty offered Thompson knowledge on what to do beyond her time at college, and Thompson now encourages current students to not fear life beyond the classroom.
“Enjoy your time at college. Explore areas that interest you and don’t feel like you have to have it all ‘figured out’ by graduation.”
As a commuter, Thompson found as many ways to get involved on campus as she could.
“I connected with others by participating in as many student activities and events, volunteering my time at campus events and playing intramural sports.”
