Mary Henderson understands the experiences of a first-generation college student because she was one. In reflecting on those times, she still appreciates how she benefited from the support she received as she made her way into the world post college. Over the years, she has managed and mentored individuals and groups in various functional areas across several industries, including businesses such as Gillette and EMC/Dell Technologies. Now, Mary is empowering a first-generation college student in the transition from college to career as a volunteer coach through FirstGen Ahead. In doing so, she offers extensive knowledge from her expertise in different industries, most notably healthcare, as her student is interested in working in the healthcare field.

Mary’s philosophy and approach to coaching is to “establish a relationship that is open, available, and based on mutual respect and trust.” She also feels that, if possible, an element of fun is great to add to the mix. Mary is pleased that her student is comfortable enough to share the accomplishments and the challenges that she is experiencing.

Seven months into the coaching relationship, Mary believes she has been most effective as a sounding board for her student as her career focus has evolved from healthcare to healthcare/public health law. What she most enjoys in this role is “connecting with talented and smart young people and sharing experiences and insights with them.” Mary also appreciates working with her fellow coaches who are thoughtful and generous with their ideas and time.

“Networking and persevering” is Mary’s advice to first-generation college students as they prepare to enter the workforce. She says, “Write that letter, make that call – it gets easier and soon you will find that you are learning a lot about yourself and even enjoying the process!” Mary agrees with Eleanor Roosevelt who counseled, “Do one thing every day that scares you.”

If you would like to learn about serving as a FirstGen Ahead coach for the upcoming academic year, please contact susan@firstgenahead.org.