STEM Alumni in 5

Jessica McFarlin '14

Jessica McFarlin '14

Employer
IT Application Analysis Manager

1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Once I graduated from GVSU, I moved to Lansing for a position at Jackson National Life. This was the start of a 9-year journey in Information Technology. I also met my husband here, he's also a math major! I've held a few different positions - most recently in people leadership. I helped the State of Michigan implement a new ERP system and configured its tax reporting processes. My current role is in Data and Reporting for a Metro-Detroit-based Auto Lender called Credit Acceptance. My team is responsible for providing the company with reporting that helps them make strategic decisions and keep operations running smoothly. I've worked hard at coaching my team to apply the critical thinking skills I learned while getting my degree. My boss is a laker alumni as well! I have a 2-year-old son named Otis and we just moved into a new house in Brighton.

2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
My favorite memories are the day-to-day study sessions I would have in Mackinac with friends. It would always end up in a hang-out as more people would walk through. I also loved meeting up for the football games on the weekend and rooting for the Lakers, we had a great season most years I attended. I also appreciated being able to spend time in the new library, posting up at a window and getting a great view of campus.

3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
It's new until it's not new. As soon as you get through trying something the first time it's not as scary. Professor Fishback, whom I had Operations Research with really taught me how to analyze a problem, I really appreciate the perspective he gave. He taught that you have understood where you are starting in solving the problem because it will impact how you go about solving it.

4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand Valley experience.
Formative, empowering, and challenging.

5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I want to teach people about how important it is to show up for others in the way they want to be supported. We all have a responsibility to do the right thing, but it's important to consider how we are giving that support. Think about the feelings of others, even if you think your contributions don't matter.

February 2023

Interest Area(s)
Mathematics

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Page last modified February 8, 2023