On May 5th, Hamlin’s east dining room was filled with the wisdom of women. Twelve dynamic Hamlin alumnae returned to campus to tell stories, speak about their professional journeys, and impart valuable advice to our Class of 2017 students.

The morning opened with Rose Helm interviewing the insightful Alexandra Suich, ’00. Suich is a journalist and serves as The Economist’s U.S. technology editor. She spoke about her love of Hamlin, sharing fond memories of writing fables in Ms. Metcalf’s English class, and contributing pieces to the Blue Stockings literary magazine. “At Hamlin, I felt the power of seeing words in print, I carried that with me through my life and into my current job at The Economist. Hamlin also inculcated my belief in championing women’s rights.” Suich spoke about the intimidation she felt when first assigned by The Economist to cover finance and hedge funds. She stuck with the finance beat and learned, “any subject can be conquered if you are willing to put in the work.” Suich also talked about the importance of not being afraid to ask basic questions to fully understand a topic. In terms of life advice, She stressed the importance of regular exercise, cultivating an inner circle of inspiring people, and knowing when to say no to potential opportunities.

After the opening interview, students had the chance to learn from the alumnae through rotating table conversations. The engagement between students and grads was profound and meaningful.

8th grader Ava L., shares her thoughts about career day in this video:

Deep appreciation to the Hamlin alumnae who joined us:

Monica Brown Andrews, ’84: In-house counsel, Equinix

Malieka Bundy, ’88: Sr. Solution Developer, Avanade

Krista Canellakis, ’96: Deputy Innovation Officer, Office of San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee

Katharine Gin, ’86: Executive Director, Educators for Fair Consideration

Amy Harrington, ’90: Attorney and Sonoma City Councilwoman

Alexis Gerber Howerton, ’99: CEO, Spruce Biosciences

Kate Larsen, ’97: Reporter, ABC7

Kaytea Petro, ’92: Protest Artist & Marketing Director, McRoskey Mattress Co.

Jenny Soong, ’99: Ecologist

Alexandra Suich, ’00: U.S. Technology Editor, The Economist

Giselle Talkoff, ’95: Police Officer, SFPD

Vera Chan Waller, ’88: Owner, Yank Sing Restaurant