Stephanie Nowak ’10, M.A. ’12: First Job

by Erin Donohue

Stephanie Nowak ’10, M.A. ’12, is a human resources (HR) generalist for MakerBot Industries, an innovative company developing 3-D printers in Brooklyn. This is her first full-time job after she graduated from Adelphi University, earning a master’s degree in psychology with an industrial/organizational concentration, along with an advanced certificate in human resource management. 

When beginning her job search, Ms. Nowak focused her efforts on the field of human resources. She found MakerBot Industries through online research and a job posting on Indeed.com. “The idea of 3-D printing in an ever-evolving technological world was appealing to me, and I really wanted to be a part of such a creative and innovative company,” Ms. Nowak said.

“The job hunting process was challenging but exciting,” she recalled. In accepting the position, she went with her gut feeling. She knew she wanted to be at MakerBot.

Ms. Nowak offers advice to future graduates (and all job seekers) that includes utilizing LinkedIn, building your professional network and keeping in touch with your college professors.

“I would also recommend students’ frequently updating their résumé with skills, activities and honors related to the position they are seeking,” she said. “Students should take advantage of the networking and leadership activities that Adelphi has to offer, including C.O.A.C.H. and the Leadership Certificate Program.”

What is a typical day like for Ms. Nowak? There is no typical day in HR, she said. “One day I could be handling a medical claim issue for an employee, and the next I could be filling out an accident report,” she said. “Every day is different in HR, and I am learning more than I ever thought I would. It is truly rewarding to be part of the company I am in.”

In terms of culture, she finds MakerBot cultivates a great sense of community. It is a creative and positive work environment that fosters growth and development. The culture infuses her HR role. “I was given the opportunity to onboard dedicated and innovative employees [to] become immersed in [the] world of 3-D printing [at] a unique and evolving start-up company,” she said. “It is very rewarding.”