Meet Nicole Cartier!

Where are you working right now?

• I am currently working as as a Student Conduct Educator at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

What do you love about working at MIT?

• I have only been with MIT for a short amount of time, but I love the work I am doing. I am passionate about student conduct and especially Title IX, more specifically sexual assault, and the Office of Student Citizenship at MIT is allowing me to get my hands involved in both. I am even gaining experience in Clery Reporting, which is a phenomenal opportunity, especially given that I am still a graduate student, and it is a responsibility with much significance behind it.

When you aren’t working, how do you spend your free time?

• I am originally from Biddeford, Maine, so occasionally I plan weekend trips home to see my friends and family. I absolutely love being near the ocean, so any chance I can get to go sit by the water, I will take it. I also spend as much time as possible with my significant other. Working out, reading for pleasure, writing poetry, and meeting up with my International TaeKwon Do family up in Maine when I can are activities I enjoy, as well.

Who inspired you to get involved in Higher Education?

• A huge shout out goes to Colleen Ryan and Jaclyn Calovine Quinlan. Watching these young women in action in Babson College’s Community Standards office was, no doubt, what got me going with the student affairs bug.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned in your career (so far)?

• I would like to highlight two of the most valuable lessons I have learned:

• There is no right answer and no formula for the work we do, and that is okay.
• Every day is a learning experience.

What is on your Higher Ed bucket list?

• Work at a variety of institutions (small, private, public, prestigious/ ivy league, research, etc.).
• I believe I have accomplished most of this one already.
• Teach a first year seminar or first year experience course.
• Attend a national conference (NASPA or ACPA).
  • I believe I have accomplished most of this one already. I will hopefully be attending ACPA’s national conference in Montreal this upcoming year!
• Attend Gehring Academy through ASCA.
• Present at a regional or national conference (NASPA or ACPA).
• Attain my doctorate’s degree–potentially with a dissertation revolving around the ‘Imposter Syndrome.’

These are just a few that I could think of off the top of my head!

What advice would you offer to undergraduate seniors who are starting to search for grad programs?

• If there is anything I have learned, we all end up where we are supposed to be, so be bold and take chances when you are applying to graduate schools. Every program has something great, something special and unique to offer; find out what it is.