"We were excited to have Rebecca join us because she’s had an exciting career that mirrors a lot of students’ experiences — going into English assuming that teaching is right for them, realizing their interests had changed, pursuing a different direction that utilizes their core skills learned in undergrad and thriving in that space," Harris said. "Rebecca is communicating with folks, using critical thinking and technology to edit her programs and parse down important information into sound bites."

English and humanities junior Abby Brooks assisted in coordinating the event. “I’m looking forward to hearing the answers our speaker has. I think she’s got some really good insight, especially because she’s in an industry that most English majors may not know is an option,” Brooks said.

When offering guidance, Hector told students the reality of her experiences.

“When I was a college student, I was actually quite lost. I did not have a very straight career trajectory. My path to the job that I have now is kind of crazy and all over the place. So I’m hoping that if there’s somebody else here who doesn’t quite know what direction that they’re going to take, I want them to know that it is okay," Hector said. "There’s a lot of exploring to be done, and it’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do for the rest of your life when you’re twenty, because I don’t think I figured that out until my thirties.”

Hector discovered public radio when working a run-of-the-mill office job stuffing envelopes in her late twenties, first encountering the show, “This American Life” on the air. She then became an intern at WKAR.

"That was my first internship in public radio," Hector said.

Based on her experience, Hector stressed the importance of internships, and trying out new things, even if you're is uncertain.

Hector recalled how part of what made the interviews for her past internships successful was she tried to make connections wherever she went, noting that "mini bonds" were formed.

"Definitely something I think that has gotten me far in this industry is just making those connections. When you do, people remember you,” Hector said.

Embracing uncertainty is also essential, as that is what got Hector through to where she is now. 

Her advice to students also included "saying yes to everything." Specifically, taking every opportunity to learn skills of differing yet connected natures — for those trying to work in radio journalism or broadcasting, that includes reporting, editing, and various digital skills.

"Rebecca shared stories about times where she had an opportunity to work on a big project and it terrified her and she still said yes to it. It’s also extremely important to know that there are hundreds of thousands of Spartans around the globe who are rooting for our students and want to help them be successful by offering advice and opportunities," Harris said. "If students attended because they were interested in working in public radio, Rebecca provided concrete information about how to get an internship with 'Michigan Public.' We want to expand the students’ network and understanding of career opportunities."