Administrative Program Manager, Transforming Stories, Spaces, and Lives project, Wellesley College

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November 17, 2025

Can you describe your career path and how it has led to your current work?Headshot of Bailey Ludwig

As a graduate student at Brandeis, I worked as the program assistant for the Mandel Center for the Humanities. My experience in academic administration paired with my knowledge of the humanities made me a good candidate for the position I currently have. Outside of academic admin, I’ve worked in special collections and research positions. Even though my current position isn’t directly related to that experience, I still find the skills I learned useful—like managing a website or working with a team. 

What does a typical day/week look like for you in this position?

My typical tasks include organizing events for students and faculty, overseeing the student research fellow cohort, and distributing calls for applications. 

What skills from your Brandeis degree have you found most valuable in your current work?

I find my writing skills and experience working with students very useful. Most of all, having completed a PhD in a humanities field has given me the language and knowledge necessary to navigate an academic environment. 

What advice do you have for current students as they embark on their career exploration or job search?

Try to take advantage of the resources on campus and opportunities for professional development on and off campus. I found connections and work experience to be the most useful when applying. Have people (especially people in the field you want to work in) look at your resumes and/or CVs. Each field has its own norms for application materials and repeatedly revising can make your writing more concise and impactful.