E-news from Mount Olive College

How her MOC degree changed her life

Wendy Spritz

I never considered myself much of a student. My high school years were anything but memorable. I struggled with most subjects and looked forward to the freedom of being in college. It was miraculous I graduated from high school and walked down the aisle with tassles flying and a diploma in hand.

I enrolled in a small junior college in the boonies of Connecticut. They were probably desperate for the tuition and not for my mathematical or highly scientific brain. There again, I was caught between growing up, not feeling academically successful, and extremely homesick. After the first semester with maybe 1 credit under my belt, I returned home to my parent's nest.

I went to work as a junior secretary in a small advertising company. I loved it! I had my own desk, phone, paper clips and rubber bands. Life was looking up. For the next 30 years, my career as a secretary grew into that of a high level, executive assistant.

I was in the right place at the right time when I was asked to assist Dr. Henry Kissinger when he visited his New York office. That assignment, too, opened up a whole new world to me of details and planning. I have worked for many presidents of large companies over the years, and most recently for the Associate Chief Operating Officer for Duke Medical Center. When she retired in 2003, I decided it was time to put my skills and new degree from MOC to work.

Of all the areas I have been associated with, the one I have the most passion for and talent is planning meetings and coordinating logistics. I noticed a posting at the Duke Clinical Research Institute looking for a meeting planner to join the events group within the Communications department. I interviewed and was selected for the position. Three years later, the manager of the events group resigned and I decided to throw my hat into the ring. Again, I interviewed and was awarded the position.

One of the main requirements for being considered a candidate for this position is to have a bachelor's degree. Most high level jobs at Duke follow this rule. I would never have been considered for the position had I not had my degree. It is the process, determination and achievement of my goal to get my degree that gave me my credibility.

I hope you will share my story with others that are first starting their venture. Although at times it was tough, statistics was difficult, and running to class after work was draining, I sit here in my private office of floor-to-ceiling windows with my degree proudly hung in my office!

Best wishes,
Wendy Sprintz, '05