Center for Career Planning

Eliza Dana ‘25

Human Resources Assistant at Colonial Farm Credit

Major: Psychology

Please give a brief background about your current company and position

Colonial Farm Credit is part of the nationwide farm credit system. We provide loans for farmers and ranchers in Eastern VA. As part of the HR team, I handle recruiting, onboarding, retention, performance, payroll, benefits administration, training and development, employment policies, and more! 

How do you think being at Christopher Newport helped you to pursue your career path? 

CNU has given me the resources, leadership experience, and professionalism that I needed to help me succeed! 

What career readiness competency did you develop the most while at CNU and how do you use it in your career?

Critical Thinking - Being at a liberal arts school and being surrounded by so many people different from me, I truly expanded my critical thinking skills. I use this skill daily when employee issues arise and I need to figure out the best solution legally, personally, and for the business! 

What advice would you give current students?

I would tell students to never get discouraged! The job market is tough right now, but every application matters and the rejections will lead to acceptances! It took me a while to find a position that met my needs, but I am so happy about where I ended up! 

Sophia Brann ‘26

Intern at the Office of Orientation and Student Involvement

Majors: Communication & Leadership

What resources did you use to find your internship?

I was a Crew Leader the previous year, which led naturally into the Student Director role. 

Which career readiness competency did you use during your internship and please give a specific example of how you developed it.

Career & Self Development - This role required dedication, professionalism, and advanced knowledge of higher education, student development, and belonging that I would not have had personal experience with otherwise. Being trusted with a role of leadership at a higher level, supervising my peers, and completing major logistical tasks was a great way to strengthen my career and self-development competency. 

What advice do you have for underclassmen seeking internship opportunities?

Don't let setbacks dissuade you! If an opportunity passes you by, that just means an even better opportunity for you is on the way. Stay open to new things and maintain resilience.