Colleen O'Reilly '20 graduated with a degree in Finance and now thrives as a Finance Coordinator and Staff Accountant at Urban Studio/CVLT Production. Colleen reflects on her standout moments at the Busch School, from collaborative courses to enriching study abroad experiences, and now delves into the dynamic world of production.
Why did you choose to attend the Busch School at The Catholic University of America?
I chose to attend the Busch School at The Catholic University of America because of the strong sense of community I felt immediately walking through the doors. Everyone was so welcoming, and you could feel the desire everyone had to help each other strive to be the best versions of themselves. I can confidently say, I made the right choice by attending the Busch School.
What were some highlights of your time in the Busch School and at Catholic University?
A highlight during my time in the Busch School was my senior year comps group. This group had taught me how to work with others and how to collaborate with a group of people who all wanted to achieve the same goal. It really felt like a team I was a part of. A highlight during my time at Catholic University as a whole was of course my time studying abroad at our Rome Campus. When I say these were the best 4 months, I truly mean it. Being in a different country with students who also went to Catholic was an experience that I will never forget. Whether we were walking around the Colosseum or throwing pennies into the Trevi Fountain, knowing I was able to end the day as a part of a community was really comforting. It made Rome feel like my home away from home and I owe this experience to Catholic University.
What have you enjoyed most about working in your position?
As a Finance Coordinator and Staff Accountant at Urban Studio/ CVLT Production, I have had the privilege of working with so many different people who hold a lot of different roles. I really enjoy the people I work with. Coming from an industry that was not production oriented, this opportunity has really opened my eyes to a new world. I enjoy doing what I love while being in a creative space. I have learned a lot not only in the role itself, but through the people around me. Every day at the office has been a new experience and I am constantly learning and encouraged to learn about the production industry more and more each day.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
I have a few pieces of advice I would give to prospective students. First off: never hold yourself back mentally. You are way more capable than you think you are and any choice you make is never a wrong one. The choices you make every day are leading you closer to your goals whether you realize it in the moment or months later. Saying yes to opportunities definitely opens way more doors than you think they will in the moment and never stop networking- you never know who you may meet and where it will lead you in your career!