Professional Life and Accomplishments
In 100 words or less, tell us about your career path.
My path to GSG started in high school when I took a competitive constitutional law class that focused on real world application of the Bill of Rights. I enjoyed this experience so much that I decided to major in political science at the University of Colorado, Boulder and held many different political-focused internships throughout college. When I graduated, I continued on this path working as an associate in government affairs at a small political consulting firm in Denver. After a year, despite loving my job and learning a lot, I decided to switch gears totally and move to Spain to be a middle school teacher. I taught math, biology, chemistry, and history to a wonderful group of 11-15 year old students. Ole! I then decided I wanted to fulfill my dream of living in New York City, so I moved on a whim with no job and I’m happy to be here!
What would your co-workers be surprised to know about you?
I’ve recently become very into making my own kombucha and sourdough starters.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Create and maintain professional relationships. It’s not just “don’t burn bridges,” it’s about the importance of putting the time and effort into building and maintaining good working relationships with a wide variety of colleagues. Over time your professional circle of trusted colleagues will expand for sharing ideas, mentoring, seeking advice, and making new contacts. I still keep in touch with my first supervisor when I was 19 as a summer intern in the Colorado State capital. This relationship continues to benefit me and has opened many other professional doors.
More about Sophie
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
In middle school for a class project we had to shadow someone in a profession of our choosing. I shadowed an ice cream scooper at my neighborhood ice cream parlor, so I guess that was my dream profession!
What is your favorite TED talk, podcast, or book?
A Gentleman in Moscow and Rules of Civility, both by Amor Towles.
Who is your dream dinner-date guest? (dead or alive)
Former Presidential candidate and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper. When I was nine, he gave me the keys to the city as a Denver Mile High Scholar!
