TFAS students and alumni gathered over dinner once again to share stories, network and give Capital Semester participants the opportunity to envision life as a working professional in Washington, D.C. The annual Student-Alumni Networking Roundtable event is a favorite amongst the students, and it’s not hard to understand why when one considers the outstanding cohort of TFAS alumni who volunteer their time and expertise to empower the next generation.  

A particular highlight of this year’s event was the collection of advice that alumni shared with the group of students. The room listened with rapt attention as each alumnus shared their piece of advice. Joel Troutman '13, currently a consultant at Deloitte, took this time to remind students that “kindness goes a long way in this city,” and encouraged them to practice kindness and care amidst an often cutthroat environment. Other pieces of advice ranged from "don’t sell yourself short” to “be willing to do the grunt work,” each bringing its own flavor of encouragement and practical wisdom.   

The staff here at TFAS would like to say a special thank you to the following alumni who attended this year’s Spring Student-Alumni Networking Roundtable. Alumni volunteers bring immeasurable value to our programs, and the programs would not be possible without their support. 

• Thomas Fodor '18, Program Operations Coordinator at Free the Facts  

• John Foulkes '17, Senior Legislative Policy Analyst at Stateside Associates  

• Sarah Markley '16, Professional Staff Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, U.S. House of Representatives  

• Bryce Mitchell '14, Officer in the United States Air Force  

• Sarah Sicard '13, Senior Editor at the Military Times  

• Steff Thomas '13, Engagement Editor for The Washington Examiner  

• Joel Troutman '13, Consultant at Deloitte