DoIT Student Digital Stories: Kimberly Herritt

Student Experience at UMBC DoIT: Work, Learning, & Fun

Kimmie Herritt shares her journey at UMBC Division of Information Technology (DoIT), balancing work, studies, and fun, while gaining skills and preparing for a career at PWC.

Navigating College Life and Career Growth: Lessons from a Student’s Journey in Information Systems

Kimmie’s academic journey is rooted in her pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. This field, which sits at the intersection of technology and business, is increasingly vital in today’s digital world. But Kimmie didn’t stop at her major; she leveraged her time at UMBC to expand her skill set and interests.

Recognizing the value of a multidisciplinary approach, Kimmie completed a certificate in User Experience (UX) Web and Mobile Design. This credential not only complements her technical knowledge but also equips her with the tools to design intuitive and user-friendly digital products—a skill highly sought after in the tech industry.

In addition, she pursued a minor in Management and Entrepreneurship. This combination of technical, design, and business acumen positions her as a versatile candidate ready to tackle complex challenges in the workforce.

Gaining Real-World Experience: Working at DoIT

While academic achievements are crucial, real-world experience is equally important. Kimmie’s role at DoIT as a student desktop support specialist provided her with hands-on experience that textbooks alone can’t offer.

Kimmie describes her time at DoIT as “super fun,” thanks in large part to the vibrant office culture. The team is a melting pot of students from various majors—computer engineering, computer science, business technology administration, and information systems. This is a rich environment where knowledge is shared, and humor is never in short supply.

A positive workplace culture can make all the difference in a student job. Kimmie credits her boss, Courtney Burkett, and her co-workers for creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued. The camaraderie extends beyond work tasks, with desks filled and laughter echoing through the office as they share stories, watch funny videos, and discuss coursework.

Kimmie’s responsibilities at DoIT included troubleshooting a variety of technical issues—re-imaging computers, fixing printer problems, and managing software updates. These tasks not only honed her technical skills but also taught her the importance of patience, problem-solving, and clear communication.

Building Bonds Beyond the Office

Work isn’t just about tasks and responsibilities; it’s also about building relationships. One of Kimmie’s fondest memories is the team’s tradition of food gatherings. Each spring, the group ventures out to an unlimited sushi restaurant—a ritual that has become a highlight of their time together.

These outings are more than just meals; they’re opportunities to bond, share laughs, and create lasting memories. The playful competition to see how long the receipt can get is a testament to the team’s spirit and sense of fun. Such traditions help foster a sense of belonging and make the workplace feel like a second home.

Advice for New Student Employees: Embrace the Experience

Drawing from her own journey, Kimmie offers valuable advice to new DoIT employees—and, by extension, to any student stepping into a new role.

Be Outgoing and Open to Learning: Kimmie emphasizes the importance of being outgoing and willing to engage with everyone in the office. Building relationships with co-workers, regardless of their age or background, can lead to unexpected friendships and learning opportunities.
Connect with Full-Time Staff: She also encourages new employees to interact with full-time staff. These individuals often have a wealth of experience and insights to share, and forming connections with them can open doors to mentorship and professional growth.
Embrace New Skills: Every job is a chance to learn something new. Whether it’s mastering a technical process or developing soft skills like communication and teamwork, being proactive about learning can set you apart and prepare you for future challenges.
Balancing Work, Academics, and Life: As a last-semester senior, Kimmie found herself with a lighter course load—just three classes—which allowed her to dedicate more time to her job at DoIT. This balance between academics and work is a common challenge for many students, but Kimmie’s experience shows that it’s possible to thrive in both areas with the right approach.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for Life After Graduation

As graduation approaches, many students face the daunting question: What’s next? Kimmie’s plans offer a blueprint for how to transition from college to career while staying true to personal passions. Kimmie has secured a position at PWC in Philadelphia as a Digital Assurance and Transparency Associate. This role will allow her to apply the skills she’s developed in information systems, user experience, and management in a professional setting. Her experience at DoIT has played a role in preparing her for this next step. Student jobs and internships provide not only technical skills but also the confidence and adaptability needed to succeed in the workforce.

Every student’s journey is unique, shaped by the choices they make and the opportunities they seize. Kimmie Herritt’s experience at UMBC is a shining example of how to make the most of your time in college—by pursuing academic excellence, gaining real-world experience, building meaningful relationships, and preparing for a fulfilling future.

As you navigate your own path, remember that college is more than just a stepping stone to a career. It’s a time to discover who you are, what you’re passionate about, and how you want to make your mark on the world. Embrace the journey, seek out new experiences, and don’t be afraid to chart your own course. The lessons you learn and the memories you make will stay with you long after graduation.