Krystie M. Ocasio ’14 found Shenandoah through a College Board quiz, which matched her with universities based on her answers. Ocasio wanted to attend a school where she would be more than just a number and get a one-on-one experience. She had never heard of Shenandoah since she is originally from Puerto Rico, but thought the university would give her the experience she was looking for, so she submitted her application without even visiting the campus. Ocasio’s first time on campus was at freshman orientation just a few weeks after graduating high school, and the moment she set foot on campus she knew she had made the right decision.
“The faculty and staff really do want you to succeed,” said Ocasio. “If you reach out to them and demonstrate your interest in a certain program, class or activity, they will do everything in their power to get you to that next level.”
Ocasio’s fondest memories of Shenandoah was participating in the Global Citizenship Project; she had the opportunity to travel to Morocco. She was also instrumental in the founding of the university’s Psi Delta chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi, a professional business fraternity.
Ocasio is an applicant coordinator/recruiter for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Richmond, Virginia. In this position, she is the primary point of contact for processing and recruiting FBI applicants in the Richmond Field Office’s area, which covers more than 82 of the 95 counties in Virginia. “I provide information sessions, attend career fairs and recruitment conferences to connect with potential applicants to the FBI and inform them of the opportunities within the organization,” said Ocasio. She also works as the program coordinator of the Richmond Field Office’s intern program.
The most rewarding part of Ocasio’s career is working alongside the hardworking men and women of the FBI on a variety of different cases and task forces. “As a former FBI intern myself, I love being able to work with students and help guide them through what the FBI has to offer as a career,” said Ocasio.
Ocasio believes that her Shenandoah experience prepared her for the workforce by teaching her how to be a global citizen. “Our society is growing more and more diverse and we must be able to build rapport with individuals from a variety of communities,” said Ocasio. “The mission of the FBI is to uphold the Constitution and protect the American people.” She is able to establish connections because of her inclusive mindset from Shenandoah, which helps her protect the public and their rights.
Ocasio’s advice to students is: “Be mindful of the requirements for federal employment. If you are not sure what they are, contact your local recruiter and learn more so that you can prepare. Networking is important in any career but particularly in government careers where most of your work is done via collaboration with other people and/or agencies. Take this time at SU and really develop your leadership skills as they will become invaluable as you enter the workplace.”