Success Stories

Guided by his experience as a veteran, Patrick Stoddard came to Oakland University with a commitment to service and a growing passion for strategic communication. Through a combination of academic work, internships and on-campus leadership roles, he discovered how storytelling, connection and civic engagement can create meaningful impact. Now a congressional aide, he supports veterans and strengthens community partnerships with the empathy, discipline and service-centered leadership he cultivated at OU. 

“Oakland University gave me the foundation to merge strategic communication with civic leadership. Through courses, internships and mentorship, I learned how to communicate effectively with diverse audiences and lead with purpose. My experience as president of the PRSSA chapter strengthened my leadership and organizational skills, which directly translated into my ability to manage stakeholder relationships in both agency and government settings. OU taught me not just how to communicate — but how to connect, lead and serve with integrity.” — Patrick Stoddard, CAS ’24

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 79% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• $57,500 median full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 29% are enrolled in continuing education
• 98% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Amazon
• Americorps
• BorgWarner 
• Detroit Country Day School
• Easterseals
• Flagstar Bank
• Marriott
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• U.S. Secret Service

Select Job Titles

• Data Scientist
• Operations manager
• Social Worker/Case Manager
• Teacher

What Employers Are Saying

“Identity offers one of the most sought-after and immersive opportunities for emerging professionals pursuing careers in public relations and communications. Through our partnership with Oakland University, we’ve collaborated with deeply motivated, highly capable students and alumni — many of whom have gone on to join our team in full-time roles. This relationship creates a strong, consistent pipeline of bright, driven professionals who are ready to make an immediate impact and grow into the next generation of industry leaders.” — Brandon Chesnutt, Partner, VP of Development, Identity

Madeleine Krick designed her career with fearless curiosity, using her time at Oakland University to explore jazz, opera, theory and teaching while discovering her passion for conducting. Embracing the role of assistant music director for Mozart’s Così fan tutte reshaped Krick’s path, leading her to found Opera de Metro, where she conducts with the tenacity and collaboration of a true Golden Grizzly.

“My time at OU gave me the opportunity to explore so many different ideas of what ‘being a musician’ could mean.” — Madeleine Krick, CAS ’23

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• 80% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 28% are enrolled in continuing education
• 99% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Amazon
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Hour Detroit
• Easterseals
• Oakland County
• UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage)

Select Job Titles

• Actuarial Analyst
• Graphic Designer
• Private Investigator
• Probation Officer
• Social Worker
• Teacher
• Underwriter

What Employers Are Saying

“At Siser, we admire Oakland University for fostering a community of students who are problem solvers, collaborative and work seamlessly across disciplines. A skill set is one thing, but the ability and willingness to continually learn, grow and improve with a team are invaluable.” — Maya Groscurth, Marketing Manager, Siser North America

Brooke White jump-started her creative career by leveraging her enthusiasm for social media with business acumen and marketing strategy at OU. Now a client success manager at the marketing agency Moonlight Digital, she builds on that foundation with dedication and drive, fostering meaningful relationships, supporting her team and helping clients create impactful growth through their digital presence.

“Oakland helped me develop my dedication toward the marketing field and how hard I work at my job every day. I am passionate about the team we have built, the relationships I’ve made with my coworkers and making sure all of my clients see the work we are doing for them.” — Brooke White, SBA ’25

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 95% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• $65,000 median full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 82% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 99% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• BDO USA LLP
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• BorgWarner
• FORVIA
• Plante Moran LLP
• Stellantis
• UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage)
• Yeo & Yeo

Select Job Titles

• Commodity Buyer
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Financial Reporting Analyst
• Human Resource Business Partner
• Loan Officer
• Marketing Associate
• Operations Manager
• Staff Accountant
• Supply Management Analyst
• Tax Associate

What Employers Are Saying

“I’m proud of the partnership we’ve built with Oakland University — from supporting ACHIEVE and GrizzHacks to welcoming OU interns onto my teams. Golden Grizzly talent brings strong technical skills, fresh ideas and a passion for innovation that makes a real impact at BorgWarner. Seeing these students grow and launch successful careers is truly one of the most rewarding parts of my role.” — Mark Williams, IT Director, BorgWarner

Daviion Burks didn’t just find a job: He designed a career to fit his life, finding the freedom to explore, take action and turn opportunity into reality at Oakland University. His internship as a financial team rotational intern at Detroit Manufacturing Systems was more than just an experience; it was a springboard to success, leading to his full-time role as a sales associate after graduation.

“My ambition and determination to graduate college, make my family proud and change my world, accompanied by the abundance of resources offered by the Career and Life Design Center, made me into the young professional that I am today.” — Daviion Burks, SBA ’23

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• 96% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• $60,000 median full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 83% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 98% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Ally Financial
• Blue Cross and Blue Shield
• BorgWarner
• Comerica
• DTE Energy
• FANUC America
• General Motors
• Plante Moran
• Rocket Companies
• Stellantis

Select Job Titles

• Accountant
• Auditor
• Business Analyst
• Buyer
• Financial Analyst
• Marketing Associate
• Operations Manager
• Supply Chain Associate
• Talent Management Specialist
• Warehouse Manager

What Employers Are Saying

“At DTE, we deeply value our partnership with Oakland University. The professionalism and dedication of OU students are exceptional, bringing fresh energy to our team while contributing significantly to Michigan’s talent pipeline. We look forward to continuing this meaningful collaboration and supporting the growth of future leaders.” — Korina Kasperek, Program Manager, HR Systems and Technology, DTE Energy

Lashonda Echols built her path around a deep commitment to helping young adults feel seen, supported and capable of success. At Oakland University, she discovered her potential — and her voice — through mentorship, leadership roles and communities like the Center for Multicultural Initiatives and the Career and Life Design Center. As a housing case manager, she employs a mindset of compassion and empowerment that she strengthened at OU to support young adults experiencing homelessness as they work toward stability and independence.

“The characteristic I developed most at Oakland University was confidence. When I arrived, I struggled with imposter syndrome and uncertainty about where I belonged. Through supportive professors, advisers, mentors and on-campus roles, I slowly learned to trust my abilities and see my own potential.” — Lashonda Echols, SEHS ’24

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 80% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 100% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 90% of graduates have identified that their current job aligns with their career plans and interests
• 100% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Chippewa Valley Schools
• Ford Motor Company
• Rochester Community Schools
• Troy School District
• Utica Community Schools

Select Job Titles

• Academic Program Manager
• Career Specialist
• Early Childhood Teacher
• Special Education Teacher
• Teacher

What Employers Are Saying

“Oakland University’s education program is highly respected in our district, and its graduates are consistently held in high regard. We take great pride in hiring OU graduates, and many of our teachers are alumni of the program. We are proud to have many of our school administrators who have earned advanced degrees from OU, and we deeply value our ongoing relationship with the university." — Ron Roberts, Superintendent, Chippewa Valley Schools

As an elementary education major at OU, Trenton Brown gained real-world teaching experience by working directly with students in multiple school districts through field placements and student teaching. Now working as a full-time middle school teacher, he uses those experiences to motivate and engage his students while keeping his teaching fun and effective.

“Oakland University provided me with so many opportunities to grow. Being able to work in four different school districts and learn from a variety of teachers was incredible.” — Trenton Brown, SEHS ’24

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• 100% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU 
• $58,450 starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary 
• 88% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 100% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Chippewa Valley Schools 
• Dana Incorporated 
• L'Anse Creuse Public Schools
• Utica Community Schools

Select Job Titles

• Early Childhood Teacher 
• HR Generalist 
• Teacher

What Employers Are Saying

“Oakland University’s education program is highly respected in our district, and its graduates are consistently held in high regard. We take great pride in hiring OU graduates, and many of our teachers are alumni of the program. We are proud to have many of our school administrators who have earned advanced degrees from OU, and we deeply value our ongoing relationship with the university." — Ron Roberts, Superintendent, Chippewa Valley Schools

Raised in a patriotic family and inspired by his veteran father, Michael Wnuk followed a nonlinear path — personal trainer, aspiring engineer, worker juggling multiple jobs — before arriving at Oakland University with a dream to support the U.S. military through his everyday work. At OU, curiosity became clarity as he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering, connected with mentors and made the most of internships, opening the door to a full-time role at AM General that fulfills his drive to serve and lead with intention and purpose.

“I am looking forward to advancing in the industry and becoming a knowledgeable, respected individual capable of leading a team of engineers to success in our mission.” — Michael Wnuk, SECS ‘24

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 90% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• $80,000 median full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 87% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 99% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Aptiv
• DTE Energy
• General Motors
• Stellantis
• UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage)
• Williams International

Select Job Titles

• Automation Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Embedded Systems Software Developer
• Rotational Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Systems Engineer

What Employers Are Saying

“AM General is proud to partner with students and graduates who bring ingenuity to every stage of the process — from design through manufacturing — to support dependable, innovative solutions for our customers and warfighters. Time and again, OU students demonstrate a strong commitment to empowering the warfighter and a deep appreciation for the men and women who protect our freedoms at home and around the world.” — Jen Reutter, SHRM-CP, HR Manager, AM General

Garrett Gilstorff thrives in the ever-evolving world of IT, where each new challenge is a chance to innovate, adapt and transcend the boundaries of what’s possible. At Oakland University, Gilstorff ignited his passion for technology and pushed past his comfort zone through hands-on experiences, collaboration and embracing opportunities to learn and to lead.

“Oakland University set the stage for my career by providing me with a great mix of learning and hands-on experience. The networking events and industry connections I made through the university led to internships and job offers that have truly jump-started my career.” — Garrett Gilstorff, SECS ’24

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• 86% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• $75,000 median full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 86% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 99% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Ally Financial
• Brose
• General Dynamics Land Systems
• General Motors
• Magna
• Stellantis
• UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage)

Select Job Titles

• Electrical Engineer
• IT Technician
• Mechanical Engineer
• Project Engineer
• Software Developer
• Vehicle Application Engineer

What Employers Are Saying

"Oakland University alumni are ready to make a meaningful impact from day one. Their exceptional problem-solving abilities and practical skills make them an ideal fit for Magna. The education they receive at OU aligns well with our core values, driving our commitment to innovation and excellence." — Heather Holm, Manager, Talent Attraction & Employer Brand, Canada & United States, Magna International

With South American roots and the ability to speak five languages, Dairelys Guedez views the world through a global lens focused on interconnectedness. She chose Oakland’s public health program for its emphasis on community engagement, applied learning and public service. Now employed full time at Corewell Health and pursuing her master’s degree, Dairelys sees how providing proactive and preventative health measures protects community health and well-being.

“I knew of OU’s strong public health program and wanted the opportunity to experience it at Oakland. Due to the excellent faculty and plethora of classes I could take within public health, I received a job offer from Corewell Health and now have a full-time position there. My fortitude was fostered through OU mentors like Dr. Kate Rougeau. I’ve learned that you can always be pushed beyond to be better.” — Dairelys Guedez, SHS ’25

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 86% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 69% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU
• 42% are enrolled in continuing education 
• 100% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Corewell Health
• Detroit Medical Center
• General Motors
• Henry Ford Health
• Team Rehabilitation

Select Job Titles

• Environmental Safety Coordinator
• Exercise Physiologist
• Healthcare Administrator
• Radiologic Technologist

What Employers Are Saying

At DirectRx, we admire the dedication, curiosity and professionalism that Oakland University students consistently demonstrate. Their innovative mindset and commitment to making an impact in health care align with our mission to provide comprehensive and timely care for our patients to get better. Our partnership allows us to collaborate within a shared community that fosters growth, integrity and leadership in the next generation of healthcare professionals. These students bring not only exceptional knowledge and skills, but also a genuine passion for making a positive difference in patients’ lives. — Marina Lekocaj, Assistant Director of Employee Engagement, DirectRx

Nedi Affas excelled academically and holistically while earning her bachelor’s degree in health sciences. A student leader in the Explorations in Collaborative Leadership and InterProfessional Education (ECLIPSE) program, she carried out community-engaged activities with students pursuing careers in physical therapy, public health, medical laboratory science, as a physician assistant and more. Now an OUWB student, Nedi’s hands-on experiences, including work as a World Medical Relief volunteer and Corewell Health assistant, provided deep insights into people, propelling her journey to becoming a caring physician.

"I helped translate for an Arab patient who was struggling to communicate with the hospital staff. She was extremely appreciative and said, ‘You’re the answer to my prayers.’ Her words continue to echo in my mind. I can’t wait to be a physician and have an impact on people’s lives." — Nedi Affas, SHS ’23

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• $57,429 average starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary 
• 91% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 40% are enrolled in continuing education 
• 100% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Corewell Health 
• Detroit Medical Center 
• General Motors
• HealthQuest Physical Therapy 
• Henry Ford Health

Select Job Titles

• Medical Laboratory Scientist 
• Personal Trainer 
• Radiologic Technologist 
• Safety and Risk Manager

What Employers Are Saying

“Oakland University students and graduates are well prepared and ready to do their job, whether it is as a student on a clinical or a licensed PT. The quality of OU’s physical therapy program, combined with the high standards required for admission to the program, almost guarantees extremely high-quality candidates.” — Neil King, PT, President, Neil King Therapy

Nadine Badawi leads with compassion for the littlest patients, discovering her calling in neonatal care through hands-on learning, team-based coursework and the mentorship she found in Oakland University’s School of Nursing. Now a full-time NICU nurse at Henry Ford Health in Detroit, she carries that foundation through every shift — advocating for underserved families, celebrating fragile milestones and shaping a career defined by purpose, resilience and the true heart of a Golden Grizzly.

“My successes will continue to be a reflection of who I am and who I strive to be because my time at Oakland University taught me that nothing is impossible when you are diligent and responsible.” — Nadine Badawi, SON ’25

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• $73,273 average starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary
• 92% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 92% of graduates have identified that their current job aligns with their career plans and interests

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Corewell Health
• Detroit Medical Center
• Henry Ford Health System
• McLaren Health Care
• Trinity Health
• University of Michigan Health

Select Job Titles

• Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) Nurse
• Intensive Care Nurse
• Oncology Registered Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Registered Nurse

What Employers Are Saying

“Our partnership with Oakland University holds immeasurable value for DMC. When Oakland University nursing students and alumni walk through our doors, they're caring for patients facing critical health challenges during their most fragile moments. Time and again, they show up with remarkable compassion, resilience and grace — leaving a lasting positive impression on patients, families and colleagues alike.” — Justin Scruggs, Director of Recruitment Marketing, DMC

Abbie Tuomisto, BSN, RN, shines in the fast-paced world of cardiovascular intensive care, where everyday challenges push her to think critically, grow and positively impact patient outcomes. Her time at Oakland University taught her that success isn’t about perfection; it’s about resilience, continuous learning and showing up with passion every day.

“My time at Oakland University and the hard work that I put in is a great reminder that I am capable of more than I think. The professors constantly reminded us that we are capable of anything when we apply ourselves and do it with passion, and I think that still applies in my day-to-day work life.” — Abbie Tuomisto, SON ’24

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• $68,500 median full-time salary for graduates earning an annual salary 
• 85% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 97% of employed, full-time graduates report that their job is related to their career plans and interests
• 99% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Ascension 
• Corewell Health 
• Detroit Medical Center 
• Henry Ford Health 
• McLaren Health Care
• Trinity Health

Select Job Titles

• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Critical Care Nurse
• Pediatric Registered Nurse
• Public Health Nurse
• Registered Nurse

What Employers Are Saying

“Henry Ford Health is proud to have had such a deep and rich history of hiring nurses who’ve been educated and trained at Oakland University. The nurses who come out of OU are highly skilled, compassionate, and fluent in the latest technologies and developments, and they share our core mission to make the impossible possible for the patients who walk through our doors. We know that when hiring an Oakland University nursing alum, they’ll bring a level of professionalism and know-how that’s hard to find.” — Eric Wallis, DNP, MSA, RN, NE-BC, FACHE, Senior Vice President and System Chief Nursing Officer, Henry Ford Health

Having launched an accessories business during high school with the help of her mom, Mary Gallagher is an entrepreneur at heart who sees possibility at every turn. At OU, her Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies adviser was both a mentor and confidante, helping to customize Mary’s curriculum and encourage her work at The Writing Center. Now a marketing coordinator at DeHaan Orthodontics, Mary kindles her keen interest in marketing and sales while fulfilling her passion for giving back through special projects.

“The characteristic that I developed most while at OU was confidence. Going through the business classes where you have to present in front of people that you don’t know, and then receive feedback, was a crucial part of how I was able to develop strong confidence that I took into the workforce. It is truly something that, when taught correctly, leads to an endless amount of opportunities.” — Mary Gallagher, BIS ‘23

Data (2024-25 Alumni)

• 100% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU 
• $64,417 average full-time starting salary for graduates earning an annual salary 
• 87% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces
• 98% of employed graduates are employed in Michigan

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Comerica
• Corewell Health
• General Motors
• Oakland County
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Select Job Titles

• Account Manager
• Business Process Engineer
• Case Manager
• Dance Instructor
• Insurance Broker

What Employers Are Saying

“Oakland University students and alumni embody a spirit of determination, innovation and community leadership. We consistently see individuals who are not only academically prepared, but who also bring real-world experience, adaptability and a commitment to making a positive impact. Their resilience and drive set them apart, and we admire the pride they carry for OU and the broader region they serve.” — Arianna Ridderbusch, Vice President of Community Impact, Oakland University Credit Union

Driven by a passion for education and a gift for teaching sign language, Amiesha Williams returned to the workforce inspired to bridge communication gaps and create a more inclusive world, one classroom at a time. Having earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies at OU and overcome profound personal challenges, Amiesha dug deep within herself to prove that resilience, purpose and the power of possibility can shape not just a career, but also a movement for change.

“Oakland University served as the catalyst that ignited my passion and revealed my purpose: to address the pervasive issue of unemployment and underemployment within the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Through my pursuit of an interdisciplinary studies degree, complemented by minors in human resource development and communication and deaf studies, I've uncovered a deep-seated commitment to leveraging education and communication as tools for empowerment.” — Amiesha Williams, BIS ’23

Data (2023-24 Alumni)

• 100% had an internship or internship-like experience while at OU 
• $64,241 average full-time salary for graduates earning an annual salary 
• 89% of graduates are employed, enrolled in continuing education, participating in a program of voluntary service or serving in the U.S. Armed Forces

Select Top Employers Hiring Graduates

• Corewell Health
• Eaton Corporation
• Shift Digital 
• State of Michigan 
• Stellantis

Select Job Titles

• Data Analyst 
• Medical Assistant  
• Office Manager
• Sales Manager

What Employers Are Saying

"At Enterprise, we greatly admire the work ethic and open-mindedness of Oakland University students and alumni. Our partnership with the university enables us to offer students a well-rounded understanding of all aspects of running a successful business, not just one area of the market. This broad perspective inspires them to embrace new opportunities and unlock a world of possibilities. Hiring Oakland students is a priority for us because we seek individuals who share our values — those who understand that success is earned through dedication, hard work and building a personal brand, much like the remarkable OU alumni we've had the privilege of working with." — Jamie Kisser, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Enterprise Mobility