Spotlight Series: Linda Jackson

“I've worked in the same office at the Medical School for close to 30 years (36 total at Yale), and I cannot remember many days when I wasn’t excited about the mission of the office and the work that I do. My previous supervisor encouraged me to make the office a “home” for students while they're at Yale. This allowed me to bring my full self to work. Creating a home for students means I can play music, host cultural dinners, celebrate religious and cultural holidays, and meet families. It matters to me that students not only see me as an administrator, but also as a friend or family member.”

“I wished I’d learned earlier, the value of mentoring and networking. Now, I’d tell anyone starting off in their career to find a mentor and join professional organizations.”

“Iona Black, PhD, was an assistant professor of chemistry at Yale. She encouraged me—told me—to apply for the job in this office as the administrative assistant. She wrote my letter of recommendation. I was told during the interview that I was highly recommended for the position. When the position was offered to me, the imposter syndrome set in.

Iona told me that I could do the job. This was the best decision I made. What started off as a job ended up as a career.”

“I hope they won’t be afraid to step out of the box, to take advantage of all Yale has to offer, and to take care of themselves.”