I developed my customer service skills for nearly 10 years in a fast-paced retail environment, learning to address customer needs while finding solutions that benefited both customers and the business. My journey through Higher Education involved implementing new CRM systems and enhancing student information systems to support evolving staff roles.I've thrived in dynamic environments that encouraged skill development to fill talent gaps, which lead me in the path to pursue a master's degree in Information Technology. Recognizing a growth opportunity while in Admissions and Records, I began collaborating with a mentor and sought online training to gain proficiency in SQL and data reporting. This allowed me to meet the data reporting needs of management and clean the data in the existing CRM system.While managing the CRM, I created reports that highlighted communication inefficiencies. Networking with admissions staff at various recruiting events, I discovered our CRM servers were blacklisted by major email providers. I researched and identified a new CRM that aligned with our recruitment strategy. After transitioning prospective student data within a month, I established workflows in under six months essential to the existing recruitment cycle, enhancing our data management and communication efforts. This project increased open rates from under 10% to over 70%, enabling our team to boost recruitment over the three prior years, despite having three fewer staff members.The technical skills I developed as part of the CRM project, helped me secure my current role as Assistant Director of Admissions and Records, where I refine daily operations and represent my college in a statewide user group for our shared student information system. I also support the college through peer collaboration to address immediate issues and plan future enhancements.Throughout my master's program, I learned Python, utilized R for class projects, and developed applications in Java for project-based final assignments. I enjoy acquiring new skills and fostering growth in any environment.