Post University Alumna Annie Rockhill, who resides in Connecticut, graduated in 2015 with her bachelor’s degree in business administration and a concentration in finance. Dancing since the young age of two, it was Rockhill’s dream to own her own dance studio.
In high school, she began ballroom dancing, becoming a full-time competitor as well as a dance instructor by the time she was in college. Always traveling for competitions, Rockhill knew she could not manage physically attending school on campus. After she researched some online schools and spoke with various admissions counselors, Rockhill chose to attend Post University.
“Post stood out to me for a few reasons,” said Rockhill. “I was transferring with my associate degree, and Post was very accommodating with transfer credits. Everyone was very helpful during the application process, and I loved that I was able to stop by the school in person if I had any questions or if I wanted to use any of the school’s facilities.”
Rockhill felt that taking classes at Post played a significant role in her growth, both academically and personally. “I am typically an introvert and having to communicate with others in online classes helped me become more comfortable working with others,” shared Rockhill.
While on the road, Rockhill browsed through many Instagram accounts revolved around her passions, such as beauty, fashion, and wellness. She stumbled across a number of individuals who promoted their businesses through these social media platforms. She then realized she could turn another passion of hers into a business. Growing up in the ballroom dance industry, Rockhill developed this desire to inspire feelings of beauty in all people regardless of the cost of their attire and cosmetics.
“Being in the ballroom dance industry, I have been surrounded by expensive tastes – many dancers spend excessive amounts of money for beauty and fashion. While off the dance floor at a competition, I wore a $16 pair of heels and a fellow dancer came up to me to tell me how much she loved my shoes. I was wearing a basic pair of heels, while others in the room were wearing shoes that cost hundreds of dollars. I want to show people that fashion and beauty can be affordable.”
Rockhill started up her own Instagram and blog page, The Banannie Diaries, to share her knowledge and passion with others. She wasn’t sure what her next steps would be in order to turn her blog into an online business, so Rockhill decided to contact Post’s Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) to see if they could offer some guidance.
The Career and Job Placement Advisor Colin Osborn talked with Rockhill on the phone and provided her some essential next steps in starting up a business, such as registering her business and obtaining a vendor license. They also discussed some marketing tactics and the importance of networking.
“Alumni should utilize CCPD for many reasons, especially if looking for a career change, are in need of career coaching or need assistance with resume revisions or job searches,” says Osborn. “We want to assist our students and alumni any way we can. It is our duty to help!”
After her phone call with Osborn, Rockhill felt a significant amount of her stress alleviated. She knew it would be hard work to grow her business, but she knew what to do next and where to focus her efforts.
“Post makes me feel as though I am always supported. Five years down the road, and I was still able to call and get some guidance. It makes me feel much more relaxed about my future.”
All students and alumni are encouraged to reach out to our Center for Career and Professional Development. Ask questions about finding a job, building your network, identifying a career path or advancing your career in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.