The Alumni Magazine for Worcester Polytechnic Institute. (WPI)
Issue link: http://wpialumnimag.epubxp.com/i/114745
giving who manages the Call Center, there are always more than enough students who've got what it takes to be that friendly voice on the other end of the phone. "The students who become callers tend to be very invested in WPI and are involved with multiple organizations," explains Hubacz, who is responsible for recruiting the calling team. "They're constantly on the move, which is great when conveying current news to WPI alumni and parents." While Hubacz prefers students with a fundraising background— even something as simple as participating in a high school sports team car wash will do—it's the intangibles she really looks for. Those include communication skills, a good attitude, and commitment. Each of the 3,000 alumni who pledged received a "Call Center Bunch" postcard, with a note penned by the caller. It's these little personal touches, says associate director of annual giving Ajayi Harris, that can make all the difference the next time a graduate is contacted. "Alumni can relate to callers better since they share a common bond, even if they haven't returned to campus since they graduated," Harris says. "Sometimes they can talk for 20 minutes or longer, reminiscing about their time at WPI. And that's the kind of conversation that strengthens their bond with the school." LONG DISTANCE CALL When Ahmad Abojaradeh '15 Ƃrst arrived at WPI, he had yet to decide upon a major. A conversation with an alumnus during a Call Center shift in his freshman year changed all that. "I had a great conversation with a graduate who convinced me to major in mechanical engineering," says the native of Jordan. "It's been a great decision for me, and I'm fortunate to have made that call." As a freshman, Abojaradeh Ƃgured he'd be camped out in Gordon Library when he wasn't in class, based upon the school's rigorous academic reputation. He still spends a fair amount of time there studying, but he jumped in to a number of activities, including becoming a Crimson Key tour guide, treasurer of the Muslim Student Association, a member of the Social Committee and Habitat for Humanity groups, and a rower on the crew team. This year, he became an RA in Founders Hall. "One of the best things about WPI is that you're encouraged to get involved," he says, referring to the more than 200 activities available to students. "I've had to learn how to manage my time so I can do all these things." And if that means putting in a shift calling alumni instead of heading out with friends or hanging around the dorm, he says it's a small inconvenience. Besides, he has learned a lot about the school's past, which he values. "I get to hear what it was like when alumni were here, and it's a great experience," Abojaradeh explains. "Plus, I get to hear what it's like for them after they graduated, to hear how successful they have become. It's a good motivator to do well in class." Abojaradeh admits it's not easy being so far away from his family, although he did get a chance to return home for a few weeks last summer. Next year, he plans to spend a term in Switzerland, which will temporarily put his Call Center activities on hold. "I've had some great days talking with alumni," he says. "I've known that I would want to give back to WPI, but I thought I'd have to wait until I graduated. This has been a great way to help the school as a student." Winter 2013 41