Yohana Zecarias, B.A. 2015

2015 Major: African & African American Studies; Minor: Visual Arts

How has being an African & African American Studies graduate from Duke helped shape your professional success?

"It has provided me a dynamic and unique perspective on consumer markets and the cultural landscape that has set me apart in developing business strategies and marketing campaigns. Especially given our current sociopolitical climate, having a historical and sociological foundation of our national identity has been invaluable in creating strategy and content that is effective and socially conscious."

What advice would you give students in African & African American Studies?

"My advice would be to double major or minor with a technical skill. The goal is to be able to apply the information you learn - that not many other people have - into different settings where that perspective would not traditionally be found. Also, do original research! Get published! Take advantage of the professors within the department and build sound relationships with them as they are some of the best in the country."