Carrie Mills, B.A. 2012

2012 Major: African & African American Studies

How has being an African & African American Studies graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"Since graduating 10 years ago, I've leveraged my Duke AAS education to evolve the corporate training space, working with all types of Fortune 500 companies to develop learning experiences to support an informed and inclusive work environment for all. As companies continue to invest in the diversity, equity, and inclusion space, my degree from Duke University has supercharged my leadership and engagement. Thanks to the strength of the research and writing aspects of Duke's AAAS program, I am a persuasive thinker, speaker, and writer at a time in which persuasion is the most critical tool in bridging the ever widening gap in this politicized America."

What advice would you give students in Duke's African & African American Studies programs? 

"Take it all in. Read everything on the syllabus. Dig into the optional book recommendations. Jumpstart your lifelong learning by investing time now in reading, writing, and research. Build your own knowledge and skills, all while considering how you can communicate the lessons out to others."