This month’s CatchUp is with MomUp superstar, Lizzie Starr, now the Executive Assistant at B-Flexion!
Tell us a bit about you!
I grew up in Wellesley, MA, went to college in the Midwest, and then started my working life in Dakar, Senegal where I spent seven years teaching middle and high school and working at an education focused NGO. I speak English, French, and Wolof fluently, and my Spanish is getting better and better! I now live in Waltham, MA with my partner, my 11-year-old son, two step sons (10 and 5), and two Siberian cats. We love living on the south side of Waltham for its diversity, walkability, proximity to the Charles River, as well as its copious fantastic restaurants and shops. I work as an Executive Assistant, and my other full time job is driving my son around to his AAU basketball tournaments on the weekends!
How has MomUp helped you?
MomUp led me to my current job - one where I feel supported, valued, and challenged. I'm so glad I responded to that LinkedIn message!
What career highlight are you most proud of?
When I was living in Dakar, Senegal I worked for about a year at an NGO that worked on early education. I ran a traveling program of math games to public elementary schools, introducing math concepts to kids in their native languages and in fun, playful contexts that made sense to them (such as haggling for goods in a market, or measuring fabric in a tailor shop). It was so much fun to work alongside Senegalese educators to put the program together, and then see the joy in the kids' eyes as they got to spend an afternoon playing and having fun instead of sitting in a classroom that was often overcrowded (think 75 first graders to one teacher). Following the program, I worked with teachers to create a culturally appropriate booklet on math education for young learners. I am so proud of the collaboration and product of that work.
First job you ever had
Making calls in the phonathon in college! Ever get a cheery call from a student asking you for money for your alma mater? That was me - and I loved it.
What are your best job search tips?
Find a recruiter you trust and feel good about, and keep an open, honest line of communication. By being honest about your needs and dealbreakers and working with someone you connect with, you're bound to find the right fit.
Advice on balancing work and personal life?
Be honest with your team about your boundaries, all while maintaining flexibility. My team understands that my laptop closes at 5pm - and they also know how to reach me after 5pm if needed. We've built the trust to know that urgent work will always get done, and also that we respect each others' time with family or pursuing other interests.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime?
I am an avid reader, and try to read at least 55 books a year. I also love to take advantage of the bike path near my home, as well as to kayak on the Charles. My whole family loves to play games in the Legend of Zelda franchise, so when the weather is yucky I love a good Zelda party, all playing together and comparing notes on our adventures!
