Alumni Spotlights

Ellyanne Rosenthal '11

Ellyanne Rosenthal '11

Employer
Global Mobility Specialist

1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
The journey started before I graduated, and this was during my study abroad in Schwäbisch Gmünd in 2009. It was summer 2009 when I fell in love with Germany (and the German language), and from that moment on I knew I wanted to live and work in Germany one day. I was determined to speak German well enough to be able to use the language in a professional setting. In short, since graduating in 2011 it has been a wonderful and exciting journey, which has allowed me to grow personally and stretch myself professionally. I moved (back) to Europe after graduation and worked and lived in Stuttgart, Germany, and London, England. Now, I am happily settled in Hamburg, Germany, and work in Global Mobility (International HR).

2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
I have quite a few good memories at Grand Valley. My absolute favorite memory was studying abroad in Schwäbisch Gmünd in 2009 and 2010. I also loved being a Resident Assistant allowing me to meet lots of wonderful and interesting people.

3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
It sounds simple, but remaining calm and being an attentive listener makes the world of difference when you are dealing with challenging situations. It really pays to breathe, think rationally, and pause before speaking. Keep calm and carry on!

4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand Valley experience.
Dynamic, fun, challenging

5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I feel it is so important to look out for our family, friends, and colleagues during the challenging times we are facing! I want to make a small difference every day by having meaningful conversations and serving as a listening ear to a family member, friend, or colleague in need.

February 2021

Interest Area(s)
International Relations, German

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Page last modified February 9, 2021