We are excited to continue our "Where Are They Now" with Cortney Robinson, who started her career at Purdue Northwest in 2007 and continues to be a part of the Purdue Northwest family. Cortney currently works as the Program Manager at the Leadership Institute here on campus. Awarded the Region's Top 20 Under 40, Courtney Robinson spoke with us about her career, personal life and advice she has for our current players.
Â
-Courtney Locke
Â
Why did you choose Purdue University Northwest?
My time at PNW was a life changer. I never thought I would connect with peers or professors as much as I did. The girls I played with were like sisters. We played together, lived together and ate together. I received a BA in Business from PNW, and I had so many professors make an impact on my life. The experiential learning model that PNW incorporates, allows students to get real world experiences while learning at the same time. I really made me find my passion for a career.
Â
What is one of your favorite team highlights?
My favorite basketball highlight as a team was our team meals. I feel like we were always eating together before or after games and it really made us bond. I think a lot of the little things we did together constantly brought us closer, which reflected in our on-court relationship, as well as our off-court relationships. Those small things have helped me be more compassionate to others and be a better judge of character.
Â
What have you gone to do after PNW?
It took me a minute to find my current position. If there is one thing a sport can teach you, it teaches you discipline. Since graduation, I have worked in a restaurant and in a professional setting. Currently, I am the Program Manager at the Leadership Institute at Purdue Northwest. My job allows me to work with high school students, where I can help them strengthen their leadership skills with the aid of other leadership professionals within the community. I have always had a passion for leadership, and now I get to do it every day! I am constantly learning and taking in my environment to become the best leader possible.
Â
Looking back now, what you would tell our players about life, and what advice would you give them for their time at PNW?
If I could tell the team one thing, it would be to enjoy it! I didn't play my entire 4 years because I needed to start life. If I could take it back, I would try to be there for 5 years! You don't get to play, be with your teammates or travel forever, so enjoy the time while you can!
Â
Â