EHS Pillars - Fall 2017

THIRTY SECONDS
WITH ELON MUSK
Alumni Emphasize Authenticity and Work Ethic
at Third Annual Alumni Leadership Day
"If you had thirty seconds with Elon Musk, what would you tell him are the top two things
that make you exceptional?"
That was the question alumnus Eric Santamaria '92, Service Manager for Tesla, posed to
EHS seniors during his visit to campus for Alumni Leadership Day.
Santamaria and 40 other alumni returned to EHS on Tuesday, November 7, where they met
with EHS seniors, shared stories about decisions that impacted their career paths, and
described daily life in their professions.
Panels included diverse fields such as Arts and Entertainment, Engineering, Science and
Medicine, Finance, and Real Estate. Following the panel discussions, alumni joined the
seniors for lunch, where students could visit with them and follow up on questions in a less
formal atmosphere.
A few common themes ran through most of the discussions, as the panelists stressed the
importance of identifying personal strengths and weaknesses to determine career paths
and find success. Alumni across all fields emphasized building a strong work ethic and
reputation, qualities that will further careers. Marketing panelist Katia Mazzone Basley '08
advised, "Never let any job be beneath you. Pick up trash, do the admin work, stay late,
and work hard."
Alumni also encouraged seniors to take advantage of the many classes, electives, and
extracurricular activities at EHS, which will help students discover interests and determine
their passions.
The Arts and Entertainment panelists were unanimous in their belief of internships and
networking. When networking, "Be sure that you are authentic," emphasized actress
Stephanie Styles '10. "Have coffee and tea with people, learn from everybody—in general,
people love to share advice. Ask artists whose work or career you admire if they want to
meet and talk. Most likely, they will."
In addition to serving on the Business and Entrepreneurship panel, Santamaria addressed
the entire student body during Alumni Chapel on Monday, November 6. In his Chapel
talk, Santamaria emphasized work ethic and curiosity as keys to success. He reminded
listeners that life and work will bring both joys and disappointments. But, he told the
students, "It's not about how you fail, it's about how you get back up and achieve."
—Claire C. Fletcher
22