First and Last Name: Jaclyn Rutkowski
Hometown: Sussex, WI
What Brought you to Fond du Lac: I went to Ripon College and started an internship at National Exchange Bank & Trust after my sophomore year which turned into a full-time job after college!
Place of Employment and Position: Marketing Associate at National Exchange Bank & Trust
What do you enjoy the most about your career?
The first thing that comes to mind are my coworkers and the environment at the bank! I feel very lucky to have found an opportunity in/right after college where I work with amazing coworkers while working for a family-owned bank that truly cares for its employees. The opportunities to learn and grow both in skillsets for my role as well as professionally have been more than I could ask for!
What words of wisdom would you share with other YP’s in relation to career building?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take on new opportunities!
Who or what inspires and motivates you to be your best?
My family and close friends are probably my best motivators and inspirations. They are the ones I lean on when I need support and in return, I always want to do my best to make them proud!
What are 3 Characteristics and/or Strengths that make you who you are?
Efficient, honest and well-rounded – at least according to my friend that I made give me three characteristics!
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time/a hobby you enjoy?
I love to read, bake and spend time outdoors with my husband and puppy!
What is your favorite part about being in YPF and how has it benefited you?
My favorite part of being in YPF is connecting with the community and other young professionals. Being relatively new to the area, I am thankful for all the connections I have made with other individuals in the community. The opportunity to make a difference by volunteering and grow personally/professionally with workshops is an amazing bonus as well!
What does community engagement look like for you?
Community engagement for me involves helping where I can! I am a part of the Membership Engagement committee for YPF and love sharing ideas and helping execute when possible. Additionally, I am on the committee for the Envision Greater Fond du Lac Summer Series for Interns and Co-Ops where we plan events throughout the summer and help with execution. As someone who went through this program as an intern, I love being able to continue contributing to it afterwards! Living in Ripon, a lot of my current engagement is there as well. I am an Assistant Pole Vault Coach for Ripon College, and I am the Director of Membership for the Delta Pi Chapter Alumnae Association.
Share a lesson you have learned or a nugget of advice with other YP’s:
Believe in yourself. In new environments or with people you don’t know well, it can sometimes be hard be confident and believe in yourself – your thoughts, ideas and perspectives. However, most times, the hardest critique of your ideas is yourself. Sharing them and being confident in them can help bring new ideas to the table or give a new perspective. Even if your idea becomes a starting point for a brainstorming session or is not used this time, it is better to share your great thoughts, ideas, perspectives, etc. than hide them.
What do you love about the Fond du Lac area today and what is your hope for it’s tomorrow?
I love the variety of things there is to do! From the small businesses and local restaurants to the events going on around the area to the different walking trails, there is always something to explore. I hope the area continues to grow and flourish in this way!
