During a brief interview we asked a few serious (and not-so-serious) questions of Lyra. Here is what we learned.
How has your experience at the Foundation helped you so far?
As part of UIF’s team, Lyra said she has strengthened essential traits such as time-management, communication and research techniques. All in all, she attributes her experience here as fantastic preparation for the real world. She describes this as an opportunity to work with amazing people, with a unified goal of bettering her University.
Tell us about your proudest Illini moment to date? Why?
As any true Illini would, Lyra couldn’t pick just one proud moment. She tracked one of her first proud moments back to when she surpassed $40k in fundraising as a student development representative in the UIF Call Center. In doing so, she felt “on top of the world,” having done a great service to her institution—especially during a frozen budget. The second moment she shared, occurred during her ongoing efforts with the local chapter of the Boys and Girls Club. Through the organization it was decided they would provide “Field Day” activities for the children they support. One of Lyra’s fondest moments in school was of “Field Day,” and she was disheartened to learn many of these kids had yet to experience such an event. The feeling of joy and excitement from the kids, and knowing without UIUC she would have never been there, made her thankful and proud to be an Illini.
What is your end goal after graduation?
Lyra described her dream job would be to manage an NGO’s project abroad. She loves the idea of managing a project internationally for extended periods of time, especially right out of school. Living out this dream would afford her the opportunity to immerse herself in other cultures’ ways, while simultaneously working to better others’ living standards.
What types of things keep you busy outside of school and work?
Outside of school and work, Lyra devotes her time to a social sorority on campus, and is a volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club of Champaign.
What’s one fun fact about you?
On top of all the other great things Lyra is doing on behalf of the University, we were intrigued to learn she is also fluent in Albanian!
Lyra, you are truly a well-rounded individual, and we are happy to have you within UIF and the greater Urbana community. You will undoubtedly do great things in this world! - UIF
/// Return to the September 2017 newsletter