Alex Pan ’24 has always been drawn to the power of communication, policy, and problem-solving. As a student at Denison, he pursued a major in Communication, Politics, and Public Affairs, but his career path wasn’t always set in stone. Instead of locking himself into a single trajectory, Alex approached his future with an open mind and a strategic mindset—a philosophy that has helped him land professional experiences on Capitol Hill, in finance, and now in law school.
At Denison, Alex took full advantage of the resources and experiences available to him. He mentored peers as a Community Advisor, sharpened his problem-solving skills as a consultant in the Red Frame Lab, and regularly sought guidance from the Knowlton Center as he navigated career opportunities. He knew that success wasn’t just about finding the “right” path but about being prepared for opportunities before they arrived.
While some students enter law school with a lifelong dream of becoming an attorney, Alex took a different approach. He saw law school as a way to expand his ability to tackle complex societal challenges, drawing from his experiences in public policy, financial institutions, and consulting.
His professional journey has been anything but linear. From working on Capitol Hill, where he gained firsthand exposure to legislative processes, to analyzing financial instruments at a New York bank, Alex has consistently sought out opportunities that push him outside his comfort zone. Each experience shaped his understanding of how law, policy, and business intersect—and ultimately confirmed his decision to pursue a JD at Brooklyn Law School.
Advice for Students
Reflecting on his journey, Alex encourages Denison students to:
- Be bold, be curious, and be open to unexpected opportunities. Your career will evolve in ways you can’t predict—what matters is preparing yourself for whatever comes next.
- Distinguish between “interesting work” and a fulfilling career. Finding exciting internships is great, but think long-term about what will bring you both challenge and fulfillment.
- Use Denison’s resources to your advantage. The Knowlton Center, professors, alumni, and career coaches are all there to help—reach out, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to explore different industries.
How the Knowlton Center Helped
For Alex, career planning was a strategic puzzle. The Knowlton Center played a crucial role in helping him piece it all together—from summer internships and interviews to law school applications. “I made countless appointments with career coaches throughout my time at Denison,” Alex shares. “Their guidance helped me evaluate opportunities, weigh different paths, and ultimately make informed decisions. I encourage all students to take advantage of this incredible resource.”
