How the ‘great books’ prepared Program of Liberal Studies major Quinn McKenna ’23 for her postgrad chapters
Quinn McKenna ’23, a Program of Liberal Studies major, reflects on how her liberal arts education prepared her for diverse career chapters—from nonprofit work in South Bend to teaching in Panama on a Fulbright scholarship, and now marketing consulting for purpose-driven clients like Notre Dame.
About the journey
McKenna’s professors advised her to focus on the next chapter, letting passion guide her path. “If you let your interests and your passion guide this next chapter, everything will unfold as it should,” she said. Since graduating, her liberal arts training in writing and critical thinking has empowered her across roles in nonprofits, education, and consulting.
“The liberal arts open doors and possibilities,” she said. “And prepare you well for whichever path you decide to take.”
Academic growth
As a self-described “book nerd,” McKenna was drawn to the Program of Liberal Studies for its small, discussion-based classes on foundational texts. “The primary thing I wanted out of my education was growth, immersion, and excitement,” she said. “I wanted to go to class excited about what I was going to learn.”
In the College of Arts & Letters, she found a community of curious peers with diverse career paths—from Montessori teachers to venture capitalists. “That gave us all a really good opportunity to bounce ideas off of each other and figure out for ourselves what we felt called to do.”
Early career chapters
McKenna’s first role after graduation was with Downtown South Bend, where she planned community events like First Fridays to connect local businesses and residents. Next, she pursued a Fulbright scholarship to teach English in Chiriqui, Panama—a promise she made to herself for cross-cultural immersion.
In Panama, she taught English across multiple levels, even designing a university-level English literature course. “Teaching and speaking a different language is another incredible way to improve communication and critical thinking skills,” she said. The experience strengthened her independence and adaptability.
Marketing consulting
After her Fulbright, McKenna leveraged her communication skills in marketing consulting at Global Prairie, where she works with mission-driven clients like university health systems and college athletics departments. The firm’s founder values liberal arts graduates for their curiosity and agility.
One of her current projects is Hesburgh Women of Impact, where she helped refresh the brand identity, develop a new website, and design materials for their annual Women for Good Weekend event.
“I will always be grateful for my liberal arts education,” McKenna said. “I’ve not had a single regret in terms of what I studied and what direction I ended up taking.”
Philosophy
McKenna’s favorite text from her studies is Lucretius’ The Way Things Are, which frames life as a feast to enjoy with gratitude. “That is the approach to life I want to take,” she said. “I want to be present, be grateful for where I am, and let that gratitude satiate me.”