Nick Brattan '76

Get to Know Our February 2018 Honoree

Students can count on seeing Nick Brattan '76 at Mock Interviews each semester. Nick is involved in a variety of events put on by the Dorothy S. Rogers Career & Professional Development Center, has hired multiple interns, and mentors on campus students as they prepare for their post-grad careers. Read why this alumnus has continued to stay involved since his time at NHC.
 

What inspires you to volunteer at SNHU?

I have enjoyed mentoring throughout my entire career and what better place to give back than wonderful SNHU, or New Hampshire College, as I remember it. The experiences at NHC helped formed who I am today and set the course of my life. I am so fortunate to be a business owner and I love to share my story and experiences in the hopes it may spark excitement and guidance for a student. I feel anyone with drive and passion about something can reach their goals.  I try to instill upon them to pursue something you love, so it’s not just a job. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to try something; if you fail, you will learn and move on to the next experience. That’s what I want to pass on.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at SNHU?

Seeing all of the bright enthusiastic students, they excite me and inspire me to continue volunteering. If I can make a small difference in one person’s life, I see no greater reward. It’s truly an honor for me to volunteer; you make the alumni feel so welcomed. Some of the programs such as Mock Interviews and Shark Tank Angel Investor events provide exceptional value for the students.

I love the environment you have established to allow interaction with students and alumni. The students are exposed to real world business situations that give them the experience and tools to grow professionally and plan for their future. It’s then up to them to make the proper choices.

What results have you seen from your efforts?

Since I continue to stay involved, I see students through multiple years and it’s rewarding to see them mature, create, and reach their goals, hopes, & dreams. I have hired some interns and am currently working with a group of Degree in Three students on an Academic Consultancy Project. These students are so focused and energized; I only wish I had those opportunities back in the day.

Did anything unexpected happen as a result of your volunteer activities?

I had some wonderful emails from some of the students I have met, keeping me up-to-date with their progress. Some have reached out to me on LinkedIn and a couple have actually asked if they could meet me at my office and tour our facility to get a better understanding of how a small business operates. I stay in touch with an intern from over five years ago, that’s enjoyable.

Will you continue to volunteer at SNHU? Why?

Perhaps, somewhat for selfish reasons, I volunteer because of what it does for me. It’s inspiring and maybe keeps me young-at-heart being around this generation of adults. I am constantly asking myself, how would I have handled this situation, question or opportunity when I was their age?

Will you encourage others to get involved? How?

Bob Camire '02 '16G, my Director of HR and Operations Manager, is also an alumnus. He saw what I was doing and now he is volunteering for anything that is available. I think any alumni can bring something to the table; everyone has something unique that might resonate with a student.

Past Volunteer Spotlight Honorees