Libby Weiler (ARSTBS ’11), is a public affairs specialist for the United States Department of Defense in Belgium. During this conversation, she discussed her career path and how her educational background allows her to approach her job creatively.
How did you first become interested in architectural studies?
I was always a creative soul growing up and actually started out at the University of Arkansas as an art major. I found I wanted to be challenged more and quickly found architecture to be of more interest.
Why did you decide to go to the University of Arkansas?
Within my family, there are many of us who have our names engraved on Senior Walk. I think that was the main reason I decided on the University of Arkansas — it was home.
How has your background in architectural studies helped you in your career?
As you advance in your career, you realize there are parts of your education that you’ll use on a daily basis and there are parts that you keep in the back of your head for a rainy day. I’d say I use my creative brain every day in my current field. At the end of the day, I’m not designing buildings, but I’m representing my organization through other creative outlets. I manage our website and digital app and represent my organization through digital photography.
What unique experiences or perspectives do you have that make you stand out in your field?
In an office setting, everyone brings something to the table. I’d say because my educational background is in creative arts, that allows me to bring a more creative approach to my everyday job.
What has been your career path so far?
After graduating from the University of Arkansas, I was burnt out with architecture. I still loved it, but I didn’t want to jump into a 9-to-5 job. I joined the United States Peace Corps and served as a youth development volunteer for almost two and a half years in Morocco. It allowed me to travel the world and experience other cultures, which I loved. When I came back to the United States, I spent two years at Arizona State University working on my Master of Science in Design. After writing my thesis on museums, I was picked up by the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. I spent close to five years working in their External Affairs and Digital Strategies Department as their digital content manager. Currently, I’m based in Belgium working for the Department of Defense.
What are some of your interests and involvements outside of work?
Because of where I’m currently living, I’m blessed to be able to go to major cities in Europe all within an hour or two commute. I try to take in as much exploring outside of work as humanly possible.
Who have been your biggest supporters?
My family has always been there and supported me in life.
What do you enjoy the most about your career?
I enjoy that I get to continue to challenge myself in creative ways outside of school and that I’ve found a way to take pieces of my education and use them in a different manner than what was taught in school. Just because you have a degree in one area doesn’t mean you can’t redefine yourself in another.