What is your preferred name?
Jay Heinzen
What is your major and minor?
Sociology with a Specialization in Criminal Justice and a Minor in Middle Eastern Studies.
What are some of the jobs you held while at McDaniel?
Here at McDaniel College I worked for Sodexo.
What organizations were you a part of at McDaniel? What positions did you hold?
- Former President of Canine Companions for Independence
- Allies
- Gamma Sigma Sigma
Did you enjoy your time at McDaniel? How?
I did enjoy my time at McDaniel. I met a lot of incredible people and I grew into the person I never thought I could be. I am myself, I am happy, and I am ready to take on the next chapter.
Who do you think is/was your best mentor(s)?
Jennifer Marana former Director of ODMA; Heidi Huber; and Dean Lisa Breslin. They believed in me and pushed me to continue to better myself. They have stood by me through it all, and if it wasn’t for each of them I would not be finishing my senior year of college.
What is your best memory at McDaniel?
I have a lot of incredible memories here at McDaniel. But, my best memory is seeing all people that have come together, and who I have worked with to make this school a better place for the transgender community. I have watched the trans* community grow every year – and while there’s still a lot of work to be done, this is a safe place for trans* students.
What were some of the challenges you encountered and how did you overcome them?
I dealt with a lot of personal things on top of all the academics. The biggest challenge I faced was overcoming negativity and pushing myself to succeed.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Currently, I am working to get into Homeland Security.
What advice can you give to those not graduating?
Things happen on your own timeline not everyone else’s. Don’t be afraid to do new things and challenge yourself. But always remember that the most important thing is to take care of yourself.
Is there anything else you want to share with the McDaniel community?
Take a moment and get to know those around you — McDaniel is a unique school, it is filled with incredible and caring people.
