Riley Hiebert, U'24, M'26
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What have you been up to since graduating from Saint Mary?
Since graduating from Saint Mary, I have been working in the laboratory as a medical technologist for a lab in Lenexa, Kansas called Mosaic Diagnostics. I run various tests including Glyphosate, bead coupling, food sensitivity, and I am currently learning ICP-MS Metal testing for hair! My favorite part about my job is that I get to do different things every day, all while helping people and making a difference!
How did your time at Saint Mary prepare you for your career?
My time at Saint Mary helped prepare me for this job by making sure I had good time management. One thing about the workforce is always making sure you’re early, because that’s being on time. Coach Benton and Coach Ryan always made sure we were on time to practice. My professors taught me everything I need to know in my career, especially my science professors. I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for them!
What is a memorable experience you had during your time at Saint Mary?
A memorable time I had at Saint Mary would definitely have to be the 3rd place nationals trophy the girls cross country team brought home for the first time in 2023. Being part of that history is something I am never going to forget. So proud to see that the cross country team continues to grow and thrive today!
Have you stayed in touch with any of your professors or classmates?
I have stayed in touch with a lot of classmates since graduating and still meet up for dinner to catch up. I don’t keep in touch with a lot of professors, but I will stop and say hello every time I see them out and about!
What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates?
Some advice I would give current students would be to enjoy the time you have as a Spire. Those were some of the best years of my life, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Go to those sand volleyball tournaments and home sports events because those will make a lot of core memories. To new grads, the adulting life is a little rough at first but hang in there, it gets easier!
Are there any achievements or milestones you would like to share with the Saint Mary community?
A milestone that I have reached since graduating would definitely have to be running in the Boston Marathon this past April. If you ever get the chance to participate or even go watch, it is an experience everyone should go through at least once in their life! I also bought a car and am going to hopefully buy a house within the next year!
How do you stay connected with the Saint Mary alumni network?
I stay connected with the Saint Mary alumni network by being part of the alumni board, so I go to all the meetings and know what is going on. I also receive all of the emails, follow the social media page, and go to alumni events like the Sporting KC game!
What hobbies or interests are you currently pursuing?
Some hobbies I am currently pursuing are hanging out with my family, gardening, and reading a good book when I go on walks! It helps me wind down from a long day and gives my brain a rest.
Do you have any favorite Saint Mary traditions that you still cherish?
A favorite Saint Mary tradition I have would have to be the kickball tournament/sand volleyball tournament before school starts. It gives a fun start to the fall semester. Another tradition I love is the home cross country meet that Coach Benson and Coach Ryan put together at the beginning of the fall season. It allows alumni to come home and see how well the team is doing and cheer them on as they kick off the season!