Kaitlin graduated from Salem Academy in 2008 and attended the University of Pennsylvania where she majored in digital media design, a specialized program for computer graphics within the computer science department. After graduation, Kaitlin started her career as a technical director at DreamWorks Animation where she’s been ever since. Today, as a lead technical director, Kaitlin uses her technical skills to build tools and fix problems for the artists on an animated film production.

How did you and your family decide that Salem Academy was right for you?

In middle school, I did adequately but I wasn’t thriving. Schoolwork was probably too easy for me and while I had a handful of close friends, I felt uncomfortable in most social situations. Salem’s focus on academics, inviting atmosphere, and all-female learning environment appealed to us as a great place for me to advance academically while also developing socially and emotionally.

What’s one thing about Salem Academy that you would like everyone to know?

More than anything Salem gave me a love of learning. I grew to love classes outside my normal interests and to appreciate the diverse perspectives and skills they brought into my life. I’m learning something new every day and it’s what makes my life and career interesting and fulfilling.

Imposter syndrome is also something a lot of women face, and this has been my greatest tool against it, because of course I don’t know what I’m doing, that’s precisely why I’m doing it.

How does the Academy’s STEAM focus prepare students for college and careers?

STEM majors in college are still incredibly dominated by men and each year more women are dropping out of computer science because of the unwelcoming environment this can create. The percentage of women pursuing computer science degrees is now half of what it was in the 1980’s. I think it’s so important to expose younger women to the joys of these areas of study in an environment where they feel welcomed and supported to explore them and provide them with the skills and confidence to succeed in those fields should they choose to pursue them.

I love that STEAM now includes arts as well, because that intersection is what I love best. And in my experience, incorporating and encouraging creativity within the sciences and engineering is where I’ve seen women excel over their peers.

What’s your favorite memory of Salem Academy outside the classroom?

There are so many little traditions and shenanigans that happened at Salem that I’ll always remember. Staying overnight to decorate for ring banquet as a freshman and getting my ring as a senior; finding seven rings for seven spouses in my Smoosh Cake (I still have them!); weekend excursions to haunted houses and canoeing; so many passing moments in whatever corner of the class lounge we’d claimed that year; Ms. Howard deciding that PE class one day would be walking to Old Salem and getting sugar cake; birthday announcements during morning assembly; the purple gold rivalry (go Gold!); spending far too many hours in the little yearbook room; turning my tag in the tag room; and last but certainly not least – cookie break.

How did Salem Academy prepare you for college?

Salem allowed me to develop the confidence I needed both academically and socially to succeed in college. In my classes I learned how to tackle difficult assignments with success and handle disappointment when I didn’t do well. Through extracurriculars, I’d learned how to prioritize obligations as well as learn leadership and collaboration skills. But most of all Salem allowed me to feel comfortable and supported me in developing my independence and confidence so that I knew I could succeed at college.

What would be your recommendation to a student who is considering studying at Salem Academy, but can’t decide if she wants to attend?

Try to attend a prospective student weekend and meet your future potential classmates. The teachers and education are wonderful, but you probably already know that. It’s your Salem Sisters that really make it special.

Is there anything else you want to share about your experience at Salem Academy?

Your Salem Sisters will always be there for you, even to proofread these answers!