Brett VanBuren, Marist '19 

Brett majored in History and is currently attending law school.

What has your career path been to this point?

After a three-year career working in advertising with clients such as Old Navy, IHOP, The Washington Post, LegalZoom, and others I have decided to go to law school. I will be attending the Syracuse University College of Law for the next three years. I hope to pursue a career in international contracts.

Can you share an experience/memory from your time at HRVI that stands out as meaningful?

As part of my research into New York in the American Revolution I was able to collaborate with state and local organizations. This collaboration advanced my own career and gave me some great mentors and friends. I also thoroughly enjoyed the banter amongst Andy and Chris.

How has your experience at HRVI helped you advance your education and/or professional pursuits since graduating from Marist?

In addition to helping me land an internship with New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, HRVI taught me the value of collaboration and achieving goals. For my own projects at HRVI I was able to work with unique people and organizations who all came together to achieve goals. I know that in my legal career my research abilities will make me a better attorney and the work I did at HRVI tapped into my passion for the American Revolution and local history.

As HRVI celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2022, do you have any advice for future HRVI interns based on your time at HRVI and your experience in your professional field?

Reach out to Marist alums and ask questions to anyone you come across. Your professional network is extremely important to advance your career and everyone wants you to succeed you just need to ask!