Business owner, writer, speaker, trainer, author, coach — Erica Gumieny ’00 does it all. The focus of her business, Pivotal Point, LLC, is to connect, invigorate and inspire her clients so they can crush their goals. Gumieny finds that the tools she uses to help others are tools she learned at Alverno. “I get to take that same encouraging and challenging spirit of Alverno and share it with others and lift people and organizations up to be their best.”
A lot of young people are questioning whether they should even go to college. What made you decide to pursue your degree?
“I wanted to invest in myself and learn the skills necessary to move forward in my career as a business professional.”
Why did you choose Alverno?
“I liked the small classrooms and abilities-based learning style.”
What hurdles did you face while at Alverno, and how did you overcome them?
“I was a non-traditional student, so I went to college 10 years after graduating high school. This required a lot of time management as I was working full time in addition to going to school.”
Why do you think it’s important for women to get an education?
“I think it’s important for everyone – regardless of gender or status – to get the education they want to be the best they can be.”
Who were you when you first arrived at Alverno, and who are you now?
“I was more insecure and doubtful of my abilities. Today, thanks in part to the amazing faculty at Alverno, I am wiser and more confident and willing to learn and fail to become better.”
How did Alverno play a role in shaping you?
“Alverno was the most encouraging and validating space I found myself in. I was seen and challenged to fulfill my potential.”
Is there any advice you would give to a young person trying to decide whether college is worth it?
“Investing in yourself is never a bad choice. The return on investment of a great education will stay with you forever.”
Is there anything you’d like to add?
“Showing what you know is the way at Alverno. Googling something and getting the right answer is amazing and with AI there are so many tools and resources out there to learn information. But to critically think and apply that knowledge in a deep and meaningful way requires education beyond just a search or a prompt. Getting a great education with amazing teachers who get to know you can help you find your best self, your mightiest strengths and your true passion and purpose.”
