Jacqueline Bascetta, B.A. 2012
Senior Project Manager, Pullman, Pullman SST – New York, NY
2012 Major: Religious Studies and Physics
How has being a Religion graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?
"I work on restoration of historic buildings. While working on my degree in religious studies, I studied at Oxford for a summer semester (specifically for a course in religion/philosophy dept.). In the UK I fell further in love with architecture and also had a respect for how cultural/religious understanding affects a building's construction, alterations, and significant features. I visited Bath UK with the Duke in Oxford group and wound up returning for my Masters of Science in Conservation of Historic Buildings at the University of Bath. I now work on restoration of historic structures and my knowledge of religious studies does influence my methodology for approaching projects and also assures clients that I have an understanding and respect for their historic structures."
What advice would you give students in Duke's Religion programs?
"Take advantage of all opportunities and feel free to go outside the box. If you can incorporate your interests into your major and your job, you will find your work and studies fun. I took religious courses that mixed in my love for music, art, movies, and travel. I also have some of the most interesting conversations with people about something I've learned in my classes 10+ years ago."
