Megan Tkacy

BY MEGAN TKACY Published April 28, 2026 The worst-kept secret among job seekers is that it’s all about who you know. It’s also something Smithies are acutely aware of. From day one, Smith College students are taught the importance of networking and connection and that it’s never too early to tap into Smith’s robust network of nearly 54,000 alums spanning 116 countries.

Working with National Geographic is an end-all, be-all goal for many photographers. Nick Terry ’26 made it happen while he was still in high school. It was Terry’s mother who came across the opportunity: a photography clinic for young students in Yellowstone National Park led by National Geographic’s Drew Rush. She encouraged her son to go for it. “I wasn’t sure I was going to get in, because I had no idea what I was doing with photography.

Team USA’s Ilona Maher is someone student-athletes aspire to be—and not just for her unshakable confidence and superstrong physique. During the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, Maher made headlines for her fierce performance and for wearing a state-of-the-art mouthguard that lit up when she was hit too hard.