YPC 2016 Business Relations Coordinator

Chelsea Ochylski

Young Professionals Connection (YPC) Board Position: Business Relations Coordinator

Hometown: West Des Moines, Iowa

Alma Mater: University of Northern Iowa

What do you do? Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at Drake University

Q&A

What’s a day in your job like? My primary responsibility is working with all of the Drake University Alumni outside of Greater Des Moines (DSM). I work with Drake Alums to plan and coordinate events in their regional areas. These events range from large, national events such as Drake’s National Day of Service to smaller events like happy hours and everything in between! In my role, I work with alumni all across the nation to put on over 100 events annually. No two days are alike in my position! I love the consistent challenge to put on exciting and rewarding events- whether they are one-time events or annual events, I love to make sure each event I work on has a unique flair to it.

What are your passions outside of work? When you’re not at work, what will we find you doing? Outside of work I love to spend time with my friends. I am definitely not a fan of cold weather, during the winter I tend to become a bit of a hermit. During the warmer months you will most likely find me outdoors enjoying the weather. From the Des Moines Farmers' Market to concerts, I love being outside! One of my favorite things to do is catch a UNI or Iowa football game in the fall at one of our awesome local watering holes. I have also recently been accepted to the Drake University Masters of Public Administration Program so, schoolwork is a high priority for me as well!

Where’s your favorite (something) in Des Moines? My favorite thing about Des Moines is how much there is to do! I love all of the unique restaurants and bars, as well as stores. As far as food goes- I’m not a huge fan of chain restaurants. There are so many bars and restaurants in Des Moines that are so unique, which I love! Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely despise huge shopping malls. Des Moines’ unique stores and smaller shopping areas really help relieve the stress of heading out to a mall.

What is something you would like to see added or changed about Des Moines? Des Moines is a totally different place than it was when I was growing up here. I think the continued growth and development of Des Moines is extremely important and special. It’s awesome to live in a larger city with a small city feel.

What are your words to live by? My favorite phrase is, “Be the change you wish to see in the world” — Mahatma Gandhi. This phrase always reminds me to go the extra mile to do more and to be better. Change does not happen by wishing or hoping — change happens by doing. I strive to do more and be better for myself and for future generations.

What projects have you been involved with in YPC? Last year I was involved with the Volunteer Committee and served as a leader of events. I served as a leader for fellow committee members to put on successful events such as the Paws and Pints happy hour with the Animal Rescue League at Firetrucker Brewery in Ankeny. I also served on the Golden Circle Games Committee and assisted the team in putting on a successful event.