We hope that you have enjoyed our Peek into the Lives of our Award Honorees series. To wrap up the series we spoke to Kali Chan, Director of Medicine Media Relations at Stony Brook Medicine.

Tell us a little bit about your transition from college life to your first job in the communications field.

After graduating from Indiana University in Bloomington, I returned to Long Island and served as the assistant to the executive director for the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce.  I collaborated with Village historians and Town of Brookhaven Economic Development representatives. This position provided a glimpse into event planning, marketing, and journalism.

Next, I sought out new opportunities for a full-time communications position. My big break and first job in the communications field was at Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. I consistently moved up in the organization to assume the role of assistant director of communications and special events. I embraced the mission and had a commitment to learn new skills such as public relations, fundraising, grant writing, graphic design, and photography.

If you had the ability to go back in time, what career advice would you give yourself at 18?

A few life rules.

If you do not go after what you want, you will never have it.

Invest in your relationships. Nurture and treasure your friends and family members. Kindness towards others tends to be rewarded.

Great career advice to continuously be part of our lives. Thank you. What one thing would surprise your friends and co-workers to learn about you?

When I have spare time, I enjoy baking and cooking and have a few foolproof recipes thanks to the Food Network, Skinnytaste, and Delish.

And, I have a knack at finding unique, inexpensive vacation destinations. Previous trips include Lake Tobias Wildlife Park in Halifax, PA and National Watch & Clock Museum in Columbia, PA.

Thank you Kali for answering our questions.  And a big thanks to all our honorees for giving us all a peek into your lives.

We wish our honorees heartfelt congratulations on your Award and we look forward to being together on May 8^th at the Westbury Manor.