Alumni Reflections: William Judd

By Monica Huzinec

William Judd graduated in 2014 with a bachelor of science degree in biology and biochemistry from the University of Cincinnati's College of Arts and Sciences.

Soon after, he earned an MBA and now works for TriHealth as an academic research coordinator at Bethesda North Hospital.

Looking back, Judd says, he is grateful for the A&S foundation that launched his career and helped him research new ways to improve patient care and health care.

What lessons have you learned during your career so far?

Judd: I've learned that hard work is not what will earn you a promotion or recognition at a job. It’s what you accomplish through that work. You will not be rewarded for how hard you try to do something. You only get credit for what is truly done. Additionally, you can do everything right and still come up short. Sometimes bad things happen that are out of your control, but they are still your responsibility. Do not shy away. Attack the problem and learn from the experience.

Did your education take you anywhere unexpected?

Clinical research largely fell into my lap thanks to my education through A&S and the wonderful research opportunities I had with the Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Departments. Those experiences helped lead me into a life of research which I was already well prepared to take on as a career.

While attending UC, were there any people or programs that significantly impacted your experience?

Academically, the most impactful were my experiences with research under Drs. Anna Gudmundsdottir and Patrick Limbach. I thoroughly enjoyed my time working in each of their labs and learned a lot about the proper ways to conduct research.

What do you think are are the most important skills you gained as a student that you still use today?

I learned how to research a subject and develop my own thoughts and opinions instead of taking what other people would state at their word. I took away how to research more efficiently and developed the ability to quickly filter information. Additionally, I gained very important writing skills throughout my studies. I think people underestimate how much writing can be involved in the average job. If you are a poor writer, it serves as a reflection of your ability to communicate.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I am very fortunate to have attended UC. My family has been a fantastic support system and sacrificed so much to help me arrive where I am today, so I would be remiss if I didn’t specifically thank my mother and father for everything they’ve done. If you are an alumnus, I would encourage you to remain active in the UC community. Financial donations are a great way to give back to UC, but I also encourage you to return and spend some time giving back as well. I volunteer as part of the A&S Alumni Activity Board and was fortunate to be elected president of the inaugural board starting in 2017. We have so much to offer and giving back a few hours here and there, can make our community, nation, and world a better place. Juncta Juvant.

Featured image at top: UC's McMicken Hall. Photo/Beth Vleaminck