While hard work and long hours may deter some, Southern Lehigh alumna Samantha Kovacs is more than happy to put in the time necessary as program coordinator for the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN).

“I love that I have a mission. All nonprofits have a mission statement, or something they’re trying to do in the world,” Kovacs said. “The mission of my organization, PLEN, is to increase the number of women in policy positions, especially policy leadership.”

The nonprofit world can feel like a jungle gym to many who pursue careers in these organizations, but with the right preparation, they can find success. Kovacs received her bachelor degree in international affairs with a minor in women’s studies from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The centrally-located college allowed her to find internships easily at companies such as Grieboski Global Strategies, which gave her the skills she needed to thrive no matter where her professional life went.

“My job falls a lot into project management: what’s done, what needs to be done, and being able to know different timelines,” Kovacs said. “Communication is important: being able to talk to people, being able to convey your thoughts properly, listening to other people and what they’re saying or not saying through body language.”

In high school, Kovacs was drum major in the marching band, and a cheerleader. She also participated in mock trial, Spanish Club, and the National Honor Society. Today, Kovacs continues to uphold the four pillars of NHS as she provides service and demonstrates leadership in her job.

“I think her accomplishments are truly inspiring,” gifted coordinator and social studies teacher Mrs. Katie Quartuch said. “I commend her for choosing a career that fit her passions. She didn’t just sort of take a degree and look for a job that would pay her the most money; she wanted to make a difference.”

Kovacs’ home is adorned with political posters and artifacts, showing her love for domestic and international affairs. In her free time, she enjoys watching Netflix and reading.

“I’m proud of her because her job seems very important to me, and I know that she will be able to help a lot of people with the talents and skills she has,” sophomore Alyssa Kovacs, Samantha’s youngest sister, said.

For current high school seniors, Samantha Kovacs recommends taking it easy and remembering to breathe every once in awhile.

“I think it’s good to have high expectations of yourself and I think it’s important to put good pressure on yourself, but make sure that it’s positive pressure as opposed to saying, ‘Oh, you did horribly,’ and being negative,” she said. “Be proud of yourself and make sure you don’t have limits. Keep your mind open.”