Kiersten Denny: iSchool Alumna and Attorney

It’s not often that you come across a lawyer who has their bachelor’s degree in Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT). Florida State University School of Information alumna Kiersten Denny is currently working as an attorney at a company in Tallahassee called F & I Sentinal, LLC, which provides regulatory and industry compliance consulting for finance and insurance companies across the United States. After receiving her bachelor’s in ICT and Sport Management in 2015, Denny went on to earn her Juris Doctor from the Florida State University College of Law in May 2018.

When asked how her education prepared her for her career she responded, “My education was fundamental in preparing me for my career. My bachelor’s degree in ICT framed my mindset early on to approach issues from different vantage points in order to find a solution. Plus, my background in IT is often a standout point on my legal resume and leads to some good points of conversation. My legal education at FSU was also remarkable and has caused me to feel well-prepared for practicing in the real world.” Thriving in her position at F & I Sentinal, she attributes some of it to the environment of her coworkers. “My coworkers are the best part of my job.” Denny explains, “Everyone in the office is so friendly and encouraging. A great atmosphere goes a long way in job happiness.”

Get to know Kiersten better by reading our Q&A with her:

What is your favorite place in the world?

Floating on a boat at Crab Island, Destin, FL.

Best account to follow on social media?

Humans of New York

Where do you look for inspiration?

My friends, nature, and music. My friends are constantly doing amazing things that I find inspirational. Plus, taking the time to just enjoy nature or listening to a good jam always provides some great inspiration.

What was the last show you binge-watched?

The Handmaid’s Tale

Who do you admire and why?

My sister. She has the biggest heart of anyone I know and does anything within her power to take care of her family and others. She always puts others first and is so incredibly kind, both are traits that I truly admire.

Best piece of advice you have ever received?

Even when life is full of stress and worry, take time each day to identify the many positive blessings around you.

How did you become interested in this career/field?

I’ve never really had a specific idea of ‘what I wanted to be when I grow up.’ In undergrad I took some business law classes for the minor I pursued and realized I just really enjoyed learning about the law. It soon became clear that I wanted to be in a field that requires unique problem solving to complex issues. The legal world is often like trying to solve a puzzle and I love a good puzzle.

What would you say to someone who doesn’t know what career they’d like to pursue?

Don’t stress about it. The good thing about today’s world is that you don’t have to be at the same job forever. Try to identify topics that interest you and connect that to qualities of different careers. When I started college I made the very basic realization that I enjoyed sports and found technology interesting. So then I double majored with ICT and Sport Management and it was extremely rewarding. Deciding on a career can be a daunting task, but working is only one part of life. Just break it down and try to figure out what interests you and then go from there.

What advice would you give yourself in college?

Do more networking. I was really involved with campus organizations and frequently attended campus events, but I do wish I took more advantage of networking opportunities. It’s often who you know that matters!