Nearly every day, callers from the UConn Phonathon reach out to the University’s friends and alumni. The calling program generated more than 17 percent of the $5.56 million raised by the Foundation’s annual giving department in 2009.  According to Karen Santasiere, head of the Fund for UConn, “Our program reaches out to more than 100,000 alumni, parents, and friends each year and on average raises $1 million for the University annually.”

Meet some of the student callers, sharing their personal stories about why they call for UConn, and some of the stories they’ve heard.

Jenni
English ’11

“Working as a caller has helped me enhance my communication skills, and it feels great to raise money for scholarships. My most memorable call was talking with an alumnus who enjoyed his time at UConn so much that he was more than happy to give $250, right off the bat. I enjoy talking to alumni who offer me advice and feedback about my field of study.”

Taylor
Allied Health ’12

“I wanted to become more involved on campus and a job at the Phonathon allowed me the chance to become more active, as well as make friends and gain money for the University. My most memorable call was to a woman who majored in dietetics. She provided me with several tips and advice on how to succeed in my studies as well as after graduation. I really enjoy hearing about the time alumni spent here at UConn and how it has changed over the years.”

Lawrence
Political Science/Journalism ’13

“It’s a fun group of people, and it’s always fun to talk to the alumni, learning their stories. Everyone is different and interesting in their own way. My most memorable call was to a senior who was so excited to help out his school that he gave a leadership-level gift.”

Hillary
Animal Science ’12

“I started at the Phonathon to make money at a fun job over the summer, and I love it, especially when I talk to alumni from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, because I love seeing what alums from my school are doing. I talked with an engineering alum about the fun he had at UConn and he donated $250! He told me that I was the best professional fundraiser he’s ever spoken with.”

Maya
Human Development & Family Studies and Sociology ’12

“I decided to work here because I get to talk to different people and hear about different experiences the alumni have had. It’s always interesting to hear the stories they share. One woman I called talked to me, just giving me advice about my major. She had studied the same thing. She also told me all about her dorm life. She just seemed to have so much Husky pride and enjoyed sharing that with me. This job helps me come out of my comfort zone. I’m a shy person but this job definitely helps me to be a little more outgoing.”

If you are a UConn student interested in working at the Phonathon, please click here!