Alumni Spotlight - Deborah Cook '89

Name: Deborah Cook, but most people call me Deb or Debbie

Hometown: Laurelton, NY (That's in Southeast Queens by Kennedy Airport)

Graduation Year: 1989

Where are you now? East Elmhurst, NY (by LaGuardia Airport)

What are you doing? My day job is an Human Resources Business Partner at a financial institution. My night and weekend job is a dance studio owner in Brooklyn.

What is your favorite Wooster memory? For some reason what stands out in my head is our student production of the musical "Don't Try This At Home." I still have that tune stuck in my head when I'm in situations that seem a little crazy or ironic.

What impact did your Wooster education have on you? I was a boarding student, so study hall was a big part of our day. We had to gather each night after dinner in the dining hall and do our homework. It was tough back then, but it taught me so much discipline. To this day when I need to concentrate and get work done, I need that quiet time to concentrate - no music, no tv, nothing. I feel most productive when in that zone.

What advice would you like to share with current Wooster students? Try to enjoy your time in school, learn as much as you can and build friendships with your peers and teacher. Education and relationships are invaluable and will carry you through life.