Staff Profile: Vanessa Brillo

Vanessa Brillo, Department of Physics academic administrative assistant, has been working at Harvey Mudd for three years. Her work at supports the physics department in a multitude of ways. From managing student workers to keeping track of department funds and faculty grants to organizing department events, she spends her days helping the department run as smoothly as possible. Learn more abut her in this Q-and-A.

What is something people don’t understand about your job that you wish they did?

I’ve had some people compare my job to a receptionist. In fact, answering phone calls is a very small part of my day-to-day duties. I do way more accounting and staring at excel spreadsheets than fielding calls.

If you could swap jobs with any other HMC employee for a day, who would it be and why?

I worked as a barista back in college, so switching with one of the wonderful people at The Café for a day sounds like a great way to relive those memories (and also because there’s something oddly satisfying about steaming milk).

What’s your favorite food/dish in the Hoch-Shanahan Dining Hall?

Pho. PHO. Did I say pho? Because I love pho.

What’s your favorite hobby, activity or creative outlet?

I have sooo many, I can’t pick just one! Right now they’re weightlifting, reading, singing and paint-by-numbers.

What’s the best piece of advice someone has given you, either in life or at work?

Don’t wait until you’re writing a eulogy or attending someone’s funeral before you express your appreciation for the people in your life. Do it now, and do it often.

What is your most effective strategy for dealing with stress?

Hanging out with friends and family. There’s something about shared laughter that heals my heart when I need it most.

Are you studying or learning something new? (a skill, a language, a sport, etc.)

I’ve been dabbling in calligraphy, crocheting and learning ASL, though I admit those are slow-going.

What book or podcast are you enjoying right now?

Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories is on Spotify and my all-time favorite podcast, though I don’t believe they’re making any more new episodes.