Meet a USAC Member: Caitlyn Perry
What department do you work in and what is your job title?
Public Safety, Office of Emergency Management, Emergency Preparedness Program Coordinator
How long have you been a Vanderbilt employee?
Almost 3 years – I started January 13, 2020.
How long have you been a part of USAC and how has it impacted you?
This is my second year with USAC. I’ve enjoyed being able to interact with so many different people across the university. It’s nice to see so many people who care about making the University a better place for all of us.
What has been your career journey to lead you to where you are today?
When I was preparing to graduate from college, I wasn’t sure what to do with my meteorology degree. I found Emergency Management, which allowed me to partner my love for weather and desire to help keep people safe. I worked for Warren County Emergency Management in Bowling Green, KY, for two years before coming to Vanderbilt.
What do you enjoy most about Vanderbilt? (i.e. missions, benefits, views of sustainability, community, etc.)?
During the pandemic, I was asked if I was okay here (I didn’t have anyone in the Nashville area). I told them that there was no where else I would rather be working – I felt that Vanderbilt really took care of everyone to the best of the University’s ability. I felt like I could rely on my team and the community here.
What is one important skill every person should have?
Everyone should be able to read a map – or at least know where they live on a map. When hazards are in an area (i.e., severe weather), news agencies and emergency services will often refer to a map to show the impacted area. If you know where you are, you’ll be able to assess your risk.
What is the best perk you have ever had at a job?
In high school, I worked for a grocery store in East Tennessee. Each year, we were gifted tickets to Dollywood and the aquarium. That’s been hard to beat.
What do you enjoy doing to relieve stress?
Go to the gym, knit, hike, or play video games with my husband.
Are you more productive at night or in the morning? Do you think it is possible to change and get used to a new schedule?
I’m much more productive at night.
I think it’s possible to get used to a new schedule – it may just take time…and motivation.
If you could visit any country with no budget, where would you visit?
Ireland, no doubt!
What is your favorite type of music?
Video game soundtracks can be extremely diverse and impressive! (Nerd alert!)
What has been your favorite vacation you have ever been on?
I just went on my honeymoon in November, so I feel like it must be that! My husband and I went to Grand Rapids, MI. My in-laws inadvertently got our room upgraded to a balcony suite by requesting champagne for us. We visited the public museum, ate some of the best seafood I’ve ever had, went to a cat café (the highlight of the trip, let’s be real), and visited eight different breweries!
What are you most proud of in your life thus far?
I was the first person in my family to complete a college degree. I couldn’t have done it without my parents’ support!
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
Hiking!
What skill or talent would you most like to learn?
3-D modeling and animation would be really neat!
If you had an extra hour each day, how would you spend it?
I would probably write – journaling or narrative – or sleep.