Like generations of alumni before him, when Brandon Pender graduated from MCLA in 2007, he immediately faced the challenge of beginning his career search. An English/Communications major with a concentration in broadcast media, Brandon returned to campus shortly after graduation to seek assistance and guidance from the Alumni Office and the Career Services Center. Staff in these offices helped him with resume building and offered advice on career networking.

After putting out several inquiries, Brandon met with Massachusetts State Representative Daniel Bosley ’76 who offered him a job as a research analyst supporting the work of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, of which Representative Bosley serves as House chair.   

As a research analyst, Brandon currently works on two major projects: efforts to expand broadband internet access across the Commonwealth, and especially in rural areas like Berkshire County; and Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE), which will enable doctors to enter and manage patient care orders electronically. Brandon is responsible for researching data on these issues, and reporting them to Representative Bosley. By relying on analysts like Brandon, Representative Bosley can make sure he has access to the most accurate and current information that relates to his district and his constituents.

Brandon notes that working for Representative Bosley gives him a chance to put his skills in communication, learned and honed at the College, to good work by interacting with people on a daily basis. His work has also increased his knowledge and understanding of politics, and turned Brandon into a self-professed “newshound.”

While he is unsure about what the future holds for him, Brandon credits much of his current good fortune and the exciting start he has made in his professional life to his connections and experiences at MCLA. Brandon notes, “No matter what I am doing it will represent me and the College in good light.”