Alison

MINEROLOGIST

What's on your iPod?

I have 2 iPods: one large one that I use for storage, and a Nano that I actually use. The big one has everything from hip-hop, rap, R&B, blues, jazz, punk, rock, and classical. My Nano is a mixture of hip-hop and R&B—good for either working out or sleeping on a plane.

What are your favorite books?

Too many to list—how about authors? Flannery O'Connor, Roald Dahl, Haruki Murakami, Tom Robbins, William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Shakespeare—to name a few.

What made you choose to work at Nestlé Purina?

As soon as I interviewed, I knew that I wanted to work here because of the people and culture. I knew that the values, work ethics, and personalities within my department were a perfect fit for me. I also realized that working for such an organization would offer resources and support unlike many others.

What motivates you to continue working at Nestlé Purina?

I love my job and am able to be successful here. I have continuous support within my department and feel that I am able to contribute meaningful ideas and knowledge in many areas.

What has been the most advantageous opportunity provided to you at Nestlé Purina?

Being able to work and interact with people from all over the world is a great experience. In addition to geographic differences, it is wonderful to work with people with such diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise.

What has been the most rewarding thing about working at Nestlé Purina?

One of the most rewarding things about working at Nestlé Purina is feeling competent and valued.

Describe your greatest experience with Nestlé Purina.

I love being able to provide friends and family, and occasionally strangers, with information so that they have the healthiest, happiest pets possible.

What do you wish you would have known about Nestlé Purina while you were searching for a job?

The resources available to me here as a scientist are invaluable, and I did not initially realize their extent.

What is the most gratifying component about your current role?

One of the best things about my current role is that I get to share my knowledge and passion about geology and the earth with those around me. Being able to demonstrate its relevance in both the workplace and our everyday lives is an interesting challenge for me, as earth sciences seem to typically be overlooked and undervalued.

What exciting projects have you worked on?

I have worked on engineered litter and helping our factories increase capacity and continue conversion. It has been a great challenge and learning experience for me.

What has Nestlé Purina done to help you develop professionally or personally?

Nestlé Purina has made it possible for me to attend many professional conferences, workshops, seminars, and training courses. These have allowed me to network with others in similar fields, as well as collaborate with others that have totally different expertise to offer. I have also been able to take advantage of numerous personal development and growth opportunities.

How has Nestlé Purina supported your work-life balance?

I think there is an understanding here that if you are not happy in life, you will not be a happy, productive employee. Most people seem to operate on this assumption, while still exceeding performance expectations.

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?

I love to be outside for any reason, whether it be for a bike ride, a walk in the park, skiing, or just sitting on the porch. I also love to cook, and I practice yoga regularly.

When you're out on the town, where are we most likely to run into you?

Nowhere in particular-I like to keep my options open and am constantly look for new places to go. There are places all over the city and in every neighborhood that I like, but I have to mix it up!