Alumni Spotlight: Janay Nelson

Janay Nelson 
‘16 B.S, Criminal Justice Administration
Women’s Volleyball & Basketball

Get ready for another edition of Alumni Spotlight: Where are They Now? This time, we feature a standout student-athlete who excelled in multiple sports and in the classroom! Janay was an accomplished student during her time at Central Penn and continues to excel after graduation. Let's check in with Janay Nelson…

1. What accomplishments are you most proud of?

Just graduating because college can sometimes be difficult. Thankfully, CPC helped to make the journey a little easier than other colleges. The flexibility of the classes and the number of faculty and staff who were willing to put in extra help and hours to accommodate individual students and their needs. It’s like a family––from our coaches to professors.

2. Where is your current place of employment?

I work from home in Pennsylvania! I’m originally from Maryland, but I ended up back in Pa. after a year of going back home.

3. What is your current job title and what does the position entail?

I currently work as field investigator for Paragon Investigations. I conduct interviews with candidates who need security clearances for the military and military-related jobs. Then I perform background investigations, conduct research and prepare reports of my investigations in compliance with all federal regulations and laws.

4. What sports and/or clubs were you involved in at CPC and are you still playing now?

I played basketball and volleyball! I sometimes play pickup games of either sport if they are available.

5. What is your greatest post-graduation accomplishment?

My greatest post-graduation accomplishment is being able to work in my field that I studied in. I’ve always wanted to be an investigator… just didn’t know what kind at the time until this position came along.

6. What is one thing Central Penn Athletics taught you that you carry with you today?

Never give up and keep pushing! Things will be okay at the end of the tunnel.

7. What advice can you give current students?

It’s not as hard as you think it might be. Other colleges aren’t as flexible as CPC either. Don’t overwhelm yourself and take as many classes as you can. You can make this dream happen!

8. How did your athletic involvement aid in the path that you chose following graduation?

I’ve always been an athlete since I was in elementary school, so it’s been in my life for forever and it’s so natural to me! But it does keep you focused on school and makes you want to work harder. It teaches you accountability.

9. If you can recall, why did you choose to attend CPC?

I loved that it was only classes Tuesday–Friday, so you get an extra day of relaxation! But more so that there were small classes and the teacher can focus one-to-one with you if necessary.

10. What was your favorite non-ahletic activity at CPC? 

Working for Career Services.

11. Do you have a favorite quote or inspiring words to share?

Everything happens for a reason.

12. What is something people may not know about you?

I bought a house before I was 25!