Getting To Know: David J. Ruda
David J. Ruda
Job title: Assistant Director of Undergraduate Programs
Job duties: I work closely with our First Year Development Program (FYDP) on course content. I work with Advising Center staff to implement many of the undergraduate programs. Right now, we are working on a social entrepreneurship project for all students in FYDP that is really exciting. I also meet with many leaders in the School to discuss how we can support their efforts.
How long have you worked at GW: Four-and-a-half years; I moved to D.C. in June of 2008, and this June will mark my five-year GW anniversary.
What’s best, so far, about working here: Throughout my time at GW, the quality of professionals I have been fortunate to work with has impressed me. I have always felt blessed to be around people who inspire me to challenge the status quo and work hard. Also, I really enjoy the students I work with: they are motivated, dynamic and determined to exceed expectations.
What’s something your co-workers do not know about you: I studied abroad in Spain during summer of 2005, and I traveled to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls. Sadly, I did not actually run with the bulls that weekend; I just chilled with friends and watched others run because I didn’t think there was any safe space to run with the bulls in the street.
Where did you grow up: Canton, Ohio.
Family: My mother and father reside in Canton, where I grew up. My mother is a kindergarten teacher and my father is in sales and marketing. My sister is four years younger, lives in Cleveland, and manages the office and coordinates event planning for a data management company. (The company found her on LinkedIn when they were setting up office in Cleveland; that really does happen!)
Any hobbies? I really enjoying running and staying active. I enjoy exploring D.C. and trying new types of food with my two roommates. Also, I am doctoral student in counseling, so I don’t have much free time, but I do make the most of the time I have.
What do you enjoy doing on the weekend: Traveling to see friends and family.
Favorite vacation spots: Jamaica. I haven’t been in a while and need to go back.
A favorite book: The World According to Monsanto by Marie-Monique Robin. I am very interested in how nutritious the food we consume is, and how that has changed over time.
A favorite movie: Twister. (I know, you are thinking, “Really? How could he really like Twister as a movie?”)
A favorite food: Oysters on the half shell – the best appetizer.
E-mail: ruda@gwu.edu
Phone: 202-994-8313
Posted by gwsb on January 29, 2013 | Filed under: GWSB News.
