35 under 35
Avana A. Subarich Gamma Omicron - San Diego State University
Civil Investigator, Office of Attorney General
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?
Having a degree in Criminal Justice has given me an endless amount of career options and, for the longest time, I wasn’t sure what I was passionate about in my career. Having such a diverse major allowed me the opportunity to explore several career paths. I have worked in a police department, with the Crime Scene Investigation team, intaking evidence from crime scenes, to working as a Loss Prevention Superior and to my current career as a Civil Investigator for the Office of Attorney General.
Having worked my way through various governmental systems, I have been able to learn, understand and grow with knowledge and experience. I started off at the local government level and progressed to the state level, working for the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Throughout my career progression, I learned how important each government is, and I have been given a different perspective and the importance to uphold, protect and serve our Constitution.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?
One exceptional mentor I have had the pleasure of working with is in my current professional career, at the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. She is a Deputy Attorney general and also a Captain in the Marine Corps. She is a strong leader, who is culturally diverse, humble, compassionate, intelligent and ambitious.
I have learned from her that there is no task too small or big to accomplish. She welcomes and supports every person that comes her way, in hopes of making a positive impact on their life. This type of leadership and attitude is something I admire and hope to display to others around me. I have also learned that the willingness to take risks and share experiences will allow one to succeed further in life.
What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?
The only thing you will lose is not trying.
What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?
One of my favorite and most impactful books I have read is ”The Great Gatsby,” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It has a variety of characters and a plot that unfolds drawing the readers in and immersing them in a world of dreams and reality. Gatsby clings on to the past but also wants to live in the future and because of this, his life suffers. It displays a theme about the downfall of the American Dream and the ways at which materialism and consumerism can corrupt the most well-intentioned people. Each character is complex and relatable and are also fascinating in their own ways. The “Roaring ‘20’s” captures the glamor and excess of the era, from the lavish parties Gatsby hosts, but also highlights a darker side, of the seedy underworld of crime. It critiques materialism, inequality and the pursuit of wealth and status, which still remains in today’s world.
How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?
One way I like to stay connected in my professional network is to use LinkedIn. I try to make it a point to connect with a variety of different individuals on there. I also try to read different postings from each person on LinkedIn. Each person is different, and I am able to learn something from each of them. Knowledge is power and you can never have too much of it.
Another way I am able to professionally connect with people is through a business social networking club I am a part of. Being a member of a club, like this, allows me to travel to different cities to meet a variety of people from different business backgrounds. Having the opportunity to network in person and in different cities gives me diversity and an understanding of the different types of careers available in our world.
How have friendships helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
I have one close friend from graduate school, Shara, who has supported and guided me throughout my career journey. With her being almost ten years older than me, she is an exceptional individual to look up to. During her 20’s, she had the courage to move to London for a job opportunity, which gave me the inspiration and courage to apply for jobs out of state. Her support and confidence in me, has allowed me to be more comfortable in taking risks and achieving all the goals I set for myself. Her inspiration, kindness and intelligence makes me want to be an exceptional woman like her.
Friendships are the foundational support we need to achieve our goals; they are our hype team providing us the confidence we need. Friendships are everlasting, and they are the acceptance of who you are.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Attend sporting events or explore different parts of the city.