Name: Makayla Doherty
Class Year: 2025
Title: Senior Benefits Coordinator
Organization Name: NFP an Aon Company
1. In one sentence, what does your job entail?
Consulting internationally headquartered companies with U.S. offices on employee benefits, working with carriers to secure plans that meet client needs.
2. What planned and unplanned events connected you to your industry and your first employer after Holy Cross? How did you learn/decide it was a good fit for you?
I knew I wanted a people-facing role such as HR but wasn’t sure exactly what path to take. A family friend and Holy Cross alum introduced me to the benefits field and connected me with others in the industry. Through those conversations, I realized it was the path I wanted to pursue and he suggested I apply to NFP. Since starting at Holy Cross, I’ve always wanted to do work that helps people and makes a positive impact on their lives. Benefits play a critical role in supporting employees and their families, and being able to contribute—even in a small way—to providing those resources is incredibly rewarding.
3. What were you involved in when you were on campus?
Women’s Club Ice Hockey, Business Certificate Program, Campus Rec Employee, and in SPUD
4. What was your major and how did it affect your career decisions?
I was a psychology major and have always been interested in understanding how people think and act. Up until my senior year, I thought I wanted to go to grad school to become a psychologist, but I was also drawn to the corporate world. Consulting felt like a great fit because I enjoy helping people and my classes at Holy Cross gave me valuable insight into why people behave the way they do. In my role, I work closely with my account team on various projects while building strong relationships with carriers and clients.
5. What are one or two skills that you developed at Holy Cross that you use in your work?
Holy Cross’s tight-knit community taught me the importance of collaboration and how to work effectively with others. Whether in classes or extracurriculars, I was constantly working with people and learning how they operate. Collaboration is central to my job—whether with coworkers, clients, or carriers—and understanding how each works helps me support them effectively.
6. What advice do you have for students on campus today?
My biggest advice is to take advantage of every opportunity, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. You never know what you’ll learn or who you’ll meet.
7. What are your thoughts on how AI has impacted or will impact your industry? What advice do you have for students as they prepare to enter a professional world where AI is prevalent?
The people I’ve spoken with about AI feel job security remains strong—everyone needs insurance, and many aspects still benefit from human explanation. Right now, we’re exploring ways AI can make our work easier, like drafting emails or cleaning up meeting notes. For someone entering the workforce, it’s a great time to learn about AI, understand how it applies to your industry, and seek trainings that help you stand out, even though the field is still evolving.