Jonathan Cilley isn't your typical history major. As manager of software development for Montgomery County (Maryland) Teachers Federal Credit Union, Cilley leads a team of six employees charged with enhancing the company's technological services.

"Most people find it hard to believe that I could do this with a liberal arts education," he says, "and I like to believe that my Allegheny education has allowed me to break through some of these stereotypes that exist in our educational and professional institutions."

Cilley, who has also worked as a web developer and project manager, says his Allegheny experience made him a more versatile employee. As a student he was challenged to adapt, think critically, and collaborate with others—all qualities that have helped him excel in the workplace and as a leader. He credits the senior project with teaching him to focus his writing and be concise during presentations. "In a business environment the ability to get to the point quickly while still conveying all of the information is extremely important," he says.

Cilley advises students to stay interested in more than just academics as they prepare for life beyond college. In fact, he says one of his best experiences at Allegheny was the opportunity to play drums in the pit orchestra at the Academy Theater.

"If I am going to hire you, I want to know that you have many diverse interests in the world around you because curiosity leads to many other things including creativity and innovation," he says. "Your major does not restrict you to your job role if you are passionate about what you are interested in."

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The First Five is a series of profiles celebrating the accomplishments of recent Allegheny College graduates in their first five years as alumni. Read more First Five profiles here.