Jillian Ryan

About Jillian Ryan

9,600 feet. An elevation that left me out of breath and filled my heart with utter joy. Although my lungs hated me, my eyes were opened to the power of taking a leap of faith and pursuing passion. Now, I wouldn’t consider coddling snotty children or nearly losing my toes to frostbite to be a dream life. But for me, the Rockies reignited the stoke for life I was desperately searching for. 486 feet. An elevation that has driven me to tears – from the anxiety of all-night study-seshes to the pure bliss of rushing Franklin Street following heart-stopping basketball victories (sorry Coach K). Although walking up the stairs is a bit easier in Chapel Hill, the growing pains of navigating college constantly weighed heavy on me. Despite my unorthodox college experience, it was here I came to the realization: I love storytelling. 86 feet. An elevation where I mastered how to prepare a proper English tea and how to market to British baby boomers (can’t wait to put that one on my resume). Navigating the tube, enduring a historic heat wave, and persisting through Trader Joe’s withdrawals, although seemingly inconsequential, taught me some of the most substantive lessons. My summer in London was quite the jubilee. Over the years, I have been forced to acclimate to a range of altitudes. I discovered one constant through every peak and valley: I love sharing stories – particularly with strangers on planes. Now, I am seeking my next adventure. I’m not sure whether that will mean a job in the outdoor marketing industry or a position at a trailblazing advertising agency… or perhaps it’s booking a one-way flight to New Zealand. but one thing is for certain: the more connections I make with others, the clearer that adventure becomes.

Experience

1. Snowboard Instructor

   Vail Resorts

   Dec 2024 — Present · Breckenridge, CO, US

Education

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Bachelor of Arts - BA

  2019 — 2023

• Cox Mill High School

  High School Diploma

  2015 — 2019