This week, the Eagle Examiner features Ann Dunn Andracchio as its Alumni Update. Ann Dunn, class of ’10, is the oldest of three Andracchio siblings (Tripp and Brice). Voted “Best Personality” by her classmates, Ann Dunn’s charming disposition was a familiar presence here at RMA. An academically successful student, Ann Dunn was an AP Scholar and a Morehead Scholarship Nominee. She served in the Student Government Association and held positions on the Honor Council for all of her four years of high school. Leading as an example for her two younger brothers, she decided to attend UNC-Chapel Hill after graduating from RMA. After getting her degree, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in banking. To learn even more about Ann Dunn’s time at Rocky Mount Academy, and her life after, read the interview below!

1. Where did you attend college?

UNC-Chapel Hill.

2. What was your major? Why did you choose it?

Global Studies with a focus on Macroeconomics and European languages. I loved taking Econ with Mr. Stancavish, and I wanted to be able to understand global economic trends.

3. Where did your degree take you after college (career and location)?

I work in the Investment Banking division of Guggenheim Partners in New York City. Specifically, I advise retail companies on mergers and acquisitions (buying other companies, selling their own company, or combining with another company). My job is really neat because most of my clients are names that people actually recognize (i.e. Sonic, Cabela’s, and Belk).

4. What is your favorite part about living in New York City?

“Bored” is no longer a part of my vocabulary.

5. Were you involved in sports, art, music, etc. while at RMA?

I was a star benchwarmer on the basketball team and had a Tony-worthy performance in the fall play, just ask Ms. Willis.

6. What do you miss most about RMA?

Leh Leh (Mrs. Lehnes) and CPat (Mrs. Patton).

7. Have you had the opportunity to study abroad?

Yes, I studied abroad in London my junior year of college. I’ve never had so much fun or grown so much as an individual in such a short period of time – I’d recommend it to anyone who asks (I’m looking at you, Gracie Byrd Tharin)!

8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Golly, I can hardly plan ten minutes ahead. I know that I’ll be in New York for at least three more years.

9. What is your favorite quote?

“You shouldn’t ever cry over anything that can’t cry over you.” –Sarah Watson

10. Is there a specific teacher that impacted you even after leaving RMA?

Even in the world of finance, knowing how to write is immensely important. If you’re going to pick up on anything in high school, learn how to write. Elizabeth Cooke, who I still consider a good friend and mentor, taught me to write; I owe a lot of what I’ve achieved academically and professionally to her.

11. What is an interesting fact about yourself?

My parents, who both graduated from RMA, met in kindergarten.

12. What is your favorite kind of music/ some of your favorite songs?

The Rolling Stones. My brothers and I love to ride around with the windows down and listen to Flashpoint, one of their live albums. My cousin, Lindy, is also usually with us, but let’s just say her knowledge of Rolling Stones lyrics is lacking.

13. What are some of your current hobbies/ interests?

I’ve become a big fan of wine. Inez Ribustello, who owns On the Square in Tarboro with her husband Stephen, has been so kind to me and has taught me a ton about wine.