What I do: I am the Program Manager for College Readiness 21 in Southeast Wisconsin, a pre-college program administered by the Wisconsin Foundation for Independent Colleges. I run a pre-college in Racine/Kenosha counties for first-generation and low-income students who desire the tools and resources to get into college.
How I got my job: Given that I did not finish Alverno in an average time span…about 7 years with breaks in-between, I had a few full-time jobs that gave me some great knowledge.
At Alverno I founded the Dance Team and coordinated Spirit Club for almost two years, which gave me knowledge in event planning and working with students.
At VISIT Milwaukee (previously Greater Milwaukee Convention & Visitors Bureau) I was able to develop additional skills on working in the meeting/event planning industry as well as to enhance my administrative skills.
Those two jobs were instrumental in getting me involved in the type of work that I do now. I also was accepted into the Minority Undergraduate Fellowship Program through NASPA for two years that allowed me to gain knowledge in working in higher education. This happened during my undergraduate studies.
Should you use a portfolio? Yes! The portfolio really, really helps in almost any job . . . it worked wonders when applying for jobs. I never had an internship, so I was very careful to save absolutely everything…even things like coaching volleyball were included . . . and these items served as a reminder of my accomplishments during an interview. Most interviewers were quite impressed I even had a portfolio to show.
How I use my Alverno education: I am such an analytical thinker now, it sometimes drives me nuts … probably others too. I need all the facts before I can go further with a project. My speaking abilities are excellent (and comfortable) when it comes to things I’m knowledgeable about. I also feel comfortable with my writing abilities and even have been asked by my Director to help write some important documents.
How I define career success: There have been times when I thought I should be making more money or have a higher position at this point, but that is really just a “want.” I am incredibly successful and truly thank Alverno for that feeling. I have the ability in my job to get paid decently for what I do, to work from home and to be with my daughter as needed. I know that I have the capabilities to reach a lot more in the future because of my foundation achieved through hard work and the hard work (and kindness) of instructors at Alverno.
Tips from the field: The Career Center was my support the entire time attending Alverno. I was in the Career Lab searching out part-time jobs, asking Debra for constant help on my resume and anything else you can think of. I was always praised on my resume from potential employers because of it. I was that student that probably “over joined” things sometimes because I wanted to be a part of everything that would help me reach the goal of working in higher education. I suggest everyone joins a national or local association or even an on-campus activity in order to network, gain knowledge and open the network of possibilities.
