What I do: Coordinator of Parish Catechesis, St. Therese Parish
How I got my job: Networking is key! I strategically chose people who knew me well and were well connected in the dioceses to be references for me. Additionally, my experience at the Cathedral Center where I did my internship was extremely helpful. Lastly, using my transcript has extremely helpful to show the scope of my accomplishments here at Alverno.
How I use my Alverno education: I will be coordinating and leading the parish catechetical program. I will use my knowledge of the bible and spirituality as well as my understanding of psychology to offer programs to individuals in all stages of life.
How I define career success: I feel I have obtained career success for now because I am able to work in my field of choice which normally requires a master's degree to be involved in meaningful work within the church. The parish I am working at is a great starting point in terms of size, but the work I will be doing at least for right now is exactly what I want to be doing.
Tips from the field: I feel it is important to always be considering how things connect to one another. My internship, my volunteer work in my church, and my position in Campus Ministry helped to expand my knowledge. But even things that are not religious in nature helped me to get this position. For example, a minister in the church is also going to need to know how to work with and organize volunteers, plan events, and organize a schedule. Many of the jobs I had prior to graduating helped me gain skills in these areas. So once again, it is important to make connections to show what you can do.
