College Experiences That Helped an Automation Engineering Manager at Walmart Succeed
Alexander's journey highlights the importance of proactive engagement with professors during college, stating "they're there to help you," especially in the later years. This active networking, combined with identifying passions like GIS, significantly aided in career exploration and ultimately led to success in automation engineering at Walmart, even though a job wasn't secured immediately after graduation.
Networking, Career Development, Overcoming Challenges, Communication, Practical
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alexander Claiborne
Manager, Automation Engineering
Walmart
University of California, Santa Barbara
N/A
Environmental & Related Sciences
Automotive & Auto Parts, Technology
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Build relationships with professors: Actively engage with professors, attend office hours, and participate in independent study projects to gain valuable insights and career guidance.
2. Explore career fairs and networking opportunities: Leverage career fairs and networking events to connect with professionals in your field and learn about potential career paths.
3. Plan ahead and start early: Begin exploring career options and networking early in your college career (sophomore or junior year) to increase your chances of securing a job after graduation and avoid setbacks like moving back home after graduation
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
Near the end of my four years at Santa Barbara, I really started trying to connect with my professors. At first, I was shy and afraid to go to office hours or ask to do projects with them. I felt like I wasn't the smartest person there and didn't want to ask questions or seem ignorant. So, I just focused on showing up to class, taking tests, and doing what was necessary to get by.
It was towards the end that I discovered GIS, something I became passionate about. I started working with a professor to set up independent study projects. He also recommended career fairs with companies in my field. It can be intimidating approaching professors who have so much knowledge compared to you as an undergrad.
But ultimately, they are there to help you. If you encounter a professor who isn't supportive, find another one, because they are out there. Spend time with them, stay after class, and ask questions. I admit I didn't do this enough myself.
This effort did, however, guide me toward recognizing the many opportunities available in my field. It helped me start thinking about a plan after graduation. I didn't have a job when I graduated and moved back in with my parents, which was a perfectly acceptable path. I was fortunate to have that opportunity while I figured things out.
You can definitely get ahead by working with your professors and spending more time with them. I only started this in my senior year, but if you begin in your sophomore or junior year, making those connections can be very beneficial. Professors are well-connected in the field; they know other professors at universities and people they've done research with.
I know many biology and chemistry students who had professors with colleagues working on different projects and in various master's programs, which helped them get their foot in the door. There are many opportunities, you just need to be courageous. Try to make connections and start developing an idea of where you want to go.
This process might not reveal your exact path, but it will get your gears turning. It will make you think about what else is out there and what could potentially be a career for you.