How Identity Has Influenced A Vice President, Education And Social Impact At Credit Unions' Career
Navigating a career as an adult learner meant recognizing that prior experiences, like being a stay-at-home parent, were not deficits but valuable assets, leading to qualifications in "juggling duties" and creative problem-solving. Amanda's journey proves that through hard work and self-belief, one can quickly advance beyond initial roles, leveraging the wisdom gained from life experiences to achieve significant career growth, such as becoming a vice president in a short time.
Adult Learning, Career Transition, Resume Building, Skills Recognition, Career Advancement
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Amanda Garcia-Merz
Vice President, Education & Social Impact
California Credit Union League, Nevada's Credit Unions and the Utah Credit Union Association
Sacramento State
English, Writing & Education
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Education
Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Leveraging non-traditional experience: Skills gained as a stay-at-home parent (juggling duties, creative problem-solving) can be valuable assets in the workplace and should be highlighted to employers.
2. Reframing career gaps: Returning to the workforce after a break doesn't have to be a deficit. Prior experience brings wisdom and a different perspective that can be highly valuable.
3. Proactive career growth: Don't settle for the initial job. Actively seek opportunities to contribute and grow within the organization to accelerate career trajectory.
Transcript
As an adult learner, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
Being an adult learner, a 42-year-old returning student in college, was an interesting place to be. It helped set me up to navigate the world of career and resume building.
It's hard to solidify the work you've done as a stay-at-home parent and turn that into an asset on your resume. However, many employers, if they take the time to ask about your qualifications, would learn that you are the best at juggling duties.
You're really good at being creative and finding solutions, where someone fresh out of college might not have that same level of knowledge. I had to learn that what I had done was not a deficit, but definitely a plus.
I came to the table with years of experience, not necessarily just in the job I was applying for, but in different ways. I felt more qualified; I just needed the guts and self-belief that it was true.
This positively impacted my career with wisdom and age. I also recognized it would take hard work to not always be seen as the person returning to a career. Becoming a vice president in a short period of time proves it can be done.
Don't just stay in the initial job you received. Start looking immediately for how you can be an asset and ensure your career growth has a good trajectory, especially with the limited time left in my career.