Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Curriculum Development Managers
Amy, a Senior Curriculum Development Manager at Code.org, advises undergraduates interested in education to explore volunteer opportunities like tutoring, stating, "you just need to find the thing that like drives you," as this helped spark their own passion. The importance of pursuing extracurricular activities alongside academics is emphasized, with Amy recounting a dean's advice to prioritize passions over straight A's, illustrating how seemingly unrelated activities like "art shows and music shows" ultimately shaped their career path.
Education, Volunteering, Career Exploration, Passion, Internships
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Amy Berkhoudt Woodman
Sr. Curriculum Development Manager
Code.org
Point Loma Nazarene University - 2009
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor - MA in Education Policy & Leadership
Creative Writing, Journalism
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Student Athlete, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Find volunteer opportunities to gain experience and discover your passion: Amy emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience. Volunteer programs, like tutoring underrepresented minority students, can provide valuable insights into the field and help you discover your passion for education.
2. Don't neglect extracurricular activities and personal interests: Amy shares that her college advisor encouraged her to pursue activities that brought her joy, even if it meant sacrificing perfect grades. This led to her exploring different areas, ultimately contributing to her current career. This highlights the importance of a holistic approach to career exploration.
3. Consider internships to gain practical experience: Amy suggests that college students should take advantage of the time and opportunity to explore different internships or volunteer positions. This emphasizes the value of practical experience in shaping your career path and finding what truly resonates with you.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
The teaching profession is tough because you need a certification to join. However, there are many ways to get involved in a school and help out, such as through volunteer programs.
I participated in a program called Avid, which I believe involved college students tutoring in schools. Specifically, they helped underrepresented minority students see a pathway toward college. I think that was a turning point for me.
I realized I loved working with young people and helping them envision their futures. This experience ignited a passion for education that I still have today. It's one thing you can do. Essentially, you need to find what drives you.
There are so many internship and volunteer opportunities available. You'll never have as much free time as you do in college again. Things get serious quickly. I know you're busy in college, but you also have time to try new things.
My college advisor, who was the dean of the journalism department, once looked at my report card. He noticed I was getting straight A's and told me he wasn't interested in that. He said he'd rather I get straight B's while pursuing things I cared about on the side.
As a first-generation Asian American, grades were always the main focus. However, I took his advice to heart. I started attending more art and music shows, doing travel writing, and exploring those interests.
I also began exploring computer science and coding projects on the side. It was actually these pursuits that led me to my current career. So, don't just focus on your academic courses. Think holistically about what brings you joy and how you can do more of it, as there's likely a career in it.