What A Product Manager At Education Non-Profit Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Education Industry
Ashley, a product manager at an education non-profit, advises aspiring professionals to carefully consider the reduced daily student interaction inherent in roles outside the classroom, stating, "being in front of students...fuels your soul". A successful transition requires prioritizing other aspects of the work and accepting a shift away from the daily joys of teaching.
Career Exploration, Career Development, Project Management, Communication, Workplace Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ashley Michelson
Product Manager
Education Non-Profit
University of Southern California 2012
Loyola Marymount University, Urban Education
Business Management & Admin
Education
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Video Highlights
1. Stepping away from the classroom means less daily interaction with students.
2. Prioritize what you value most: daily student interaction or other aspects of the work.
3. A shift in career focus requires accepting less daily contact with students and prioritizing other aspects of the job.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
I think I went into this industry pretty clear-headed. If I were to tell someone else entering this industry through my path, I'd advise them to be clear on whether being in front of students every day fuels your soul.
When you step away from the classroom, you'll have much less day-to-day contact with students. The joy of teaching is interacting with them daily and seeing them grow and learn.
You really have to decide if you're willing to make that shift in your career and prioritize other things. If your answer is yes, that you're willing to step away from the classroom and enter this other field, then I think you'll see a lot of growth and feel a lot of satisfaction in your work.
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