How Identity Has Influenced a Budget Supervisor at L.A. County Child Support Services Department's Career
Godfrey, a first-generation Filipino American Budget Supervisor, notes that cultural expectations often push individuals towards careers like "lawyer, doctor, [or] nurses," but Godfrey encourages others to "find new horizons or different paths," even if it means defying family expectations. Godfrey's secure government career demonstrates the possibility of a successful and fulfilling career outside traditional Filipino-American career paths, advising that "don't be scared to try, because... you have lots of time."
Career Exploration, Overcoming Challenges, Motivational Stories, Achieving Goals, Work-Life Balance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Godfrey Gozos
Budget Supervisor
L.A. County Child Support Services Dept.
University of California - Irvine
Master's of Public Administration at USC
Economics
Government & Public Sector
Finance
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Godfrey's secure government career reflects a common value in the Filipino American community, emphasizing stability.
2. He encourages exploring diverse career paths beyond traditional expectations, even if it means diverging from family advice.
3. Godfrey stresses the importance of having a backup plan while remaining open to trying new things, especially during younger years when there's more time to explore different options and take risks.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a first-generation Filipino American, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
For me, as a first-generation Filipino American, a common aspiration within our cultural background is to find security and success in your career with a stable job, like becoming a lawyer or a doctor. Many in the Filipino American community become nurses.
For me, I'm working in one of the most secure careers I can find, which is in government. I'm with an organization built to last, here for the long haul.
My advice to those who identify as I do, even if your family or relatives are pushing you towards a certain path, don't be afraid to explore new horizons. I know many successful people who haven't followed the standardized path for Filipino Americans in California.
Don't let what your parents say diminish your dreams. Always have a backup plan, but don't be scared to try new things. If you're graduating now, you're young and have plenty of time.
Now in my early thirties, I realize I could have taken more risks and tried more things. Ultimately, do what will make you happy.