Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Presidents at Admission Masters
Jenny, Admission Masters' President, revealed the unexpectedly high emotional toll of the role, describing it as "emotional in that the connections you build with the students tend to be very strong," and emphasizing the importance of self-care amidst the daily challenges of student support and organizational management. The need for a calm, strategic approach to unexpected issues like staffing changes or funding shortages, and for prioritizing mental and emotional well-being, emerged as crucial lessons learned.
Emotional Intelligence, Stress Management, Leadership, Mentorship, Client Relations
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jenny Wheatley
President
Admission Masters
UCLA (Graduated in 2010)
Johns Hopkins University Masters in Education and Certification in School Leadership
Anthropology, Sociology
Education
Consulting
Pell Grant Recipient, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. The role can be emotionally taxing due to the close relationships formed with students. Success and failures of students can be felt personally, highlighting the importance of self-care and emotional regulation.
2. The president role involves handling various organizational challenges, such as funding issues or staff changes, requiring calmness, strategic thinking, and quick problem-solving skills.
3. Maintaining mental and emotional well-being is crucial for effective performance in this role. It's important to remember that the counselor's success is not solely dependent on student outcomes, and building a strong support system is essential for navigating the emotional aspects of the job.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
I think I would want someone to tell me that this role could be more emotional. It could take a greater emotional toll on you than other jobs.
As president and counselor, part of what I do is try to develop a relationship with the student. I tend to be emotionally attached to my students, so when things happen, I really feel it as my own emotion.
Nobody would tell me that a job as a teacher, educator, or counselor is going to be emotional. People usually talk about the hardships and challenges of being in that position. The connections you build with students are usually very deep.
There can also be a high level of stress because you're helping students. You put that burden on yourself, wanting the student to be successful. When they're not, you feel the burden of "What could I have done?" That part is hard to swallow.
It would be nice if someone had told me that when feeling these levels of emotional stress or connection, I should take time to be by myself and reflect. Never feel like anything is your fault directly.
It takes two to tango; students have to put in as much effort as the counselor or educator. Don't ever feel like their failures and successes are directly related to your own. This is something that naturally happens, but I would tell my mentees and counselors about this.
As president, you have to be mindful of anything that could happen within the organization. My responsibilities as president involve the relations aspect of our staff members, including receptionists, office managers, supervisors, counselors, and consultants. You're building culture and supporting that part.
Then, other things happen, like a branch having a lack of funding or a counselor deciding not to work with you anymore. There are these tiny fires you have to put out and be prepared to calm them quickly so they don't impact the larger organization.
I wish somebody had told me these things could happen on a day-to-day basis and how to take care of yourself. Your mental and emotional well-being is the most important thing and impacts how you perform in your job. Keeping that in mind is also really important.
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