Significant Career Lesson From a Health and Wellness Coach at Leading University
Jessica's most significant career lesson stemmed from a mentor's critical feedback during graduate school; this challenging experience prompted introspection, leading to a shift from traditional public education to the non-traditional Montessori system, granting a unique perspective by bridging "different silos." The experience taught Jessica to view difficult feedback, such as "poor review[s]," as opportunities for growth and redirection.
Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Career Exploration, Non-Traditional Career Paths, Motivational Stories
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jessica Elliott
Health & Wellness Coach/Extended Learning Coordinator
Leading University
California Polytechnic State University
Dominican University of California - M.S. Education / CA BLCAD teaching credential
Medical, Sciences & Related, Psychology
Coaching, Speaking & Writing, Education
Education
First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. A challenging mentor critique unexpectedly steered her away from traditional teaching and toward a more fulfilling career path in alternative education settings.
2. The experience highlighted the importance of self-reflection and identifying one's true passions and values, even when faced with negative feedback.
3. Her unique background, blending public and alternative education, provides a valuable perspective and adaptability in her current role as a Health & Wellness Coach/Extended Learning Coordinator.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
Often, the hardest things and the things that hurt the most are feedback. I'll give you a real experience.
When I was in grad school getting my teaching credential, my mentor teacher told me, "I'm not really sure you want to be a teacher, and I'm not really sure if this educational model is for you." That was difficult to hear.
At the same time, it made me think. She was spot on. I knew I wouldn't retire as a classroom teacher or stay in those four walls for 25 years, nor would I follow a specific curriculum. I knew my path would be non-traditional.
What I took from it was considering what is truly important to me. I didn't necessarily believe her, but that feedback challenged what I believed, the work I did, and why I was there. It made me wonder about my path.
Ultimately, that made me question if I wanted to continue in public education or teach in private, progressive, alternative Montessori education. I actually shifted back to Montessori, even though I had just earned a public credential.
I ended up using that public credential directly and indirectly over the years, but not in a traditional sense. I was able to see both sides, whereas many educators have blinders on. I could jump into different silos.
So, when something really hard comes your way, like a poor review, take it and see how you can learn from it and how you can move forward.