How Work Experience Has Influenced A Director Of People And Culture At Compass Diversified's Career
Kaajal, a Director, People & Culture, emphasizes the importance of "prioritizing work" during undergraduate studies to gain valuable experience. This includes internships and other jobs to build a resume and "jump ahead" in the career field, fulfilling experience requirements employers seek.
Work Experience, Internships, Prioritizing Work, Early Career Experience, Job Search Strategies
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Kaajal Ali
Director, People & Culture
Compass Diversified
Santiago Canyon College (Associates Degree) and Chapman University (Bachelors Degree)
M.A. Human Communication at California State University, Fullerton and currently perusing my Executive MBA at University of Michigan, Ross
Communications
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Human Resources (HR)
Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, Transfer Student, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Prioritize work experience during college, including internships and part-time jobs, to gain valuable experience and accelerate career progression.
2. Gain experience beyond just internships to meet employers' experience requirements upon graduation.
3. Working while in college provides a significant advantage in the job market after graduation by allowing you to jump ahead of peers who lack comparable work experience.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
Yes. One thing that set me up for success in my career was working. I know how fun it is to be a college student and all the cool things you get to do.
As a student, I highly recommend setting aside time and prioritizing work. Whether that's an internship or an actual job on the side, that experience is super valuable.
Once you graduate, people will be looking for you to fill roles and will require a certain amount of experience. You'll want to jump ahead and get that experience as soon as you can. So, that's what I'd recommend.