Significant Career Lesson from a Scholar Support Analyst at San Diego State University
Katia's most significant career lesson, gained through experience in academia, is recognizing when a position no longer fosters growth and leads to feelings of being "crowded" and resentment; the key is to self-reflect and make a change, whether it's a promotion, new role, or leaving altogether, to avoid burnout and ensure work is at least somewhat enjoyable.
Career Development, Self-Reflection, Burnout, Resentment, Workplace Happiness
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Katia Garcia
Scholar Support Analyst
San Diego State University
UCLA
N/a
Philosophy
Education
Research and Development (R&D)
Pell Grant Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Recognize signs of burnout and seek changes (promotion, new position, or leaving the industry) to prevent resentment and unhappiness.
2. Regular self-reflection is crucial for career growth and satisfaction.
3. If a position no longer fulfills you, it's important to move on to avoid burnout and resentment. Find a role that you enjoy, or at least find aspects of your current position that are fulfilling
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The biggest lesson I've learned is that when you start making a lot of mistakes and feel a resentment towards your work, it's time to self-reflect. You need to consider if it's time to move on.
This could mean a promotion, a new position, or even a different department or industry. But the core lesson from working in academia and administration is that when you feel crowded in your role, you're unhappy and need to make a change.
Staying too long will lead to resentment, burnout, and a general hatred for working. It's important to check in with yourself and recognize when you've stopped growing or when a position no longer fulfills you.
Most people have to work, so you might as well enjoy it, or at least be content with your current situation. That has truly been the biggest lesson.