What A Scholar Support Analyst At San Diego State University Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Higher Education Industry
Katia, a Scholar Support Analyst, wishes someone had advised "ask[ing] questions, a lot of questions and ask[ing] for help," emphasizing the importance of seeking support to manage the inherent anxieties of a constantly evolving work environment characterized by "problems with the community," staffing fluctuations, and shifting projects. The initial fear, however, is a sign of investment in the work, and managing that fear effectively is key to preventing burnout.
Stress Management, Overcoming Challenges, Resilience, Communication, Asking for Help
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. It's okay to ask questions and ask for help.
2. Change and uncertainty are common in this role, so managing emotions is key.
3. Fear and concern can indicate investment and care in your work, not necessarily a lack of skill or ability.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
I wish people had told me to ask questions, a lot of questions, and to ask for help. It's okay to be fearful of everything happening in front of you.
A lot of things change, and sometimes projects stop and go. There are problems within the community and in the offices. We might be short-staffed or have too many people.
These constant changes can create a lot of fear. I sit with my fear, which leads to burnout because I'm managing my emotions while still doing my job.
If someone had simply told me, "Relax, it's okay to be afraid, ask questions, ask for help," I probably wouldn't have stressed out and lost so much sleep over the last six years.
Don't be afraid. On the flip side, someone telling me that my fear means I care, I want to do a good job, and I'm invested in what I'm doing would have been helpful. It would be good if someone could tell me, "Relax, it's okay, just ask for help. Ask for clarification, and you'll be okay."