Significant Career Lesson From a Professional Development Manager at University of San Diego
Konnor learned the importance of seizing every opportunity, especially as a student. Reflecting on their undergraduate experience, they realized that taking advantage of resources like career fairs and alumni networks can provide crucial direction and exploration, leading to a more focused career path, stating that it is important to "get involved and to take advantage."
Opportunity, Career Guidance, Student Resources, Networking, Exploration
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Konnor McMillen
Professional Development Manager
University of San Diego
San Diego State University
University of California- Santa Barbara
Psychology
Education
Education
Honors Student, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Take advantage of every opportunity, especially as a student, including events, programming, career fairs, and alumni networks.
2. Getting involved early provides direction and clarity, allowing for exploration and a better understanding of career goals.
3. Don't be afraid to take the leap and seek help; people generally want to assist young professionals in their career journeys.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The one lesson I would say I've taken away from my career is to take advantage of every opportunity you have. This is especially true as a student, within your undergrad or even in your grad program.
There are so many events or programming catered towards helping you get into the career you want. Whether that's directly on campus, career fairs, or even tapping into the alumni network, you have so many tools that you have access to. I highly recommend taking advantage of them.
For me, I learned this a little too late. Looking back at my bachelor's program, going through a four-year psychology degree without necessarily having direction, I was a little bit behind. I know that I have friends who took advantage of those things, got involved, and were able to really lean into those experiences.
They came out with much more direction in their life and knew what they wanted to do because they had already done that exploration piece. So, I just think the lesson is to get involved and to take advantage. There is a lot of stuff out there for students and for young professionals. People generally want to help. Not being afraid to take that leap will really help your career.