College Experiences That Helped a Project Director at PATH Ventures Succeed
Michael's undergraduate experience significantly shaped their career; mastering Microsoft Excel, as they put it, "made my job so much easier," while consistent volunteering fostered a "passion for [their] community" and a deeper understanding of social responsibility, ultimately influencing their career path.
Data Analysis, Community Engagement, Microsoft Excel Skills, Volunteering, Career Impact
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Michael Busse
Project Director
PATH Ventures
Loyola Marymount University, 2016
UCLA Master's of Urban and Regional Planning
Entrepreneurship
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking, Real Estate
Real Estate
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Developed strong Excel skills.
2. Volunteered regularly in the community.
3. Combined academic learning with practical experience and community engagement.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
I will name two things that I did in undergrad that I think really helped me. The first is that I learned Excel. I got really good at using Microsoft Excel.
I took a whole semester-long class that was just about all of the different functionalities Excel has, how to write formulas, and how to make magic out of an Excel workbook. That has really stayed with me and has made my job so much easier.
I'm using Excel every day for things you would not even imagine. A lot of people who work in my industry take much more time because I developed that expertise early.
The second thing that I did in undergrad that has had a huge impact on my career is volunteering. I volunteered at a shelter for women and children displaced by domestic violence, and I volunteered at a food pantry.
I think that gave me some passion for my community and showed me that I can have an impact on those around me. It also showed me that we all have a responsibility to take care of our communities.
It doesn't just have to be an extracurricular; it can be a career. I don't think I would have understood that unless I really sought out volunteer opportunities while I was still an undergrad.
Volunteering is also an awesome way to learn about your community and make friends with similar values. It enhanced my undergrad experience and impacted my career.
I definitely think that everybody should find a regular spot to volunteer. I was volunteering at the two places I mentioned every week. I went to the shelter every Wednesday and worked with the kids there. I woke up every Saturday morning to go to the food pantry.
So I had a routine and friends that I went with. I know my community a lot better because of it.
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