Entry-level positions for aspiring Project Directors
Entry-level opportunities in development exist for undergraduates, even without prior experience; Michael's own career trajectory, starting with "basically the same thing that I'm doing now, um, just with fewer projects and with less, uh, decision making responsibility," illustrates this, with roles like assistant project manager or admin assistant providing valuable experience before potential further education.
Project Management, Entry-Level, Real-World Examples, Career Development, Communication
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. Entry-level positions exist in the field, even without prior experience.
2. Opportunities often start in support roles like assistant project manager or admin assistant, allowing for exposure to the field.
3. Further education, such as a master's degree, can enhance career prospects and provide additional expertise and connections within the field
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
Every development firm is different. Some hire people right out of undergrad, while others don't. However, I think there are many opportunities for people who are passionate and interested in learning about the field.
I started my job working in affordable housing development with virtually no experience. I learned quickly, and I was doing essentially the same thing I do now, just with fewer projects and less decision-making responsibility. I was still tracking tasks, participating in phone calls with architects, general contractors, and banks, and taking notes. Now, I lead the calls.
There are definitely opportunities. I think it's common for people to work for a few years in a support role at a development firm, either as an assistant project manager or an administrative assistant, to get some exposure. Then, it's common for people to pursue master's degrees or other higher education to help them make connections and gain additional expertise. But there are opportunities, definitely opportunities for undergrads.
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