Be prepared, be flexible and, most importantly, stay positive. These were just a few pearls of wisdom four recent SMWC graduates handed to a group of current students. Jennifer Cassidy ’11, Chanel Reeder ’10, Erin Pugh ’11 and Emily Thiesing ’11 discussed the challenges of transitioning from student to professional during an event sponsored by the Office of Career Development on April 25, 2012.
“You’re learning life lessons,” said Thiesing, who works for Select Show Horses, Sheridan, Ind., and Taylor Turn Stables, Indianapolis, Ind. “You can’t get discouraged. You’re Woods women and you will rely on the education you got here.”
The panel answered questions and shared experiences about life after college. From surprises to successes, the women stressed the importance of:
- Managing time and money.
- Adjusting priorities.
- Paying deposits on apartments and utilities.
- Making a budget.
- Creating a professional wardrobe.
- Moving back home with parents.
- Networking with alums, students and professionals.
- Applying and interviewing for jobs is good experience, even if you aren’t offered the position.
- Working while going to graduate school.
- Creating multiple job search strategies.
- Knowing when to take a risk and when to play it safe.
Cassidy is a legal assistant for Wanzer Edwards, PC, Reeder is the director of alumnae affairs and annual giving at SMWC and Pugh is working on her MBA at Indiana State University, while serving as the staff assistant for Indiana Congressman Larry Bucshon.
The Office of Career Development provides many professional opportunities to both students and alums. For more information about how SMWC can help your career take off, visit career development online!