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Total Points: 26
Here are some Professional and Career Readiness Activities I have done during my time at Western Washington University.
I attended a guest speaker session by Kent Lewis, who shared insights on strengthening personal branding, professionalism, and his career journey. Kent Lewis' talk was enlightening, offering practical advice on enhancing personal brand and professionalism. Learning from his career path provided valuable insights into navigating the professional world. I gained a better understanding of the importance of personal branding and professionalism in career advancement, and I feel inspired to apply these strategies to my own professional journey.
I attended an event hosted by CBE's Dead Parrot Society and the Student Success Center titled "Improv for Professional Settings," where I learned how to enhance my improv skills to excel in professional environments, careers, and business.
Participating in "Improv for Professional Settings" was a unique, enjoyable, but uncomfortable way to develop crucial skills for success in the professional world. The interactive nature of the workshop allowed me to practice thinking on my feet, effective communication, and teamwork in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Overall, this event provided me with valuable tools and techniques that I can apply to various professional situations, making me feel more confident and prepared for future endeavors.
From 2022-2024, I was an active member of the Student Marketing Association (SMA) at WWU, a student-run organization focused on promoting an understanding of marketing.
Being a part of SMA provided me with numerous opportunities for professional development. I participated in guest speaker sessions and networking events, all of which expanded my knowledge of current marketing trends and practices. I particularly enjoyed the educational experiences that allowed me to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. This involvement helped me build valuable relationships with marketing professionals and peers, enhancing my networking skills and industry insights. The practical experience and connections I gained through SMA have been instrumental in my career readiness, and I plan to leverage these skills and relationships as I pursue a career in marketing.
I work at the front desk of Bellingham Training and Tennis Club, managing inquiries, scheduling appointments, and assisting members with their needs.
Working at the front desk of the Bellingham Training and Tennis Club is a rewarding experience that hones my customer service and organizational skills. Interacting with members daily provides valuable insight into effective communication and problem-solving. This role has taught me the importance of professionalism and adaptability in a fast-paced environment, skills I will carry forward in my future professional life.
I attended a career fair hosted by the WWU Career Services Center, where I had the opportunity to connect with numerous companies across various industries about job opportunities.
Attending the career fair was an invaluable experience that allowed me to explore a wide range of career paths and interact directly with potential employers. Engaging in conversations with representatives from different companies sharpened my networking and communication skills while providing insight into various industries and job roles. The event reinforced the importance of proactive career exploration and networking, and I felt more confident and prepared to pursue future job opportunities as a result.
Over the past year, I've interned at Stones Throw Brewery, where I've honed my marketing and event coordination skills. Through this experience, I've had the opportunity to network with professionals in the community and expand my connections. Now, I'm confident in my ability to plan and execute events, as well as manage digital marketing strategies including social media and email campaigns.
My internship at Stones Throw Brewery has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. From assisting in event planning to executing marketing campaigns, every task has contributed to my professional growth. Building relationships with industry professionals has been invaluable, providing me with mentorship and opening doors to future opportunities. As I move forward, I'm grateful for the skills and connections I've gained, ready to take on new challenges in the marketing and events sphere.
I took BUS 310 during the winter of 2023. The course provided a thorough exploration of career options tailored to individual student interests, offering both general career-related information and customized feedback. Additionally, professional workshops covering topics like professionalism, networking, interviewing, and etiquette laid a solid foundation for each student's pursuit of their career aspirations and goals.
Taking BUS 310 was a rewarding experience that equipped me with valuable tools and knowledge to navigate the professional world. The personalized approach to exploring career options helped me align my interests with potential career paths, while the workshops enhanced my skills for success. Learning about professionalism, networking, and interviewing boosted my confidence and prepared me to engage effectively in the professional arena. As I continue my journey, I am grateful for the insights gained in this course.
In December 2023, I participated in the Career Launch and Holiday Mixer events at WWU, which offered opportunities to connect with alumni and gain career insights.
The Career Launch allowed me to engage with established alumni in small group rotations, where I learned valuable networking strategies, effective resume tips, and interview techniques. I appreciated the chance to hear firsthand experiences and advice, which helped me understand how to leave a lasting impression in professional settings. Additionally, the Holiday Mixer provided a relaxed environment to bond with fellow students, alumni, and faculty, creating meaningful memories and expanding my network. These events significantly enhanced my career readiness by providing real-world insights and fostering connections that may lead to future opportunities, such as internships or mentorships. Moving forward, I'll apply these experiences to build stronger professional relationships and advance my career.
In 2022, I created and actively maintained a LinkedIn account to enhance my professional online presence.
Maintaining a LinkedIn account has been crucial for my career development. It allowed me to connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and stay updated on current trends and opportunities in my field. I enjoyed the ability to showcase my achievements, skills, and experiences, which helped me build a comprehensive professional profile. This platform provided me with valuable networking opportunities and access to potential job openings, which I might not have found otherwise. Utilizing LinkedIn has improved my digital networking skills and will continue to be a key tool in my professional growth and job search efforts.
In Spring 2024, I attended a networking skills session with special guest Carmell Emory, focused on mastering LinkedIn and in-person networking.
This session enhanced my networking abilities, providing invaluable tips and strategies for both online and face-to-face interactions. I particularly appreciated Carmell Emory's insights on optimizing my LinkedIn profile to make meaningful connections and effectively present myself. The session also covered practical advice for in-person networking, including how to approach and engage with professionals confidently. Moving forward, I will apply these networking techniques to expand my professional network and seize new opportunities.
In May 2024, I attended a session with Nikki Schmidt from Enterprise on interview tips, focusing on preparation, video interviewing, making a good impression, and closing the interview effectively.
This session enhanced my interview preparation skills by emphasizing thorough research on the company and alignment of personal values with the organization's mission. I found the advice on self-reflection and crafting accomplishment statements particularly helpful, as it encouraged me to frame my experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Additionally, the tips on video interviewing, such as testing technology and maintaining a professional background, were practical and immediately applicable. This activity boosted my confidence in presenting myself effectively and left me well-equipped to handle both virtual and in-person interviews. Moving forward, I'll leverage these skills to ensure I make a strong impression and communicate my value to potential employers.
Taking Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) was an opportunity for us to collaborate on real client projects while discovering and embracing their authentic creative voices. Under the guidance of former students turned product managers, I crafted tailored content for specific target audiences, exploring the intricacies of creative strategy and its application in comprehensive IMC plans.
Engaging in the IMC course was a transformative experience that empowered me to take ownership of my creative abilities and professional identity. Collaborating with peers to develop content for real clients challenged me to think strategically and creatively, while simultaneously using my teamwork skills. Additionally, the emphasis on personal branding equipped me with the tools to showcase my skills and accomplishments effectively to potential employers. This course not only expanded my knowledge of marketing communications but also provided me with tangible assets and experiences to propel my career forward with confidence.
After taking IMC in the winter, I got nominated by Dan Purdy to take it again and become a product manager of a team. AIMC has been a transformative journey, providing me with invaluable experience in content creation, brand development, and product management. Working within a specialized team, I've not only enhanced my skills in digital and physical content creation but also learned the importance of collaboration and teamwork in a professional setting. The freedom to choose projects has allowed me to explore my interests and strengths while gaining practical experience applicable to my future career. This class has truly empowered me to unleash my creativity and leadership skills and was by far the most rewarding class I took at WWU.
I attended a few Professional Women’s Association (PWA) meetings focused on women's leadership development and career support. These sessions welcomed participants from all majors and aimed to enhance job market competitiveness.
Attending PWA meetings was beneficial for my professional growth. I appreciated the inclusive environment and the opportunity to network with diverse individuals. The workshops and discussions helped me improve essential skills like communication and negotiation, which are vital for career success. I plan to apply these newfound skills and insights to advance my career and take on leadership roles in the future.
In May 2024, I attended the Proud Speaker Series event featuring McKinsey & Co., which explored the experiences of intersectional, trans, and non-binary colleagues.
This event deepened my understanding of intersectional identities and the importance of inclusive practices in the workplace. I appreciated the focus on real-life experiences and practical strategies for fostering inclusivity, such as using correct pronouns and creating safe spaces for dialogue. This experience helped me develop empathy and awareness, which are crucial for effective leadership and team collaboration. I gained valuable skills in recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by diverse colleagues. Moving forward, I will apply these insights to create a more inclusive and supportive environment in my professional interactions.
In May 2024, DEI Now hosted a panel exploring the current state of accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations. The discussion covered key areas such as defining DEI personally and organizationally, emphasizing that values shape inclusivity and belonging.
One major takeaway was the importance of integrating DEI as a core value rather than treating it as a separate unit. This highlighted the distinction between performative and foundational DEI practices. I learned that true DEI efforts must be embedded deeply into everyday operations to ensure meaningful and sustainable inclusion in the workplace.
All activities have been completed by myself during my time at Western Washington University. I have read the Academic Honesty Policy and can confirm that my description of these activities is from my own lived experience of them