2016 NASPA Region IV, Rise Above: Navigating the Job Search Process

Term

Spring 2016

Description

The job search, whether one will be a new professional or are considering next steps in one's career, can be a sometimes overwhelming, yet clarifying, process. The NASPA Region IV Drive-In Conference gave me the opportunity to network with colleagues and gain new insights from experienced professionals on a variety of next steps.

8-8:45am: Check in and Resume/Mock Interview Sign Up

9-9:50am: Welcome and Keynote

10-10:50am: Concurrent Session 1

11-11:50am: Concurrent Session 2

12-1:30pm: Lunch & Network

1:40-2:30pm: Concurrent Session 3

2:40-3:30pm: Concurrent Sessions 4

3:40-4pm: Closing and Evaluation

4:30-6pm: Social Networking at Oggi's

Learning Outcomes

1. SWiBAT apply the advice given to me during my resume review to build a stronger resume

2. SWiBAT network with student affairs professionals to gain their insight into the profession

Assessment Rubric

Evidence

Reflection

The NASPA one-day drive-in conference is unique in that it brings together new-entry and graduate colleagues from across Southern California. All the folks attended have one thing in common - the job search. I attended the conference with the main intention of getting my resume reviewed from a professional already in the field of higher education. Perhaps their advice can propell my individuality to the top of the list in seeking professional roles. In actuality, I learned quite a bit from the sessions provided during this conference, especially when job searching. For example, I attended a workshop for folks looking to further their career in the community college, the difference between a PhD and EdD route, and what negotiation skills will I need to market "my brand". All of which will be important moving forward.

During the resume review, the advisor commended my layout and design. She mentioned that it she would second glance my resume because of it's attractiveness. However, there were few mistakes that she mentioned that, if corrected, will make for a strong resume. We had a very meaningful conversation regarding how she would look at resumes and provide awesome tips to reflect on when updating my resume. Overall, I gave myself a comptetent for this learning outcome for the fact that I obtained and retained pertinent information for this review session.

Networking, on the otherhand, proved to be more of a challenge. I thought that a smaller conference would allow me to connect with more folks in the field, especially when everyone was there with similar interests and outcomes. I wouldn't say that I was able to connect with new folks and made meaningful conversations with them. However, I was able to build on the connections I had and strengthen those relationships. Moving forward, I have to allow myself to be uncomforatble and initiate those conversations. With that, I gave myself a basic due to my inability to take advantage of this one day conference.

Overall, the conference was a great opportunity in which some opportunitites were taken advantaged of while others weren't. I would say that I feel a bit more confident moving forward with applying for positions. I know that I must overcome some more obstacles to really dive into the world of student affairs.

#education #personaldevelopment