What was your major at CI? What was the month and year of your graduation?:
My Majors at CI were Spanish and Communication with an emphasis in Business and Nonprofit. I also completed a minor in Global Studies. I graduated May of 2015.
What is your job title and the name of the company where you are currently employed?:
My job title is Financial Aid Assistant I at Fresno City College.
What particular skills or talents are most essential to be effective in your job?:
I am Bilingual and I have worked in the Enrollment Office as a Student Assistant, I was familiar with specific forms that are needed for Financial Aid, and I am knowledgeable on educational laws from previous positions I held on campus.
Why did this type of work interest you, and how did you get started?:
I worked in the Enrollment Office at CI as an SA and I really enjoyed the environment and the type of help that was offered to students. Higher Education has always caught my attention, I believe it is important to become educated, financial aid is sometimes the only way students can take that route and I enjoy letting people know of their options.
How well did your college experience prepare you for this job?:
I got direct experience by working on campus, I was able to use all the resources available, the professors and staff members I approached were extremely positive and eager to help me in anything I needed.
Did you utilize Career Development Services (CDS) during your time at CI? If so, please describe how engaging in programs and services (e.g., Career & Internship Fair, CI Connection Luncheon, Drop-In Career Counseling) offered through CDS contributed to your career development:
I visited the CDS center a few times throughout my undergraduate career, I only participated in the Drop In Career Counseling, however I wish I would have participated in more things. The staff members helped me build up my resume various times and when I went in to let them know I had a final interview they did not go easy on me. Dr. Carpenter was available to help that day and she made sure I was prepared for anything and everything. So much so my mock interview with Dr. Carpenter made my actual interview seem super easy and non-stressful at all. I was much more confident during the actual interview.
Do you have any advice (job hunting or otherwise) for CI students?:
Visit the CDS Center! Take advantage of the resources available to you have them look at your resume and cover letter, ask lots of questions to the staff there, they know what they are talking about! Attend a Mock Interview before your actual interview, and always thank your interviewer for their time!