What was your major at CI? What was the month and year of your graduation?:
My major was in Business Administration and I graduated December of 2015.
What is your job title and the name of the company where you are currently employed?:
Procurement Coordinator at Meissner Filtration Products
What particular skills or talents are most essential to be effective in your job?:
- Multi-tasking
- Detail oriented
- Organized
- Always be prepared going into a meeting
Why did this type of work interest you, and how did you get started?:
I have always been interested in how each product comes together from raw material to end user. When I started taking upper division business classes at CSUCI, I stated to realize how dynamic each supply chain can be.
Meeting the HR Manager of Meissner at the Career Fair was a culmination of many things (it wasn’t that easy). I attended all of the MVS Speaker sessions to network with local business leaders in the community, instead I met Tania Garcia who manages the mentorship program. This lead to an introduction to the CEO at Meissner which gave me the connection to the HR manager.
How well did your college experience prepare you for this job?:
With my current position, accounting has been extremely useful as it is the backbone to the financial organization of all companies. Also, in most of my courses at CSUCI I participated in many presentations throughout my college experience which has helped me professionally.
Did you complete an internship while at CI? If so, what was your position? How did the internship help you in your career development?
Yes, I had multiple internships during college which consisted PR and Real Estate Operations. As all of these positions encompass a sector of business, I found that I disliked both. This aided me in my career development because I found out two sectors that I did not want to be in which brought me to a sector that I am passionate about.
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:
Yes, I attended various networking events which aided in my ability to approach another professional (which is surprisingly difficult), your resume services, and also I arranged many meetings at the Career and Internship Fair. This lead to the position that I have now.
Did you go to graduate school? If so, what program and university did you attend?
I did not go to graduate school but I plan to enroll in the near future for a Masters in Supply Chain and / or Industrial Engineering. I am currently in a certification course for Supply Chain.
Do you have any advice (job hunting or otherwise) for CI students?:
I would suggest to start your network as soon as possible because when you are looking for a job, your network becomes very helpful. Other than that, always be persistent and plan ahead.
Would you be willing to connect with current CI students who have questions for you on LinkedIn? If so, please include your LinkedIn url.