Revolutionizing Career Development: A Professor’s Journey
In 2012, I embarked on a life-changing journey as a Professor of Career Development at a national university. With a background in HR and three years of blogging under my belt, I was determined to share my knowledge with students and help them avoid the mistakes I had seen new hires make time and time again.
A Wake-Up Call
As I began teaching, I was handed a textbook that was six years old. I was shocked to find that it didn’t even mention LinkedIn, a crucial social media platform for job seekers. It was clear that the curriculum was outdated, and I knew I had to take matters into my own hands.
Recreating the Course
I put the textbook aside and created my own curriculum from scratch. I developed worksheets, frameworks, and a grading system that focused on real-world job searching skills. It wasn’t easy, especially since I was pregnant and feeling unwell at the time. But I was driven by a desire to give my students the best possible chance of success.
The Results Were Transformative
My students thrived under the new curriculum, becoming experts in LinkedIn and building their professional networks. They created online portfolios and websites, and many landed their dream jobs after graduation. The feedback I received was overwhelming, with students expressing gratitude for my caring approach and dedication to their success.
A Bigger Mission
This experience changed everything for me. I realized that I wanted to make a broader impact, helping not just my students but people all over the world find career fulfillment. I left the university to focus on creating online courses and resources, determined to revolutionize the job search process.
A New Era in Career Development
My journey has taught me that career development is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about caring for individuals and helping them find their passion. I believe that every student deserves a supportive and forward-thinking professor, career center, and career counselor. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.
The Future of Career Development
My mission is to change the way we approach career development, making it more accessible, effective, and fulfilling for all. I envision a world where every individual has the tools and support they need to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. It’s a lofty goal, but I’m convinced that together, we can make it a reality.
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