We asked Alumni to share what they would do differently regarding their career management if given the opportunity to do it over.
Here is what they shared:
- Start Your Career Path Early
- Utilize University Career Services
- Become Active in Clubs and Professional Groups
- Expand Relationships and Networking Reach
- Embrace Early Career Mistakes
Start Your Career Path Early
My advice would be to start sooner. So, if you want to run a business one day (like me), start creating businesses. If you want to be a CFO, start working or interning somewhere that exposes you to what a CFO has to do. If you want to work in data analytics, get your hands on data and start helping organizations solve problems. You will be 5-10 years ahead of your peers if you start while you’re a student.
Eric Mulvin, B.S. Marketing 08, CEO, Pac Biz Outsourcing
Utilize University Career Services
Looking back on my time as a student, one thing I would have done differently in managing my career is to have engaged more actively with the university’s career services, and especially the alumni network. These resources are invaluable for students looking to enter the workforce, yet many, including myself at the time, underutilize them.
Working as an academic now, I can truly see just how valuable career services at universities can be as they provide a wealth of resources, including resume critiques, mock interviews, career counseling, and job search strategy assistance, all designed to help students succeed professionally.
I also believe that networking with alumni is something not enough students consider. This is a real missed opportunity, as effective relationships with alumni can open doors to opportunities and insights that are not accessible through traditional job search methods. Alumni are also generally eager to help their fellow graduates and can provide mentorship, advice on navigating job markets, and introductions to potential employers.
If I could advise current ASU students, it would be to take full advantage of these resources from the beginning of their university careers. Attend career fairs, participate in networking events, and do not hesitate to reach out to alumni in fields you are interested in. Start early and be proactive in building your professional network and skills portfolio. Your future self will thank you for the effort you put in during your university years.
Dr. Mark Farrell (FIA), Fulbright Scholar for the School of Mathematical and Statistical Science ‘17, Founder, CEO, Associate Professor & Actuary, ProActuary Jobs
Become Active in Clubs and Professional Groups
Had I known then what I know now, the thing I would have done differently would have been to become more active in groups, clubs, and in making connections with other students and staff at ASU. Although my ASU experience was great and I made valuable connections in life, I could have done more. The connections I made served well in the friendships, mentors, and experiences that helped me navigate the career for which I received my degree. However, as my career has changed and I’m now firmly entrenched in the business world, I recognize the advantages I have from my network. Even more, I recognize the advantage of having a solid network in which those individuals have their own networks.
In the long run, the connectivity really does matter, so take advantage of your opportunities to build your network by making yourself a valuable connection for others.
David Moxley, B.A. Education, VCMA – Advisory Real Estate Manager, BDO
Expand Relationships and Networking Reach
While getting involved with student clubs, organizations, and internships is extremely beneficial, looking back, I would have tried to expand my relationships, reach, and network even more. Whether it’s asking for introductions to business and thought leaders or asking others whom I should meet, the key to growing your network is building deep and authentic relationships with experts and people across various industries. These relationships can continue to grow and will always be there for future introductions, motivation, guidance, feedback, and support.
Ash Hachmeister, B.S. Marketing ‘00, CEO, beni.fit
Embrace Early Career Mistakes
There’s never a better time to make mistakes than early in your career. People aren’t going to reprimand you for a mistake; they’ll use it as an opportunity to teach you something. So, get all the mistakes you can out early in your career.
Don’t be afraid to fall, make mistakes, fail, and lose your job. Take those risks while you’re younger because you won’t have that opportunity later in your career.
Rani Sweis, B.S. Marketing ‘09, Chief Creative, Attic Salt
Featured creates community-driven content featuring expert insights. Sign up at featured.com to answer questions and get published.
