After I Graduate, What Next?

My Early Career Goals

Even though graduation for me is still over two years away, I know from experience that these two years are going to go by quick. I have to pinch myself sometimes to believe that I already have two years of college under my belt. One thing I want to pursue really hard is my passion for sports. Therefore, I would really like to work in a field that is sports related. I have heard from so many people that the closer that you work to your passion, the more rewarding your career is. I also think that if your passionate about your work, it really becomes less work, and more about doing what you really want to do. In looking at the many potential jobs that could relate to sports I see myself fitting in best in a sales role. I feel that verbal communication is one of my main strengths. In sales verbal communication is a major key to success. I also have always felt I do a good job of getting along with people from various backgrounds. That is another thing that would be important in a sales position because every customer is different. If I were to look in a crystal ball, I see myself working in sales or promotions for a sports team, or a travel sports facility. I also love to travel so if I got to travel with my job that would probably also be a plus, especially before I have a family of my own. I see myself being able to contribute on many levels of an organization. As I said I do feel that sales would be a great natural role for me, however I also have an analytical side. I did really well, and really enjoyed my business statistics class, as well as my business analytics class. What I learned in these classes I feel will help me to contribute deeper within an organization, or maybe I could guide others, that are not so analytical. Lastly, I would like to be on a path towards some type of management role. I found my Introduction to Management class this semester to be very interesting. I especially think that figuring out what motivates others would be very rewarding. I also have always had the type of personality, especially in my sports, to want to help others. I feel that is a lot of what management is. Helping others achieve their goals which in turn helps the organization. I realize the week after I walk across that stage, life happens, and starts quick, but I am going to strive to be in a position to follow my passion as best as possible.

Personal Goals

I think it is short sighted to only walk away from college with a degree and career goals. I also think that is important to evaluate in life what is really important to me outside of work. One of those things is family. I am blessed to have a close-knit family, that only includes nine people (and this includes aunts, uncles, first cousins, grandparents and my parents). One thing I want to do better about is spending time with them. They have all given me so much, I want to make sure that after college I spend time with them whenever possible. Another goal I have is to keep improving in golf. I am fortunate to play a sport pretty well, that I can play for a lifetime, but I want to continue to strive to get better. I have came close a couple times to my home course club championship, and one of these years I want my name on that plaque. My last goal is to be better at giving back. Where I see me doing this is helping a sports team, or maybe teaching golf lessons for really cheap or for free to kids just starting out. I want to be active in my community, when possible, and would love to be seen as a leader both in my work and in my personal life. Lastly, I want to travel the world.

My Dad's Favorite Quote,

The following is my dad's favorite quote, this is something I want to always have in mind. I have even caught myself, making plans, when sometimes what I should be doing is just embracing the moment.