Helping Professions Career Profiles 2012-20131

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HELPING!PROFESSIONS! 201202013!
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! FLORIDA!STATE!UNIVERSITY! CAREER!CENTER!
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! By:!Leigh&Eskin!

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Career Counselors.Page 7
Assistant Career Manager..Page 9 Career Counselor.Page 11 Career Counselor.Page 13 Career Planning Specialist....Page 15 Career Counseling Business Owner....Page 17
Mental Health Counselors/ Social Workers..Page 19

Social Worker....Page 21 Therapist..Page 23 Social Work Intern.Page 25 Licensed Mental Health Counselor..Page 27 Employment (EAP) Counseling Director..Page 29
Speech Language Pathologists..Page 31

Speech Language Pathologist..Page 33 Speech Language Pathologist..Page 35 Speech Language Pathologist..Page 37 Speech Pathologist.Page 39 Speech Language Pathologist (school) .Page 41
School Counselors/ Psychologists..Page 43

School Psychologist...Page 45 Guidance Counselor...Page 47 School Psychologist...Page 49
Educators.Page 51
ESOL Teacher....Page 53 Teacher.Page 55 Clinical Instructor...Page 57 Training/ Disability Specialist....Page 59 Instructional Employee Music Teacher.Page 61 Librarian/Head of Public Service..Page 63 Elementary Education Teacher..Page 65 Studio Manager and ProfessorPage 67 Associate Professor...Page 69
Graduate Students and Others..Page 71

Graduate Student Social Psychology Ph.D. .Page 73 Graduate Student Counseling & School Psychology Ph.D. Page 75 Graduate Student Career Counseling M.S./Ed.S...Page 77
A LOOK INTO WHATS INSIDE

1). WHAT IS THIS??

Over the next 60 pages, you will see 30 different Professional Career Profiles that will provide a snapshot into peoples career. Specifically, you will gain information about the professionals day in the life, the aspects they enjoy most and least, their background information, and their suggestions to help you succeed.
2). HOW THIS BOOKLET WILL HELP YOU!

For those of you who have ever wondered:
What is it actually like to work in the field?
3). WHAT CAREER AREAS DOES THIS BOOKLET COVER?

This booklet is specifically designed to provide information on the Helping Professions, which is a profession that involves counseling, teaching, training, or assisting others. Specifically, this booklet is divided into 5 different areas: Career Counselors, Mental Health Counselors/Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists, Teachers & Trainers, and Graduate Students
What are peoples personal experiences and some of their suggestions? How do professionals enjoy their jobs?

This booklet will provide many of those answers!!
4). BE CAREFUL!
Please keep in mind that these are just a few examples from people in the field and are not representative of the entire population. Many of these Professional Career Profiles were completed by entry level workers. There are also individuals who work part time and who are in the midst of going through a career change. Add the information from these profiles to your toolbox, but do not also discount resources such as O*Net and the Occupation Outlook Handbook.
Career Counselors
7
ASSISTANT MANAGER
(CAREER MANAGEMENT/ CORPORATE RELATIONS)

Income: $41,000- $50,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Columbus, OH

A TYPICAL DAY:
I meet with MBA students and help them with all stages of career development. This includes helping them figure out what they're interested in, exploring industries and functional areas, networking, writing resumes and cover letters, interviewing, and using job search resources.
TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Co-worker Relationships 3). Variety of Tasks 4). Ability to Advance 5). Work/Life Balance
SCHEDULE OF TYPICAL WORKDAY

I typically meet with 2-3 students in person for an hour at a time to help them wherever they are in the career development process. I spend a few hours answering many emails from students helping them with online job search resources and reviewing resumes and cover letters. I spend some time monitoring the job postings on our online job board and promote new opportunities to students. The rest of the day I either meet with my colleagues (in my department and across campus) to collaborate on programs, plan workshops or other events, or monitor career-related information online to pass on to students.

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

(Scale: 0 = Not well and 10 = Very well)

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

I like having direct interaction with students and learning about their individual stories & career needs. I like my colleagues - I'm very fortunate to work in a welcoming and flexible environment and work for strong stable leaders. I also enjoy the independence of my job - I have a group of students I am solely responsible for and I can see the impact I make.
Ability To Advance Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:

I wish more students came to the office in person. However, many of my students work full-time and go to school part-time, so their schedules are crazy. I wish I had more of a supervisory role and could guide interns or other staff new to this field. I wish students would report back updating me on their job search instead of waiting for me to follow up with them. 9
WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

I love being able to help students figure out what to do with their lives and how to get there. Each student is unique and has different needs, motivations, obstacles, etc. I love being a part of this process. HAVE YOU CHANGED CAREER FIELDS? Yes, I used to be an elementary school teacher. I became bored with the curriculum content and lack of intellectual stimulation. I also did not enjoy disciplining students or handling demanding parents. As a college career services professional, I enjoy working with adults who make their own decisions (for the most part) and can talk about deeper issues related to identity and values in the workplace. EDUCATION:
EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION:
I work during the day, and rarely work nights/weekends. I have 11-20 years in full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 20-30 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours recruiting: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours event planning/marketing: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours speaking with employers or family members of clients: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours making phone calls: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy
Degree: Master of Arts in Counselor WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS? Education I see myself moving to a higher position within this Exams/Licenses: PC organization. Length of time to obtain Degree: 5-7 years SUGGESTIONS: Student Debt upon Graduation: $16,000- Tips: I recommend talking to lots of career services $30,000 in student loans professionals to find out what environment you like (college, K-12, private practice, etc.) and what would be the best fit. WOULD YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREER Things I wish I had known: I wish I had known that there AGAIN? are fewer positions in career services that specifically look Yes, I would choose career services again. I like for staff with a counseling background than I originally working in education and I see the impact I'm thought. Many positions are also open to staff with an HR, able to make. Working at a university also offers corporate, or higher Education background. a flexible schedule, learning opportunities on Helpful Courses/Organizations: I think any counseling- campus, great benefits, and wonderful related courses are helpful. I would also get involved with colleagues who are also mission-driven. professional associations in the field (in my case Ohio Career Development Association, National Career Development Association, etc.) SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 Skills to Develop: Organizational skills are key since I need to stay on top of students (what they need, where they are in the process, etc.), monitor postings, track employer needs, and plan events that run smoothly.

10
CAREER COUNSELOR
(EDUCATION)

Income: $31,000- $40,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Knoxville, TN

MY TYPICAL DAY:
My primary daily and weekly tasks include meeting with students one-on- one in hour sessions for career counseling, teaching an Exploring Majors and Careers course, doing outreach workshops and career development workshops for student organizations and classes on campus, updating career resources online and in the office, and helping with the promotion of career events through marketing and advertising outlets on campus. If I am not presenting, teaching or counseling, I spend time in my office developing workshops and planning for my class. I am also a Staff Advisor to an honors student organization, so I spend some evenings attending those meetings and events and spend time during the day communicating with officers and helping to plan.

TOP VALUES
1). Work/Life Balance 2). Co-Worker Relationships 3). Challenge/Growth 4). Variety of Tasks 5). Contribution to Society



SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY:

On a typical workday I come in at 8AM. I prepare for appointments by accessing students Strong Interest Inventory and the notes taken from the office administrator. Throughout the day, I will have anywhere from two to four individual student appointments. Two days a week I teach an Exploring Major and Career Class of about 20 students. Upon request I will lead a workshop or group interpretation of the Strong Interest Inventory, Myers Briggs Type Indicator, or career development workshops to student groups and classes. On my downtime, I prepare lectures and workshops, update career related information and facilitate marketing efforts for the office. I always take a lunch break for an hour, and am usually out of the office by 5PM unless there is a workshop Im leading. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

Ability To Advance Challenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

The desire to help individuals reach their personal and professional goals. It is what I enjoy seeing most in the world...people succeeding in their passions!
Personal interaction with students and colleges. 80% of my day is spent with communicating with students or with colleagues over projects. The variety of tasks I get to engage. I get to help with other projects, events and career fairs. Career Services is also part of the Student Life Division at the University of Tennessee, which allows for many opportunities outside of the workday. I am never bored working at a research one university! 11
MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION:
I work during the day and sometimes work nights/weekends. I have 0-2 years in full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 10-20 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours writing notes: Moderately enjoy 10-20 hours advising students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours instructing: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours event planning: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours consulting: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours administrative: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours of phone calls: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Greatly enjoy MY EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Science in Communications, Master of Science and Education Specialist in Counseling & Human Systems. Certifications/licenses: National Certified Counselor (NCC), Strong Interest Inventory Certification (GS Consultants).

I am a real outdoor person so sometimes I get bitter that I am inside all day. Thankfully I get to volunteer with Student Life doing Outdoor Pursuit Trips to compensate for this lack of nature during the week. I also dont really like dressing up in business/casual every day. I always look forward to Friday Jean Day. Some weeks I am twiddling my thumbs and looking for projects to do, and then some weeks I am slammed with student appointments and can barely keep my head above water! I wish there could be a more even keel to the workload. However, the dynamic, unpredictable nature does keep it exciting.
WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

I see myself moving to a higher position in my current organization. SUGGESTIONS: Tips: Get good mentors and make good connections with fellow classmates and colleagues while in school. Continue these relationships! They will help you improve your skills and find employment. Things I wish I had known: I am working on being more of a "self-starter." In school you are always told what to do and what is expected, you have more freedom as an employee and you have to create and accomplish your own goals. Helpful Clubs/Organizations: Get a lot of experience presenting to different types of students. Counseling Skills and even being knowledgeable of assessments is helpful. Knowing the structure of your organization is also helpful. I am still learning how the University system works even though I have been engrossed in it for six years. Skills to develop: All skills can always use some tuning. Counseling, presenting, communicating professionally...read and learn from your mentors!
Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: $31,000- $50,000 in student loans. WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Yes! I am so happy I am doing what I am doing! SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 5/5

12
CAREER COUNSELOR
(EDUCATION)

Income: $31,000- $40,000 Salary Hours: 45-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Texas

A TYPICAL DAY:
Majority of time (80%) is spent seeing students in the College of Liberal and Fine Arts for career counseling and development; 10% of time is dedicated to administrative tasks (daily notes, monthly reports, emails), and 10% of time is spent on career development workshops, staff meetings, and meetings with faculty/deans/advisors.
TOP VALUES
1). Recognition 2). Ability to Advance 3). Job Security 4). Leadership 5). Work/Life Balance


8:00-9:00AM: Administrative work. 9:00-12:00PM: Student Appointments. 12:30-1:30PM: Lunch. 2:00-4:00: Student Appointments. 4:00-5:00PM: Administrative.



Recognition Ability To Advance Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 5 10 15

What I truly enjoy most about my job are the tangible outcomes I witness from working with my students. For example, I am able to watch my students as they progress through their career development process, and feel very proud that I played a role in coaching and mentoring them. I observe my students at career fairs and get excited that I helped prep them for this big day. I see my students come into the office for an on-campus interview and become anxious to ask them, How did your interview go? I receive emails from my students on a weekly basis, where they deliver excellent news to me, such as getting a job or interview offer. I find many of these aspects of my job to be both rewarding and fulfilling. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: One of the main downsides to my position is working with students who are unmotivated or unfocused. I often work with students to increase their self-confidence and help them articulate what is important to them. Additionally, I work with many students and alumni who are unemployed and become very agitated with the job search process. I have to encourage these students to remain hopeful, and assist them in articulating the skills that they have developed that are useful in many different career paths (such as effective communication, team skills, and problem solving). 13

A practicum experience in the field during my graduate program. Also, my graduate course in Vocational Counseling fueled an interest in conducting research. As a result, I joined a research team and became involved.
EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Certifications: NCC, GCDF. Exams/Licenses: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
I work during the day, and have some night/weekend work. I have 3-5 years in full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy Length of time to obtain Degree: 5-7 years. 20-30 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly Student Debt upon Graduation: $31,000- enjoy $50,000 student loan. 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Moderately enjoy WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? 1-5 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours recruiting: Greatly enjoy Moving to a higher position within current organization. 1-5 hours event planning/marketing: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Moderately enjoy WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? 1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy Yes! This is certainly a field of work that I am 5-10 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy passionate about working in. With this in mind, I 1-5 hours speaking with employers: Moderately enjoy am taking the necessary steps (i.e., working on 1-5 hours making phone calls: Do not enjoy my doctoral degree) to hopefully gain a 1-5 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy leadership position at some point in the future. 1-5 hours Workshops/Programing efforts: Greatly enjoy SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 SUGGESTIONS: Tips: My recommendation to students is to begin the career development process early. I also want to encourage students to obtain an internship to discover their passion for the field and to find opportunities to transition into full-time employment. I also recommend finding ways to gain valuable experience in your field such as study abroad, joining major- related student organizations, volunteering, or participating in research projects. Also, attend campus career fairs! Gaining exposure to companies can be helpful in learning about potential jobs so you can evaluate your options. Helpful Organizations: National Career Development Association (NCDA) and state career development associations. Skills to develop: Presentation skills, counseling skills, and supervisory/ leadership skills.

14
CAREER PLANNING SPECIALIST

(EDUCATION)

Income: $31,000- $40,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Oxford, MS

A TYPICAL DAY:
Assist students with career planning and job search strategies through individual counseling. Administer, interpret and evaluate career assessment instruments, including the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Strong Interest Inventory, and DISCOVER. Perform mock interviews, assist with rsums, cover letters, curriculum vitas, and personal statements. Advise students about effective job search strategies, including networking and the professional use of social media. Plan, develop, and conduct programs, workshops and presentations on career- related topics to enhance students' career and educational advancement. Instruct EDHE 301: Career and Life Planning, serving approximately 30- 35 students each semester. Maintain and update the career resource library and prepare administrative and research reports. Serve as liaison to academic departments in the College of Liberal Arts and School of Journalism and New Media. Interact with student groups, faculty, staff, parents and community agencies concerning student career decisions. Analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the Career Center as it relates to the UM 2020 strategic plan.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Challenge/Growth 3). Work/Life Balance 4). Ability to Advance 5). Variety of Tasks


SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL WORKDAY

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: Student appointments every hour. Tuesday and Thursday: Student appointments every hour, except for 2 hours of instructing a course. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: The student interaction is very rewarding. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: With so many appointments on my calendar, it is difficult to get to e-mails or administrative responsibilities.

I work during the day, with some night/weekend work. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. 15
My day is broken into the following activities: WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy The opportunity to engage with students and 20-30 hours writing client notes: Greatly enjoy help them to discover their passion / best selves. 30-40 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly I also was excited about the variety of tasks, and enjoy the opportunity to teach students within a 10-20 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy classroom environment. 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours event planning/marketing: Greatly enjoy WOULD I CHOOSE THIS CAREER AGAIN? 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy Yes. I love what I do. I would perhaps have 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy decided to study Educational Psychology 10-20 hours self education: Greatly enjoy instead, but I'd still have done the same thing 1-5 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy (just likely gotten paid more for it). 1-5 hours making phone calls: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy EDUCATION: Degree: M.Ed. in Counselor Education WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? and Ph.D. in Higher Education Student I see myself moving to a higher position in another Personnel. organization. Exams/Licenses: Licensed Professional Counselor. SUGGESTIONS: Length of time to obtain Degrees: 11-14 years. Tips: Make sure that you use your graduate education to get Student Debt upon Graduation: $6,000- as many diverse types of experiences as you can. Work with $15,000 in student loans. different populations and in different settings, so that you will know what you enjoy / don't enjoy. You'll also be padding your resume with very valuable experiences. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 Things I wish I had known: Sadly, the salary in this field is not very high. Even with a PhD your earning potential is low when you start out. It increases in time, but it is still much lower than similar fields (like Psychology). Helpful Clubs/Organizations: Career Development; College Student Development; Career Life Planning; College Teaching; and Student Affairs Administration. Skills to develop: Counseling skills, teaching skills, administrative skills. Ability to engage with diverse individuals. The ability to be genuine and to build rapport with others easily.
16
BUSINESS OWNER:
CAREER COUNSELOR

INCOME: SALARY HOURS: 21- 30 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 11-20 YEARS

MY TYPICAL DAY:
Everyday is different. Some days I meet with career clients in private sessions. Sometimes I meet with marketing people or write articles or creating a new career program. Much of my work is creative and enjoyable. As a small business owner I can define my priorities and schedule flexible hours.

TOP VALUES

Variety of Tasks Work/Life Balance Contribution to Society Flexibility


Variety of tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexiblity Contribution to Society Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10 12

I spent many years researching career programs. I wanted to help people find a career path they enjoy. It is my passion. I also have the perspective of consulting with employees to increase performance. Much of what helps them improve is matching their skills with the right career.


Helping small groups brainstorm to identify satisfying careers and get excited about their work Creating new career programs and class activities Writing articles, a book, redesigning my website

Many back to back individual clients in one day Billing
HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS IN THE PAST?

Yes, I went from a corporate position in training and development to my own business in a more specific field


I see myself continuing similar tasks at my job.
SUGGESTIONS:
You can work in this field in a variety of ways, as a traditional career counselor or online consulting or in-person in a private firm. You can also work at an outplacement company, a large or small firm. You can own business or with a partner.
WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN?

Yes

EDUCATION:
Degree: PhD, Masters ED.

SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 8/10

17
18
Mental Health Counselors/ Social Workers
19
20
SOCIAL WORKER
(HEALTH AND MEDICINE)

Income: $41,000- $50,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years

MY TYPICAL DAY:
Lead a group of at least 10 patients with 4 group-psychotherapies a day at least 4 times a week. Complete group notes on each patient for each group. Complete psychosocial, treatment plans for each new patient. Case management for obtaining resources for patients. Set up after care appointments once patient graduates intensive outpatient program.

TOP VALUES
1). Challenge/growth 2). Leadership 3). Job Security 4). Ability to Advance


Preparing for group and case management from 8-9AM, groups begin at 930AM and ends at 1:30PM. I then start completing group notes until they are finished which is about 430-5:00PM.




I like the types of groups I am to do with the patients. I get to explore patients strengths and areas of improvement. The time I spend with clients because they are in our program for about three months. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: I do not like that I am unable to complete individuals with patients that could benefit from them. Also not able to take off days easily. MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work during the day, and rarely during the nights/weekends. I have 6-10 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 10-20 hours writing client notes: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours event planning: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours making phone calls: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy 21


I served as an AmeriCorps volunteer in this field (actually at this site) last year and loved it. After my service they offered me a job and I gladly accepted

I see myself moving to a higher position in my Tips: Ask questions about paying for supervision and taking current organization or in another organization. off and paying for CEUs Helpful Clubs/Organizations: Become a member of American Group Psychotherapy Association, take classes on MY EDUCATION: leadership skills, DSMIV, research, documentation, theories Degree: M.A. in Social Work. Skills to develop: Documentation, theories Certifications/licenses: LMSW. WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Yes, I would not change careers. Student Debt upon Graduation: $31,000- $50,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3.5/5

SUGGESTIONS:
22
THERAPIST

Income: $20,000- $30,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 10-25 paid hours Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Miami, FL

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I prepare for sessions, I see clients for 1-hour therapy, I write a progress notes on therapy sessions, I fill out my hours on a time sheet, and I fill out Medicaid billing. I also develop treatment plans and complete CFARS on a weekly basis. SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: I prepare for sessions, I see clients for 1-hour therapy, I write a progress notes on therapy sessions, I fill out my hours on a time sheet, and I fill out Medicaid billing.

TOP VALUES
1). Challenge/growth 2). Work/Life Balance 3). Job Security 4). High Income




Seeing client's for therapy Meeting with client's parents Developing treatment plans Attending monthly meetings with the clinical team. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: Driving to clients Having to document Medicaid billing and hours Coordinating with clients and their parents to schedule therapy. MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work rotating shifts, and am always working nights/weekends. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 10-20 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours writing client notes: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours speaking with clients family: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours making phone calls: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Greatly enjoy

Ability To Challenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Prestige Job Security High Income 0 5 10


I see myself moving to a higher position in another organization.
23
MY EDUCATION:
Degree: Masters of Social Work in Clinical Social Work. Certifications: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Targeted Case Management. Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than $5,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3.5/5

SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Complete many training opportunities and meet with professionals in your field. I wish I had known: It's hard to get a full time position that pays well right out of school. It is also very likely that you will be traveling to client's homes instead of client's coming to you. Helpful Courses/Organizations: Psi Chi, Best Buddies, Social work organizations, Child and Adolescent social work, Social Work Practice, School social work, Family Therapy. Skills to develop: Ability to work with all types of clients, being able to use many different therapy modalities. WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Yes, I love conducting therapy with children and being exposed to a variety of situations in the field and in the office.
24
SOCIAL WORK INTERN


Income: Less than $20,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 26-39 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Gainesville, FL

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I do documentation, clinical work, and mental health assessment such as substance abuse assessments, and suicide/homicide ideation assessment. I also handle crisis interventions, monitoring of veteran's schedules and appointments, and monitoring veterans medication compliance. SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: Transitional House Meeting with Veterans residents, Go to Salvation Army, interview homeless veterans, assess their situation, refer them to correct housing program, mediate between them and other programs, assist them in the whole process.

TOP VALUES
1). Job Security 2). Work/Life Balance 3). Flexibility 4). Co-Worker Relationships



Building Rapport Strengths perspective usage in conversation Overall service to Veterans ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:
My lack of access to certain functions on computer due to being an intern Not being paid as an Intern Politics MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work first shift, and never work nights/weekends. I have 0- 2 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 0 5 10 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 30-40 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy I am a person who likes to help and encourage. I 1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy was previously working in a clerical position 30-40 hours speaking to family members of client: where there was not much dialogue with the Greatly enjoy students we were helping. So I decided to go into 5-10 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy social work where I get to do clinical evaluations every time I meet someone, and I get to direct them to services that can help them. 25
Ability To Challenge/ Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Prestige Job Security High Income
HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS?

Yes, my previous job was very boring and tedious. The job was a lot of data entry and folder maintenance. The lack of thought and challenge left me feeling like I was missing something in the world. MY EDUCATION:

I see myself moving to a higher position in my current organization.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Be open to constructive criticism. Remember that the relationship between you and the patient is more important than the assessment. Degree: Bachelor of Science in Political Things I wish I would have known: Relax. Everyone makes Science and M.S.W in Social Work. mistakes. Certifications: Certified Health Helpful Courses/Organizations: NASW, Psychopathology, Education Specialist; CPR/BLS; First Aid. Theories and Models, CBT Exams/Licenses: CHES (Certified Health Skills to develop: Documentation writing Education Specialist). WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Yes, I get to be an asset to the community. Student Debt upon Graduation: $16,000- $30,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5

26
LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR


Income: Less than $20,000 Salary Hours: Less than 10 hours Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Tallahassee, FL

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I provide individual and couples counseling to those in need of such services. I also am responsible for my own scheduling, billing, paperwork organization, and chart filing. SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: I see a client, write up client notes, and then repeat.

TOP VALUES
1). Work/Life Balance 2). Flexibility 3). Challenge/Growth 4). High Income




Flexibility Being my own boss Helping others
Unsteady pay Intense Mental and emotional requirements Competition MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I have rotating shift work, and never work nights or weekends. 0-2 years in full time employment. I am paid from my personal business. My day is broken into the following activities: 0 5 10 10-20 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 5-10 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 20-30 hours doing research: Greatly enjoy I enjoy helping others and analyzing human 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy behavior. I feel gratified from my work with 1-5 hours consulting: Moderately enjoy helping others. 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Moderately enjoy 10-20 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 10-20 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? 1-5 hours answering messaging/making phone calls: I see myself continuing similar tasks somewhere Moderately enjoy else or moving to a higher position. 27
Ability To Challenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Prestige Job Security High Income
MY EDUCATION:
Degree: B.A. in Communications, M.A. in Mental Health Counseling. Currently working on PhD. Certifications: National Certified Counselor (NCC), Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapist. Exams/Licenses: Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Remember-you pretty much always have to be completely mentally and emotionally available doing this type of work. It is never mindless! Things I wish I had known: It takes two years post-masters to get Licensed! Helpful Clubs/Organizations: ACA, APA, counseling techniques. Skills to develop: Reflecting feelings; case conceptualization.
Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than $5,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3.5/5


Yes! I love it - specifically, love helping others and seeing growth and change within clients.

28
DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

INCOME: $71,000- $80,000; SALARY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 3-5 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:
I arrive at work at 7:45AM and I check emails, phone messages, and my calendar. From 8:00AM until 5:00PM I see clients for a variety of things including: assessment, ongoing support, and referral for services. I consult with staff about cases. I am in charge of supervising staff, interns and practicum students. Additionally, I consult with managers and supervisors about employee concerns. I also manage budget and external contracts, serve on campus Threat Assessment team, and other safety and disaster response team roles. Every day is very different from the next.

TOP VALUES

Co-worker Relationships Contribution to Society Rewards of Helping Others



Variety of Tasks Leadership Relationships Flexibility Contribution Work/Life Prestige Job Security High Income 0 5 10

I fell in love with psychology when I was exposed to it in college and I decided to go for my MSW (Masters In Social Work) because I felt it was the most useful Master's Degree.

The colleagues I work with The clients I serve Working at FSU

Paperwork Contracts Too much work and too little time
HAVE I CHANGED CAREERS IN THE PAST?
WHERE I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS:
Yes, I left inpatient work when my children were I see myself continuing similar tasks. born. I worked for two years in a real estate office and then went to work in an Employee WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Assistance Program. Yes! I love psychology (that is what I read for fun) and I love helping people. EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Masters SUGGESTIONS: in Social Work (MSW). Get lots of intensive experience such as inpatient treatment, Certifications: Certified Employee Assistance crisis stabilization unit, Community Mental health program, Professor, Certified EMDR Practitioner. and others. Exams/Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5

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30
Speech Language Pathologists

31
32
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

INCOME: $61,000- $70,000; SALARY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 21- 30 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:
I arrive at work at 7:45 AM, check e-mail, do paperwork, return phone calls, hold IEP parent conferences, meet with teachers, and plan lessons. I start seeing students for speech/language therapy at 9:00 AM and work straight through the day with students until 3:00 PM. I take a 30-minute lunch break and work at my desk, answering phone calls and responding to E-mails. I also do evaluations and screenings on Wednesday mornings and write reports before and after school. I typically work until 4:30 or 5:00PM doing more paperwork and going to meetings. Paid work hours are between 8:00AM and 3:30PM.

TOP VALUES

Work/Life Balance Job Security Contribution to Society Co-Worker Relationships

Variety of tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexiblity Contribution to Society Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

I wanted to work with kids but did not want to be a classroom teacher. I was encouraged to pursue the Communication Sciences by my sister who was already finished with her degree in Speech/Language Pathology. I found it interesting and rewarding and liked the flexibility offered as to the types of clients I could work with and the different employment areas in the field. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Helping children who are struggling with learning or communicating Working in the school system and having summers off and good work hours for when I was raising my children Flexibility to work for other places besides the school system


The direction Speech Therapists roles are taking- considered more as consultants to teachers and do not seeing as many students Too much government control, too much paperwork. Childrens success not as important as it should be. Pay could be better considering role interacting with teachers and students in the school 33

AM I ACHIEVING MY CAREER GOALS?

Yes.

There is too much pressure and stress working with disabled students and dealing with unreasonable parents. The joy of my job is seeing the reward of a child improving, growing and communicating with confidence. Unfortunately, the enormous amount of paperwork and government red tape has overtaken what is important. The new workforce will have it much harder in the schools. It is not about what is right or good for our students, and benefits are not what they used to be.

EDUCATION:
Degree: B.A. in Education & M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology. Certifications: CCC- Certificate of Clinical Competence, Teaching Certification- K-12 in Speech Therapy. Exams/Licenses: ASHA exam: CCC in Speech Pathology.
SUGGESTIONS:
I would say that if you work in the schools, contract with a private company that provides speech therapy services to the school system. You will most likely get paid better and have better benefits. You will need to have patience and be flexible, as you will be working with many different personalities and some very difficult children and parents.
SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 2.5/5

34
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

INCOME: $41,000- $50,000; SALARY HOURS: 31-40 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 6-10 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:
I usually arrive at work around 8:00 AM and check emails. I then begin preparing for therapy sessions. I base my planning on the skill that was previously worked on in the session before and the performance of the students. The individual educational plan (IEP) is used to decide what the next steps are towards meeting educational expectations/communication goals. I generally see students in speech/language therapy sessions from 9:00 AM till 2:30 PM (allowing for lunch and a few "paperwork breaks" throughout the day.) I am responsible for afternoon car duty daily. Following car duty, I check my email once more and prepare any necessary paperwork for the following day/week.

TOP VALUES

Work/Life Balance Job Security Contribution to Society Flexibility


Variety of Tasks Leadership Relationships Flexibility Contribution Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income

The career I chose provides me with the opportunity to help children learn to communicate more effectively. The idea of this intrigued me. I experienced positive feedback when volunteering and/or observing therapists facilitating the improvement of communication skills, so I decided to take additional classes in the field. I finally completed my master's degree, and the rest is history! ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Helping students communicate more effectively Helping teachers and parents understand students more frequently
8 10

LOTS of paperwork Dealing with students with behavioral issues
HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS IN THE PAST?

Yes, I changed slightly from a SLP to an English Teacher. I changed to have experience working in another country.


I see myself continuing similar tasks in my current
organization.

35

Yes!
EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Certifications: ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence. WOULD YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREER Exams/Licenses: Florida License of Speech-Language AGAIN? Pathology. Yes! I am generally happy with my career choice. I realize that there is no perfect job (at least for SUGGESTIONS: me), so I am happy to have a job in an industry that provides me with the ability to be creative, Be realistic about what you are good at, in addition to what work with people and help people to you enjoy. I feel that we, as people, were placed on this earth communicate more effectively. to be ourselves and to use our gifts to help society in some way. Be true to yourself and those gifts. You also need to SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3.5/5 consider your monetary needs and wants, realizing there is no such thing as a free ride. I personally would choose more time with my family over more money (assuming that would equate to more time working). I realize that other people may have different priorities. Be honest with yourself and what is important to you when choosing your career.
36
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

(EDUCATION)

Income: $51,000- $60,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 6-10 years Location: Reynoldsburg, OH

MY TYPICAL DAY:
My tasks include providing speech and language therapy as well as literacy intervention to students in K-4th grade. I work closely with the classroom teachers to ensure that the students are making progress and classroom material is carried over into our intervention and therapy sessions. I also supervise 2nd year graduate students who are learning to become SLPs in the school setting.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Variety of Tasks 3). Work/Life Balance 4). Leadership




I arrive at work at 6:30 AM; however, we do not have to arrive until 7:15AM. I am a morning person and feel that I can get a lot of work done before 7:15AM. I usually have meetings 3-4 days a week in the morning from 7:15-8:00AM. These meetings may be for IEPs, staff meetings, profesional development, etc. The students arrive at 8:15AM and my first group starts at 8:25AM. I see small groups or individual students every 20 minutes for the remainder of the day. I also have time build into my schedule to test students who may qualify for speech and language services and time build into my schedule to complete paperwork. After school I may have a meeting once a week, but am typically able to leave any time after 3:00 PM.


I love working with the children and watching them make progress towards their goals. I love the environment of my school. It is a generally happy place and everyone has the best interests of the kids in mind. Everyone works together as a team to do whats best for the kids. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:


I have always enjoyed working with others and helping people. I was interested in both medical and educational professions. Speech-Language Pathology offered the ability to have one career in which I could pursue many different job environments and work with many different populations.
The paperwork is the worst part of my job. There are a lot of reports to write and having to bill Medicaid can be cumbersome at times. 37

I see myself continuing similar tasks or moving to a higher position in this organization.
I work first shift, and sometimes work nights/weekends. I have 6-10 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 10-20 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours consulting: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours speaking with family of the client: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours making phone calls: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy
MY EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Speech- Language Pathology and Audiology, Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology. Certifications: CCC from the American Speech and Hearing Association. Exams/Licenses: Ohio Board of Speech and Audiology License, School License for pre-k through 12.
Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than $5,000 in student loans.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: I think some of the most important aspects are having patience, being flexible, and being organized. Helpful Courses/Organizations: I think any education WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Yes! I love my job! There is rarely a day that I do classes would be beneficial. The teachers have a different perspective on a lot of things and I wish I had taken more not want to go to work. I feel like I am making a classes in their field to expand my knowledge. difference and that my job is important in the lives of the kids I help. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4.5/5

38
SPEECH PATHOLOGIST

Income: $71,000- $80,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 11-20 Location: Columbus, OH

MY TYPICAL DAY:
Diagnose and treat communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders in adult populations SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: 30 minutes- treatment planning and organizing the day 5-6 hours of direct patient care, team consultation, patient/family education 1 hour documenting 30 minutes scheduling/planning for the following day

TOP VALUES
1). Variety of Tasks 2). Co-Worker Relationships 3). Challenge/Growth 4). Contribution to Society




Fast pace Interactions with patients and families Student education (work at a University Medical Center) ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:
Electronic Documentation Restrictions on services due to insurance regulations Working weekends and holidays (rotating basis) MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work during the day with some night/weekend work. I have 11-20 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 0 2 4 6 8 10 20-30 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 10-20 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy I wanted a job in health care that would be 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy challenging, but provide variety from day to day. 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy I originally looked into physical therapy, but 1-5 hours speaking with family members of clients: found out that it was very competitive for Greatly enjoy admissions, so I looked at other fields and found Speech Pathology. I picked this profession when 1-5 hours making phone calls: Moderately enjoy I was about 15 years old and never deviated 1-5 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy from my decision! 39
Ability To Advance Challenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income

Absolutely! I love the challenge and diversity that the field of Speech Pathology provides. It is very fulfilling to know that you have a hand in restoring someone's life after devastating illness/injury. MY EDUCATION: Degree: B.A. in Speech and Hearing and M.A. in Science Speech Pathology. Certifications: Certificate of Clinical Competence- American Speech Language Hearing Association Board Recognized Specialist in Swallowing/Swallowing Disorders (BRS-S). Exams/Licenses: License- State of Ohio Praxis Exam.

I see myself continuing similar tasks at current organization or going back to school for the Speech Pathology Ph.D. program.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Realize that you must have a Master's degree as entry level to the field. You need to be well organized and have good time management skills. When researching graduate programs, ask about clinical placements- look for diversity of sites for placements. Also consider programs where academic faculty also has clinical experience. This I wish I had known: Didn't realize scope of populations/environments that SLP's can work in. Helpful Courses/Organizations: National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) Coursework in medical abbreviations, allied health, gerontology. Skills to develop: Writing skills, integration of information, behavioral observation.
Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than $5,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 5/5

40
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

INCOME: $41,00- $50,000 SALARY HOURS: 31-40 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 6-10 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:
On a typical day I arrive 740 AM and check my email and paperwork. My morning duty is to welcome children to school. I then begin therapy at 8:45 AM treating a variety of speech and language disorders with students in Pre-K to 5th grade. I get a 30-minute lunch break that varies daily and school ends at 2:50 PM. I usually stay to do paperwork such as evaluation writing, IEP preparation/creation/treatment notes until 4 PM. (My pay stops at 3:10 though).

TOP VALUES
Job Security Work/Life Balance Contribution to Society Co-Worker Relationships




I had a degree in accounting and was MISERABLE. I hated accounting and did not feel like I made a difference. My family was moving to Florida, and so after 18 months of unhappiness, I moved too. I started waiting tables and did career counseling and jobs such as becoming a teacher/social worker/ and speech pathologist came up. I checked out the speech program at USF and went for it! ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:
I love helping children and their families I get to work at the same school that my kids attend I love my staff

Paperwork

YES! Helping a child to be able to communicate with the people in their lives is a beautiful thing to be a part of.



Yes.
EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and Masters of Science in Speech/Language Pathology. Certifications: Certificate of Clinical Competence. Exams/Licenses: Licensed through State of Florida.

SUGGESTIONS:
There can be some sadness in watching people who cannot communicate or have cognitive deficits. But there is much joy in trying to help them.

SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5

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42
School Psychologists/ Guidance Counselors

43
44
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
(EDUCATION)

Income: $41,000-$50,000 Salary Hours: 45-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Littleton, Colorado

MY TYPICAL DAY:
Each day I provide mental health and special education assessment services to students in kindergarten through 6th grade. I work with kids in groups and individually on their IEP goals for behavior and emotional management. I assess kids' cognitive abilities and their behavioral and emotional needs. I consult with teachers on behavior issues in the classroom and design behavioral interventions.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Challenge/growth 3). Work/Life Balance 4). Variety of Tasks




There is no typical day. From 8:15-8:35AM I usually have car duty, where I help students out of cars and build rapport with families. From 8:45-10:45AM, I assess students, consult with teachers, and write psycho-educational reports. From 10:45-11:15AM: I conduct emotional crisis management for 2nd grader. 11:15-11:45AM: 3rd Grade Social Skills group lesson 11:45-12:15PM: Social skills with student with Asperger Syndrome. 12:15-12:30PM: Individual coping skills lesson with 6th grade girl. 12:30-1:00PM: Behavior management with student who are bipolar. 1:00-1:15PM: Lunch. 1:15-1:45PM: 6th grade girls peer conflict group. 1:45-2:15PM: 4/5-grade self-efficacy group. 2:15-2:45PM: Assessment planning for 5 evaluations. 2:45-3:15PM: 6th grade boys study skills group. 3:15-3:45PM: Assessment planning. 3:45-4:15PM: Consultation with 2/3 GT teachers. 4:15-5:30PM: Assessment planning ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Assessment Consultation Direct work with students
Ability To Advance Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

I want to help students who are not successful in the traditional educational environment. I work ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: to change the environment to be responsive to Paperwork all kids rather than change the student. Evaluation timelines Inconsiderate co-workers 45

I see myself continuing similar tasks at this school, moving to a higher position in this school, moving to a higher position in another organization, or working part-time. EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Developmental Psychology & Master of Arts in School Psychology. Certifications: Nationally Certified School Psychologist. Exams/Licenses: Praxis II, Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (TX), Initial Special Service Provider-School Psychology (CO). Length of time to obtain Degree: 3-4 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: $6,000- $15,000 in student loans.
I work during the day, with some night/weekend work. Have 3-5 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 10-20 hours counseling clients: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 20-30 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours training/supervising: Moderately enjoy 5-10 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours making phone calls: Do not enjoy 5-10 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Know what you are getting into! Students with special needs can be challenging and they often follow you home WOULD YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREER emotionally. You must be able to separate your work and home lives. AGAIN? Yes, although it is challenging, school psychology I wish I had known: Not all adults in education actually want to educate. The adults are the ones that have to change is a very rewarding career if you can enjoy the rather than the students. baby steps that students and teachers make. Helpful Courses/Organizations: Developmental Psychology, education and social work. Any volunteer work SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4.5/5 that can be done with people of all ages with differences and anything that gets you into a public education classroom. Skills to obtain: Assessment, intervention and counseling.
46
GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
(EDUCATION)

Income: $31,000- $40,000 Salary Hours: 45-50 hours a week Years in Position: 6-10 years Location: Tallahassee, FL

A TYPICAL DAY:
See students with various issues (academic, behavioral, emotional); work with schedules/change them, academic planning/advising, email/phone calls with parents, parent teacher conferences, working with teachers to find best options for students.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Work/Life balance 3). Variety of tasks 4). Challenge/growth

Check emails/phone calls, call down "at risk " students, see students as they make appointments throughout the day, see parents as they walk-in from time to time, parent/teacher conferences after school, peer mediations.




Student contact Helping parents find the best possible plan/resource for their students ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:
Pushy parents, and other jobs (testing, etc.) that take away from student contact MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work during the day, and rarely on nights/weekends. I have 6-10 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours writing client notes: Moderately enjoy 0 2 4 6 8 10 10-20 hours assisting students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy Ive always wanted to help others in some way, 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy and this career seemed like the perfect fit. I 20-30 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy enjoy interacting with students at a difficult time 10-20 hours speaking with family members of in their lives, and hopefully help them turn clients: Greatly enjoy things around for the best and cope in the future. 5-10 hours making phone calls: Moderately enjoy 47
Ability To Advance Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income
EDUCATION:
Degree: B.A. in Psychology, Master of I see myself continuing similar tasks at another organization Science/ Education Specialist in School or moving to a higher position in another organization. Counseling and Counseling and Human Systems. SUGGESTIONS: Tips: You have to be able to multi-task and not take things Length of time to obtain Degree: 5-7 years. personally. You will often not finish with a task right after Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than you start it, but have several projects going at once. $5,000 student loan. You wish you had known: That there was a lot more to the job than just counseling. Also, how each school setting WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? (elementary, middle, high) differs dramatically. Yes! Because I believe I am making a difference Helpful Courses/Organizations: ASCA, FCA--- group every day and many jobs cant say that. counseling, internship for sure. Skills to further develop: listening, planning, and leading SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 meetings.

48
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST

Income: $71,000- $80,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 6-10 years Location: Gaithersburg, MD

A TYPICAL DAY:
I attend a lot of meetings on students (IEPs, 504s, problem solving, behavior, and more). I observe students, write behavior plans, collect & analyze data, develop interventions, test students, and write reports.
TOP VALUES
1). Enjoy my Job 2). Job Security 3). Work/Life Balance 4). Flexibility


I get to school, observe a child, test a child, and attend meetings.



Enjoy my Job Ability To Advance Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Society Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income

Flexible schedule Self-directed Something new every day! ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: Driving between schools in bad weather
I work during the day, and never at nights or weekends. Have 6-10 years of full time employment.

My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours training/supervising: Moderately enjoy 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 20-30 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours speaking w/clients family: Greatly enjoy 20-30 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy EDUCATION: Degree: B.A. in Psychology and Education WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? Specialist degree in School Psychology. I see myself continuing similar tasks at my current Certifications: NASP. organization, or working part-time. Length of time to obtain Degree: 5-7 years. SUGGESTIONS: Student Debt: Less than $5,000 Skills to develop: Behavior--FBAs and RtI knowledge WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Satisfaction with my Career: 5/5 Yes! I love my job and it is very lucrative

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50
Teachers & Trainers

51
52
ESOL TEACHER
(EDUCATION)

Income: $20,000- $30,000 Hourly Hours: 10-25 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Dayton, Ohio

MY TYPICAL DAY:
My job is unique in that I am given opportunities to do more than just teach my class. I have a class of roughly 10 intermediate level ESOL students, all adults. They're all immigrants from literally all around the world and most of them are refugees. Not only do these students they learn the language, but they also learn our culture in my class and I learn about theirs. I am able to help them with other things like applying for citizenship as well. Honestly, we are like a family and I truly feel like I'm making a difference in their lives. I have also been given the opportunity to tutor American women living in a shelter for single moms who are trying to obtain their LPN.

TOP VALUES
1). Challenge/growth 2). Contribution to Society 3). Leadership 4). Flexibility




Class is technically from 9-12PM Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday. Many of my students drop their kids off at school so they don't get to class until about 9:30AM. We take a break at 10:30AM. Tuesday's and Thursday's I tutor at the shelter 12:30 to 2PM. Then I have a couple hour break before heading into my evening job. My day is broken into the following activities: 10-20 hours instructing individuals Greatly enjoy 1-5 of advocacy and outreach: Greatly enjoy ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: I love my students. They are the most incredible, inspiring human beings I've ever met. I love being able to serve the population I serve, where I serve (the east Dayton group is much different than our Kettering group). I love knowing that I am making a difference. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: There are days when I feel like I'm wasting their time (for example if I don't have as much energy and am not as creative). I don't like seeing my students struggling, which naturally comes up when I ask about their lives. We also don't have resources (like a copy machine) at our site so I have to make the trip to Kettering to prepare. 53
Ability To Chalenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Prestige Job Security High Income 0 5 10 15


I served as an AmeriCorps volunteer in this field (actually at this site) last year and loved it. After my service they offered me a job and I gladly accepted.


Yes, I'm a recent college graduate and am not 100% sure what I want to do with my life
I work during the day, with no weekend work. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? I see myself moving to a higher position in another organization, or going back to school. I will decide on my school when I return from the Peace Corps. SUGGESTIONS: Tips: Be open-minded. Try to understand and appreciate what your students have been through. Make yourself relatable. The better the relationship with the students the more they will learn and gain. Helpful Courses/Organizations: Get involved with AmeriCorps And Peace corps.

Yes! EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biology. Length of time to obtain Degree: 3-4 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: $16,000- $30,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 5/5

54
TEACHER
(EDUCATION)

Income: $31,000- $40,000 Salary Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Tallahassee, FL


I arrive at school at 7:30AM to have homework assignments projected on the board before the students arrived. Students come in and are allowed to read for 30 minutes. Next, we jump into science, the students prepare for PE. After PE, my students and I walk to the cafeteria to have a 30- minute lunch. Afterwards, we have mathematics, language arts, then a short lesson on social students. I pack my students up, pass out anything that should be sent home, and dismiss my students. Once a month, we have PTO night where we stay after school until 7pm and update parents on their child's progress. Faculty meetings are on Monday for roughly an hour.

TOP VALUES
1). Security 3). Prestige 4). Variety 5). Contribution to Society



MY TYPICAL DAY:
I teach 13 first grade students in a self-contained classroom. I am required to use data to drive my instruction so the content I am teaching is consistently changing. Additionally, I teach all subject areas while ensuring that my classroom management is fully implemented to ensure learning is always being achieved in the classroom. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Working with children Having weekends and holidays off Working in the school environment ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: Unprofessional setting Strict uniform policy 3+ hour meetings MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work a normal day shift, and rarely work nights or weekends. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy 30-40 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours event planning/marketing: Do not enjoy 55


I see myself continuing similar tasks at another organization, moving to a higher position in another organization, going back to school, becoming a stay-at-home caregiver, and also
maybe working part time. If I went back to school, it would be for Counseling and Educational Leadership.
1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours administrative work: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours making phone calls: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy
MY EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Certifications/licenses: Florida Teaching Certificate Reading Endorsement English for Speakers of Other Languages.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Spend time volunteering in the classroom to make sure this is a field you would like Do lots of research (pay, job outlook, requirements). Things I wish I knew: The downside of working in a charter school versus a public school. Helpful Clubs/Organizations: Phi Delta Kappa International Florida Education Association Suggest volunteering at a local school to build relationships with the teachers and administrative staff.

Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: $16,000- $30,000 in student loans. WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Yes! One should enter the educational field with a vast knowledge of the pros and cons of teaching. There are many different directions and areas to grow within the field. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3.5/5

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CLINICAL INSTRUCTOR
(EDUCATION)

Income: $61,000- $70,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Columbus, OH

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I supervise graduate students in their adult clinical experiences. SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: I email grading reports preparing lectures preparing lesson plans for clients more email.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Work/Life Balance 3). Flexibility 4). Job Security




Student interactions/experiences teaching


Department politics
I work first shift, and sometimes work nights/weekends. I have 11-20 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: 1-5 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours writing client notes: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 10-20 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours consulting: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy
Yes, I recently changed from an administrative WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? research role to higher education. Flexibility and I see myself continuing similar tasks at this organization. schedule contributed to my change.
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MY EDUCATION:
Degree: B.Ed., and M.Ed. in Speech- Language Pathology. Certifications: Certified of Clinical Competence. Exams/Licenses: Ohio License to practice Speech-Language Pathology.
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: It is important to get a variety of experiences. Continue to challenge yourself intellectually. Work-life balance is more important than salary. Don't settle for an initial position you really don't want. Your first position can really shape a career. Things I wish I had known: Looking back I am glad I was naive to some of the back room inter-workings of a medical center. It helped me stay positive rather than jaded and cynical. Helpful Courses/Organizations: business courses and finance Skills to develop: organizational leadership courses would have been beneficial for me. WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? The only career change I would do differently is spend a little more time as a clinician and work in an different setting before going into management. My position now is perfectly suited to my lifestyle even though the work environment is not the most positive. I am confident I can work to make changes and will continue to strive to improve morale.

Length of time to obtain Degrees: 3-4 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: $16,000- $30,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5

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TRAINING/DISABILITY SPECIALIST
(NONPROFIT)

Income: $20,000- $30,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 40-50 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Columbus, OH

MY TYPICAL DAY:
Assist clients off the bus and into the building (I work with adults with developmental disabilities-physical and mental); set up work area for clients; train clients to do the job-correct mistakes, demonstrate; help with dinner duty; and help clients achieve goals (work and personal). SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: Arrival-paperwork, bus duty, set up work area, work 1st session, break (may be either in work services cleaning up or in the cafeteria depending on the day), work 2nd session, dinner set up, break (either in cafeteria or in work services cleaning up), work 3rd session, bus duty, clean up work area, paperwork, and leave.

TOP VALUES
1). Challenge/growth 2). Work/Life Balance 3). Contribution to Society 4). Flexibility 5). Variety of Tasks




Working with clients, and helping them gain a sense of community/normalcy. My coworkers are pretty awesome. Job is fairly relaxed: hours are mostly flexible except for the core hours; dress code is practical, lots of vacation days (even for new hires: 16 days vacation/1st year on the job). ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER: Paperwork: necessary evil, but no less boring The shift I work is kind of secondary to the first shift. There is a definite disparity in how the shifts get treated by management Our president and CEO is a real piece of work who has enacted policies that quite frankly, don't make sense, and also don't foster a sense of goodwill or loyalty to the employees. Because of recent decisions, morale is pretty bad.
Ability To Challenge/Growth Variety of Tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexibility Contribution to Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 5 10


I had an internship in this field (at the specific company I'm at) and really enjoyed that. I also knew that working in this field would be beneficial to my future career goals, which requires going to grad school.
I work second shift, and am always working nights/weekends. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. 59

I would. I have definitely learned a lot in this field (people skills, teaching skills, patience, empathy), and where I am at is a great starting place for where I eventually want to go. This career is giving me a great foundation for everything else. WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? I see myself changing my career field to Occupational Therapy, and going back to school for that. MY EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Science in health sciences, specialized in Health and Wellness; Minor in Psychology. Certifications: Certified Health Education Specialist; CPR/BLS; First Aid. Exams/Licenses: CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist).
Length of time to obtain Degrees: 3-4 years. Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than $5,000 in student loans. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 3/5

I'm giving my career 3 stars currently because of some administrative work issues, and the fact that at my organization there isn't anywhere else to really move up to. I do know that there are other positions open in other organizations that allow for much more advancement, and if I wasn't in the process of applying to grad school, I would have submitted an application for that position.

My day is broken into the following activities: 5-10 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours writing client notes: Moderately enjoy 30-40 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy 10-20 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 10-20 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours event planning/marketing: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Moderately enjoy 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy 1-5 hours attending meetings: Do not enjoy SUGGESTIONS: Tips: Realize that it's ok to not like all the clients in this field. You don't like everyone you meet in the "real" world, and you won't like all the clients in this world either. Take copious notes, or at least, be able to write down daily notes. You will have to do daily documentation, as well as monthly and annual assessments. You also should be pretty flexible, and willing to go with the flow. You may plan the day out perfectly, but most days, something will change that plan. I cannot stress this enough: you better be able to handle the stress of this field, it can be quite emotionally heavy. Use your vacation days and leave the issues at work at the office. I wish I had known: There is no such thing as a typical day. Sometimes dealing with the co-workers is more exhausting and challenging than dealing with the clients. Helpful Clubs/Organizations: Courses: Abnormal Psychology, Disability Studies (especially ones focusing on behaviors, documentation for individuals and on policies). Organizations: Goodwill Industries International, the MRDD boards (Mental Retardation & Developmental Disabilities) and Help Me Grow. Skills to develop: Listening skills; teaching skills; language skills-you'll have to express ideas in a variety of ways in order to get the point across depending on the client, and patience.

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INSTRUCTIONAL EMPLOYEE
ORCHESTRA & KEYBOARD DIRECTOR

INCOME: $31,000-$40,000; SALARY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 0-2

A TYPICAL DAY:
I arrive at work at 8:20 AM, check emails, prepare boards for both Keyboard and Orchestra classrooms, and then finalize the day's agenda. At 9:00 AM, I begin the "Morning Duty" of monitoring students in the courtyard, and then I return to the Orchestra classroom where students are arriving. At 9:30 AM I teach First Period, which is a Beginning String Orchestra class that involves violin, viola, cello, and bass with 22 students. After that I teach two blocks of Keyboarding (piano) classes with 22-28 students per class. After a lunch break, I check emails and make "to-do" lists. Students arrive for 4th period and I Teach/Conduct Chamber Orchestra class to 13 students, and then I Teach/Conduct Advanced Orchestra to 42 students from 2:08-2:59PM. I Teach/Conduct Intermediate Orchestra to 23 students from 3:00-3:50PM. Finally, I complete paperwork, communicate with parents, plan future events, concerts and lessons, order music, run errands, etc. The day ends at 4:00 but usually I stay until 4:30 or 5pm to complete planning and other needed work.
ASDF
TOP VALUES
High Income Prestige Variety of Tasks Work/Life Balance

Variety of tasks Leadership Co-Worker Flexiblity Contribution to Society Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

I chose this career path because I was greatly impacted by my former teachers, particularly in music, and wanted to have a similar impact on today's youth.

Working with students and watching them grow as musicians and people Freedom to be creative and lead a group of people Helping others experience music each day

Adhering to mandates: standardized tests, new evaluation systems Very little extrinsic reward to quality of work, not much incentive for going above and beyond Working with students who have no desire to learn and who complain about school

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YES! I enjoy what I do. I am glad to have pursued music and I feel confident in my performance ability and musical knowledge as a result of my studies. I have learned a great deal from teaching such as how to lead people, behavior modification, evidence of effective parenting, how people learn, the importance of preparation and thinking ahead. EDUCATION: Degree: Bachelor of Music in Music Education Certifications: State of Florida Teaching Certificate, K-12 Music


I see myself changing career fields to law and going back to school to get a Juris Doctorate.
SUGGESTIONS:
Know music and your area of specialty within music so well that it is second nature. This will allow you the freedom to think on your feet and plan more effectively sequenced lessons. Get a good mentor in your field. Keep good relationships with your co-workers. Make time for yourself, teaching is very selfless work and requires a lot of rest on time off.

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LIBRARIAN/HEAD OF PUBLIC SERVICES

INCOME: $51,000- $60,000; SALARY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 3-5 YEARS INDUSTRY: HEALTH/MEDICINE

A TYPICAL DAY:
I usually arrive at work at 8 AM and follow up with various people on anything pending from the previous day, then check emails to see what new public services challenges a-wait. Most issues will be addressed or resolved by writing emails in response to the ones received, or writing new emails to find out information to deal with the issues. I will attend or have at least one meeting per day with other librarians, library assistants, or college/university publishing people. The meetings range from informational gatherings to work sessions for creating or editing learning materials or procedural documents. I will also usually assist at least one student, staff or faculty member at the college (both on-campus or at a regional campus) to use our library resources more effectively. I check emails throughout the day to monitor the progress of circulation, reference and research issues.

TOP VALUES
Work/Life Balance Job Security Contribution to Society


I had worked for several years in community or educational development jobs, and discovered that I was very interested in becoming a librarian and using databases to find information. I also like to know how things work, and had always enjoyed doing research, so the idea of combining my communication skills with computers to store and retrieve data was very appealing to me. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:
0 2 4 6 8 10
I enjoy the challenge of working with very intelligent people My communication and training skills are desperately needed here

Supervising a person who does not care about the Yes, I was teaching high school Spanish and quality of their work wanted to work in community development with Hispanics, which was related to both of my WHERE I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS: undergraduate degrees. I see myself moving to a higher position in my current organization. AM I ACHIEVING MY CAREER GOALS? Yes! 63

Yes! I think I would have liked the opportunity to explore engineering, but was never encouraged as a child to be interested in math or science, so I don't know if it would have been a good choice or not.

SUGGESTIONS:
It depends on which aspect of librarianship, but in general, an eye for detail and logic, a respect for the truth, and a strong desire to help other people obtain the best information possible are essential. To be truly effective in today's online world, librarians need to understand the nature of information, all the places it can be found, and all the ways it can be accessed. In terms of medical librarianship, an independent, methodical and patient thinker who likes to solve problems will be successful, while a person who likes to quickly answer customer inquiries and move on to the next challenge will not be appreciated by physicians, researchers, or medical students.
EDUCATION:
Degree: B.A. in Spanish, B.S. in Family and Community Development, M.S. in Library Science. Certifications: Web Design.

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ELEMENTARY EDUCATION TEACHER

INCOME: LESS THAN $20,000 HOURLY PAY HOURS: LESS THAN 10 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 0-2 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:

TOP VALUES

I am in charge of tutoring children on an hourly basis (currently 5 students, 7 hours per week). I work with each child for one hour at a time going over homework, studying together, reviewing sheets and introducing new concepts to them.
Co-worker Relationships Contribution to Society Flexibility Work/Life Balance


Variety of Tasks Leadership Relationships Flexibility Contribution Work/Life Balance Prestige Job Security High Income 0 2 4 6 8 10

I have always loved working with children and have a very good rapport with them. Also, my 26-year career in the Financial Planning field ended when the economy took a turn for the worse and I was laid off. I went back to school to earn my BA in Elementary Education since that is where my passion lies. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:
Making a difference with the children Flexibility Pay


Yes, I changed from the Financial Planning industry due to a layoff.

Uncooperative/Difficult children Feeling as if I am not making a difference No job security

Moving to a higher position in my current organization or going back to school to get my Masters in Education.
Yes! I feel as if I belong working with children. It SUGGESTIONS: is enjoyable and fulfilling for me. Make sure you have a lot of patience! You must love kids and EDUCATION: really want to make a positive difference in their lives Degree: A.A., B.A. in Elementary Education. Certifications: N/A. SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 Exams/Licenses: General Knowledge Exam, Pro Ed Exam.

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STUDIO MANAGER/PROFESSOR

INCOME: $20,000- $30,000 SALARY & HOURLY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 3-5 YEARS

A TYPICAL DAY:
I usually arrive at work around 8 or 9 AM. I check emails and look at the calendar for appointments/meetings for the day. Then I find jobs for the crew throughout the day. I check with each of the staff to see that they are ready to produce for the day. I take lists of supplies needed, help where I can, and write programs for projects. I make deposits, schedules, take care of volunteers, interns, work-study students, and anything else shop related. Then I usually talk with the Director and Public Relations person and update them before I check emails, return phone calls, and make more lists for the next day and then close up shop for the day.

TOP VALUES

Work/Life Balance Leadership Contribution to Society Variety of Tasks


I chose this career because of my love for creating things in the arts. This is my dream job minus $20k. It is also a challenge and I am learning constantly.

Creativity Continued search for knowledge/research Education and Learning

0 2 4 6 8 10

Yes, my passion for arts was the reason I changed careers. I could not, in good conscience, do a job that I didn't like. I went back to school for art and found my career.

Lack of support from administration Poor funding/no benefits Lack of space for our supplies and equipment

I see myself moving to a higher position in my current organization.

Somewhat

Yes! I am very satisfied with what I am doing.

SUGGESTIONS:
Go with your gut. Never listen to others about YOUR future. Only you will know what works for you. Strive continuously for what is important to you.

EDUCATION:
Degree: A.A., B.A., B.F.A., and M.F.A. in Sculpture, Design, and Fabrication.


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68
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

INCOME: $71,000-$80,000; SALARY HOURS: 51-60 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 6-10 YEARS

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I arrive at work at 8:30 AM most mornings and check emails. From 9:00 AM-11:30AM I teach and then hold office hours where I meet with students in my class. I have lunch from 12:30-1:30 PM, and then I meet with graduate and undergraduate students about research projects. From 3:30-5:30 PM I am writing manuscripts, grants, etc. I go home, but usually continue from 9-11PM on additional work such as responding to emails, and providing feedback on student papers.

TOP VALUES
Job Security Prestige Work/Life Balance Contribution to Society



I like the fact that I have a lot of freedom in what I study and how I allocate my time. No one is looking over my shoulder making sure I do my work. Yet, I am expected to accomplish an incredible amount each year. I have to rely on strong interest in my field and strong self-motivation.

It is intellectually stimulating I love working with students I have a great deal of autonomy

Committee work Grant writing Salary could be higher

Yes!


Moving to a higher position in my current organization.

MY EDUCATION:
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Master of Arts and Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology


Yes.
MY SUGGESTIONS:
Get started doing research as early as possible and get experience presenting and publishing your work. Also, get experience teaching and grant-writing.

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Graduate Students
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GRADUATE STUDENT:
SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY PH.D.

INCOME: LESS THAN $20,000 SALARY HOURS: 41-50 HOURS A WEEK YEARS IN POSITION: 0-2 YEARS

MY TYPICAL DAY:
My schedule varies day to day, but I usually have three responsibilities: class, teaching, and research. I spend about 4-6 hours a week in class. Outside of class, I spend from 1-6 hours on classwork depending on the difficulty of the class. I spend 4-8 hours outside of my lab sections preparing lecture material or grading assignments. Whenever I am not teaching or doing classwork, I am doing research. I have a small team of undergraduate research assistants that work directly for me. Once a week for an hour I meet with them and train them to run my studies in the lab. Other research responsibilities include cleaning and analyzing data, submitting materials to the IRB, and writing papers. My advisor takes writing very seriously, and his graduate students are strongly advised to keep 1-3 hours a day of uninterrupted "writing time" working on papers. A typical day also may include meetings with my advisor or other graduate students and office hours.

TOP VALUES
Job Security Work/Life Balance Flexibility Co-Worker Relationships


I have always been interested in how people "work" and what motivates them to think and behave the way they do. I switched my major to psychology when I took a fantastic introductory psychology class. I started getting involved in undergraduate research my sophomore year and worked in two psychology labs every year. I really enjoyed my experiences in those labs and loved the field. I love teaching and learning, and going into academia seemed like the perfect opportunity to do both of those. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Relationships with my fellow graduate and research assistants Being able to design and carry out my own research experiments Mentoring undergraduates


Yes! Although graduate school can be difficult at times, I think it has been a good experience overall. I feel like I am learning the skills that I will need to succeed as a researcher and teacher. I really can't imagine myself doing anything else.


My advisor Publish or perish feel Undergrad students in my classes that are unmotivated and difficult
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MY EDUCATION:
Degree: B.A., M.S., and Ph.D. (in progress) in Social Psychology
SUGGESTIONS:
Tips: Graduate school can be really hard, both the workload and the transition form undergraduate to graduate school. I was pretty miserable my first year and wanted to quit. My undergraduate advisor and family recommended that I stay to finish my Masters degree and then change tracks if I really wanted to. Now, I have finished my second year and it is a lot better. I got used to the work and love my co-workers and the friends I have made. I am really glad I stuck around for another year. I also recently took a class called Preparing Future Faculty. It was a course designed to give ideas of the kinds of jobs in academia, from community colleges to research one-universities. If you have a course like this, take it! It really changed my career path. Its important to remember that there are jobs within academia outside of research that might be a better fit for you. If research isnt for you, dont give up on academia. Pursue your options beforehand.


I see myself as a professor at a selective liberal arts college.

Yes!

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GRADUATE STUDENT:
COUNSELING & SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY

Income: Less than $20,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 26-39 hours a week Years in Position: 3-5 years Location: Tallahassee, FL

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I conduct interviews, evaluate students for ADHD, and structure weekly psycho-educational sessions for a caseload of six client. Then, I interpret assessments results, review interview data, and consult with psychiatrists to formulate DSM-IV diagnostic impressions. I counsel up to 3 individual clients per week, integrating both mental health and career interventions while using a library of over 3,000 resources and computer-based assessments. I have acquired experience in emergency intervention, consultation, risk management, and referral making. I performed workshops on conflict management and resolution, effective communication, stress management, and workplace violence to departments within the University.

TOP VALUES
1). Contribution to Society 2). Co-Worker Relationships 3). Challenge/Growth 4). Flexibility 5). Job Security




8-9 AM: supervision. 9-11AM: 2 individual clients. 12-1PM: drop-in advising. 1-2PM: lunch and progress notes. 2-3PM: ADHD coaching. 3-4:30PM: LD/ADHD evaluation. 5:00- 6:30PM ADHD Counseling Group. 6:30-7:30PM: Progress Notes. 7:30-8:00PM: Prepare for Supervision. 8-9:00PM: Dinner. 9-11:30PM: Dissertation. ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: Working with people Helping others The flexibility and diversity it provides ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:
Paperwork Number of meetings weekly Having to report to multiple supervisors WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I had a desire to help others and make a positive I work during the day, but will often work nights and difference to society. I also appreciate research, weekends. I have 0-2 years of full time employment. teaching others, and the process of supervision. I know that I also establish rapport easily with clients and could never work in an office setting 24/7.
0 5 10
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My day is broken into the following activities: MY EDUCATION: 20-30 hours counseling clients: Greatly enjoy Degree: Bachelor of Science in 1-5 hours writing client notes: Do not enjoy psychology, M.S./Ed.S. in Mental Health 5-10 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy Counseling, Pursuing a Ph.D. in 1-5 hours doing research: Greatly enjoy Counseling and School Psychology. 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours training/supervising: Greatly enjoy Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years. 1-5 hours consulting: Moderately enjoy Student Debt upon Graduation: Less than 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy $5,000 student loan. 1-5 hours self education: Greatly enjoy 5-10 hours administrative work: Do not enjoy WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS? 1-5 hours making phone calls: Do not enjoy I see myself moving to a higher position in 1-5 hours attending meetings: Moderately enjoy another organization. SUGGESTIONS: WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? Tips: Network with others in the field, attend professional Yes! conferences, collaborate with others in the field conducting research, use a planner, meet with your major professor SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 4/5 weekly, be proactive, and you must self-advocate. Things I wish I had known: How to better balance work, school, and personal. That policies and procedures change, so when you start a program it doesn't necessarily mean that what you bought into will remain the same. I wish I had been a better public speaker, taken a class in marketing, and learned how to budget finances better Skills to develop: Consultation, case conceptualization, supervision, and diagnosing clients. Essentially everything -- always keep learning and growing!
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GRADUATE STUDENT
CAREER COUNSELING M.S./ED.S

Income: Less than $20,000 Hourly Pay Hours: 10-25 hours a week Years in Position: 0-2 years Location: Tallahassee, FL

MY TYPICAL DAY:
I provide direct services to students and community members; assisting them find information on occupations and majors, gain self-knowledge, and explore their decision making styles (what works and doesn't work). SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY: 9:00 am: I usually come to campus around 9:00 to prepare for the Career Development Course, then I go on-desk at the Career Center at noon. From noon until 4:30, I am on-desk where I provide the services noted in the previous question. There are times when workshops and other outreach services are provided.

TOP VALUES
1). Job Security 2). Leadership 3). Work/Life Balance 4). High Income


I enjoy the atmosphere of learning, working with the student population and the environment at the Career Center. I enjoy providing information on our services and other important information related to occupations and the area of self-knowledge. ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:
At this point, I haven't found any aspect of this position that I do not like. MY EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION: I work first shift, and rarely work nights/weekends. I have 6- 0 5 10 10 years of full time employment. My day is broken into the following activities: WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER: 5-10 hours assisting/advising students: Greatly enjoy 1-5 hours instructing individuals: Greatly enjoy While in a mental health counseling position, I 1-5 hours doing research: Moderately enjoy met and supervised a Career Counseling major. I 1-5 hours event planning/marketing: Greatly enjoy was able to learn a great deal about this field, and found that it meets my needs almost 1-5 hours advocacy/outreach: Greatly enjoy perfectly. I hope to find a full-time position upon 5-10 hours self education: Greatly enjoy graduation that will allow me a moderate-high 1-5 hours attending meetings: Greatly enjoy income, work-life balance, opportunities for advancement as well as other areas of personal fulfillment. 77
MY EDUCATION:
I see myself moving to a higher position in another organization. HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS? Yes, my change was a moderate change. I went from mental health counseling to career counseling. Mental health counseling is a great field, however I feel that the field of Length of time to obtain Degrees: 5-7 years career counseling better meets my personal needs. In this Student Debt upon Graduation: $50,000- field I am able to provide counseling in the traditional sense, $100,000 in student loans. as well as guidance, information and tools to the client. I feel the immediate identification of a successful appointment is helpful and fulfilling at this time in my career. Compared to WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN? year-long sessions for mental health clients where successful Yes, I would! I enjoy feeling like I'm able to make a positive difference for some people. I also feel sessions were subjective and sometimes very hard to identify. like the people I've met throughout my career in mental health counseling, and now career SUGGESTIONS: counseling have great influenced me in a positive way. I enjoy the challenges of working Tips: I would encourage others to not let fear hold them with people, as compared to back from making change. I would also say to be open to data/computers/retail, etc. and feel I have been exploring areas of interest, even if they are not what you allowed to grow a great deal because of my work expected from yourself. with others. Things I wish I had known: Managing finances have a huge impact on the decisions I've been able to make. If I had known at a younger age that I'd be interested in going to SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 5/5 Graduate School, I'd have planned for it financially. Helpful Courses/Organizations: Join organizations that encourage leadership roles, help develop communication skills, and take courses that help a person better know themselves. I feel like one cannot be a successful and helpful counselor without first knowing their own issues and working to resolve them. Skills to develop: Skills related to explaining topics and communicating ideas. Degree: M.S./Ed.S. Career Counseling/ Education Certifications: Certified Health Education Specialist; CPR/BLS; First Aid Exams/Licenses: CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist)
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My name is Leigh Eskin, and I am a student at Florida State University, working towards an M.S./Ed.S. in Counseling and Human Systems with a concentration in Career Counseling. I am very excited to have completed this Helping Professions 2012-2013 booklet, and to provide students the opportunity to read about professionals personal career experiences. My hope is to create a large-scale website called Career-Click that will have hundreds of these Professional Career Profiles for students and job-seekers to use. Please feel free to email me at: eskin.21@gmail.com if you have any questions or suggestions. Thank you, enjoy!!
*See next pages for the research study done on some of these select Professional Profiles. 79
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By Leigh Eskin & Tiffany Nelson M.S./Ed.S. Career Counseling Florida State University

What we did!!
! We contacted over 50 professionals in the field and
asked them to complete a survey about their career experiences! Career Profiles: a one page document with charts and a quick glance into that persons career Professional Career Profiles online, and then completed a computer-generated survey where they rated how helpful they found this information to be
! 36 responses were organized into Professional
! Students (n=46) read at least three of these
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Student Demographics
! Students from the SDS 3340 Career Development
class completed the survey
! Most students were seniors, all were undergraduate

Exploratory Criminology Economics Sociology History Theatre Sports Management Religion Hospitality Management Finance Environmental Studies Athletic Training
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Student Ratings of the Professional Career Profiles

I would like to read additional Professional Career Profiles about careers I am interested in I learned something new from reading the Professional Career Profiles My career questions can be answered by reading Professional Career Profiles I feel that the Professional Career Profiles are an unreliable source of information Reading the Professional Career Profiles had an impact on the career I might choose to pursue The Professional Career Profiles provided information that is difficult to find anywhere else
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35
Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Strongly Disagree
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Student Ratings of the Professional Career Profiles

! Students indicated that:
! They would like to read additional professional profiles ! They learned something new from reading the profiles ! And they felt their career questions could be answered
! Students disagreed that:

! The professional profiles are an UNRELIABLE source of
information ! *They were not simply agreeing with each statement!
! Students were mixed on:

! Whether the profiles had an impact on their career ! If the information is difficult to find anywhere else

Would you use a database with hundreds of Career Profiles?

Maybe 13% Definitely Yes 38% Definitely Yes Probably Yes Maybe Probably Not Definitely Not
Probably Yes 49%
87% indicated that they would definitely or probably use this database! There were NO students who would NOT use this database!
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Why or Why Not?

Yes
! Information is succinct, cleanly organized, and simply put! ! Nothing is more honest than an anonymous source ! Personal perspectives of people currently in the field ! Mentions both positives and negatives of the career
Maybe
! I already know what I want to do ! Information may become outdated

Student Quotes
! It creates an easily accessed tool where everyone can explore all the
careers they are interested in with real life in depth descriptions without the hassle of searching through the internet someone actually doing the job.
! Clearly everyone is different, but its always nice to get an input from ! It gives you a first hand perspective of what the job is actually like. It
also includes some of the downfalls to the job, which is helpful know the demands of a career than someone who's in it?
! Nothing is more honest than an anonymous source. And who better to ! This is great! It goes into detail about different things we students want
to know about some of these jobs that we don't have direct access to. difficult to find it so cleanly organized and simply put.
! While it may not be impossible to find this information elsewhere, it is ! I would love to look into more opportunities
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Which aspects of the Professional Career Profiles did you find most helpful?
Daily tasks and duties The positive aspects of the careers The negative asepcts of the careers Ratings of career satisfaction Value ratings Professionals' suggestions for students Motivation to choose the career path Whether they would choose their career again
0 5 10 15 27 25 24 24 23 20 25 30 35 40 45 39 37 36
*Almost all students indicated that most of the aspects were helpful!
Further Questions Students Would Like to Ask Professionals

Theme Example # of Students Interested 7 6 5 5 3
Work-Life Balance Education/Training Expectations vs. Reality Reason for Career Choice Career Path
How is the balance between work and your social life? How difficult was the education process? Was it worth it to take this career path? Any regrets? What inspired you to take this career path? What are the steps you took to get where you are at today?
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Helping Professions Career Profiles 2012-20131

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!!

Mental Health Counselors/ Social Workers..Page 19

Speech Language Pathologists..Page 31

School Counselors/ Psychologists..Page 43

Graduate Students and Others..Page 71

A LOOK INTO WHATS INSIDE

1). WHAT IS THIS??

2). HOW THIS BOOKLET WILL HELP YOU!

What is it actually like to work in the field?

3). WHAT CAREER AREAS DOES THIS BOOKLET COVER?

This booklet will provide many of those answers!!

SCHEDULE OF TYPICAL WORKDAY

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

SCHEDULE OF TYPICAL WORKDAY

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

CAREER PLANNING SPECIALIST

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL WORKDAY

Variety of Tasks Work/Life Balance Contribution to Society Flexibility

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:

Many back to back individual clients in one day Billing

HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS IN THE PAST?

WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN?

SATISFACTION WITH MY CAREER: 8/10

Mental Health Counselors/ Social Workers

SCHEDULE OF MY TYPICAL DAY:

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

SOCIAL WORK INTERN

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

HAVE I CHANGED CAREER FIELDS?

WHERE DO I SEE MYSELF IN 5 YEARS?

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE LEAST ABOUT MY CAREER:

WOULD I CHOOSE MY CAREER AGAIN?

DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Co-worker Relationships Contribution to Society Rewards of Helping Others

HOW MY CAREER FITS MY VALUES:

WHY I CHOSE THIS CAREER:

ASPECTS I LIKE MOST ABOUT MY CAREER: