Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Audrey Batista Professional Development Plan Kent State University

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN There comes time in ones life when faced with the question, What do you plan on doing with your life? Many undergraduate students will face this question as they enter their junior and senior level classifications. The undergraduate student may respond with an answer based solely on their academic major or area of interest. Now turn the focus to a graduate student in a program for higher education. The answer to that very same question is not one that will come easily to the student. With a multiplicity of professional facets, higher education and student affairs is without a doubt, one of the most intrinsic and least understood professions. When asked what they plan on doing with their life,

graduate students in higher education programs will most likely give up to three or four different areas of interest in which they would care to work within the student affairs profession. While each answer will appear completely different from the other, there will be one common goal; the success of the students, employees, and well being of the department, at the college or university. With this in mind, it is important for graduate students in higher education programs to evaluate their current contexts and their true passion, and the actions they may take to pave their way to success. In the following pages, I will reflect on my own context and the abilities and knowledge I have developed throughout my experiences. In addition, I will design a plan to guide me through my next year and a half as a graduate student, my leap into the workforce post graduation, and the career path I wish to develop into during the next 10 years. Before I begin, allow me to give a brief summation of my current context. I currently hold a bachelors degree in public relations and am a graduate student in the program for higher education administration and student personnel at Kent State University. I am also working as an Assistant Hall Director on the Kent State campus and have been in the field of housing going on

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN four years. I am truly passionate about working in a profession that will allow me to combine

my interest in public relations and student affairs while applying skills I have gained through my time with housing. When I stop to look into the future, I see myself working as a Director of Special Events for a college or university. I have always had a strong interest in program planning and promoting ideas in a positive light. Serving as a Director of Special Events will allow me the opportunity to work in the college/university setting where I may implement my skills learned through student affairs such as the appreciation for an academic setting, working with students, higher education structure, faculty appreciation and more. Through this position I will also have the opportunity to combine my skills from my public relations background such as building relationships internally within an organization, and within the community. I will also apply communications skills gained through my public relations degree such as creating media releases, working with a team to organize and implement events, and the promotion of the events to the intended public. Attached as appendices are three job opportunities that support my ten year career goal and serve as hybrid careers that combine my interests in student affairs and public relations interest. Appendix A is a job posting for a Director of Public Events and Malott Commons Public Affairs Programming. The job opportunity is through Scripps College in Claremont, California and is filed under the category of administration. This position works directly with public relations and the promotion of the college on a regional, national and international level. In addition to a sufficient amount of public relations work, the job also requires experience in a professional college or university setting.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN The second job posting, Appendix B, comes from Arkansas Tech University as Coordinator of Marketing and Special events which would allow me the opportunity to utilize more of my skills in student affairs as I would be working directly with student attended events

such as homecoming, siblings weekend, and would working with and supervising a student staff as well as student leaders. I would also be given the chance to work with public relations as I would coordinate outreach programs such as conferences in an effort to build communication and rapport between departments. Appendix C is a job posting that comes from the Hofstra University School of Law in New York as a Director of Special Events. Through this position, I would have the opportunity to combine my interests in student affairs and public relations as I would work with several departments such as Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Development, Alumni Relations, Communications, and Enrollment Management. I would also be responsible for implementing and overseeing various Law School events, including academic conferences, lectures and symposia, admitted student receptions, and fundraising dinners and receptions, both on- and offcampus. Included below is a table in which I will list the knowledge and experience needed to perform admirably in a position as a Director of Special Events, the skills I have and am currently gaining, and a list of the actions I intend to take in order to achieve the skills needed.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

KnowledgeSkillsExperienceCredentials 10 year Goal Knowledge Public Relations Student Affairs Conferencing Special Event Planning Skills Excellent attention to detail and the ability to direct multiple projects simultaneously. Excellent organizational, communications and management skills. Comfortable negotiating for cost savings. Ability to excel under pressure and meet deadlines. Proficient using MS office. Able to work evenings and weekends as required. Project management and excellent interpersonal and oral and written communications skills Collaborate and Contribute to a team environment Web development Supervisory Skills Experience Managing events for higher education, nonprofit, or political organizations. Proven experience with Excel spreadsheet applications, data management, and large letter mail merges for fundraising events. Experience in public relations protocols to create plans, timelines, budgets KnowledgeSkillsExperienceCredentials Current Knowledge Public Relations Student Affairs

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Concrete ActionsProfessional Development--Experiences Concrete Actions Seek an internship in Special Events and Conferencing Work on Professional Development Seek opportunities to practice public relations Work with community development initiatives for a university Develop a better understanding of Microsoft excel and web management Plan and implement creative programs where applicable Join a planning committee Professional Development Join ACPA Renew Membership for the Association of Women in Communications Join a public relations newsletter Attend conferences

Skills Ability to balance multiple projects at one time Excellent organizational and management skills Ability to work under pressure Ability to work evenings and weekends Ability to supervise Verbal and written communication Language- Portuguese Community Development Educational Programming Advising and Mentoring Student Staff, Leadership and Leadership Development, Public and Motivational Speaking, Microsoft Office Proficient Customer Service Abilities Ability to manage a budget Experience Media Relations Supervising student staff Advising Student Staff Experience with Budgeting Program planning and implementation Weekend and Night Commitments Working Under Pressure Writing press releases Networking Credentials B.A. Public Relations M.Ed. Program for HIED-Current

Experience Conferencing Special Event Planning Fundraising Collaboration between multiple departments within a university Public Relations and communications work

Credentials Bachelors Degree

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Directly after receiving my M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration and Student Personnel, I would like to continue my work through Housing as a Hall Director. While this does not appear to immediately align with my 10 year plan to become a Director of Special Events, the choice to pursue a position as a Hall Director is very strategic. Working in housing gives me an opportunity to expand on multiple skills that will become useful to me as I pave my path as a professional in student affairs. The Hall Director position will allow me to work on my professional development and collaboration efforts between on campus departments, as well as develop as a supervisor. However, I will have to work efficiently during my graduate career to align my skills and value with that needed to fit the position of a satisfactory hall director. Listed below are skills desired for true job posting from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. In the list below you will find not only the skills desired for the position, but the actions I will be taking during my time here at Kent State University to ensure that I am a qualified candidate for the position. Please see Appendix D to view the actual job posting. Primarily responsible for administering the Residence Life program for one residential area housing 250-650 students. Currently have experience working in a hall with almost 800 students Gain experience in working with a smaller hall. Transfer to a non-tower building next year. Directly supervises 5 to 10 Resident Assistants to implement residence hall philosophy and programs. Currently supervise Resident Assistant duty shifts and budget requests.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Request permission to supervise Resident Assistants complete with educational programming, days away, floor functions and educational balance during the upcoming semesters.

The Hall Director develops the resident staff and facilitates the design of educational and social programming. Lead and facilitate a building program put on by student staff members. Lead at least one of these programs each semester.

The Hall Director is expected to serve as an educator by developing the leadership of students and encouraging community investment in an established code of conduct that emphasizes respect for self and others. Promote the Hallways Handbook that defines the hall policies and expectations on a regular basis. Provide leadership development opportunities such as committee chairs for program planning for students via hall council or additional student based outlets. Set high expectations for residents and student staff and express these expectations and the beginning of the year. Provide encouragement and motivation and lead by example.

Hall Directors collaborate with Residence Life staff, Chaplains/Faculty in Residence, and other departments and staff within the University community. Work closely with living learning community colleges and advisors to build rapport. More specifically, work with the College of Arts and Sciences learning community with Wright Hall where I am located in an effort to gain experience in collaboration efforts.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Evening and weekend duties are expected. Flexibility in the work day is encouraged, especially if there are evening responsibilities that night. Currently hold a flexible schedule and serve on a rotating on-call schedule. Continue to hold a flexible schedule. Offer more hours in the evening. Hall Directors serve on, lead and/or advise Residence Life committees and project areas. Currently advise student based organizations (Hall Council and the National Residence Hall Honorary). Request to be placed on different committees such as student staff training and selection, sustainability committee, and a social justice committee. Must have a master's degree with a focus in higher education or student affairs administration, counseling, or a related field. Currently have a Bachelors Degree in Public Relations. Currently in the Kent State University Program for Higher Education. Administration and Student Personnel. Maintain a satisfactory GPA. Other skills to develop that are not listed in the job position Student Conduct and disciplinary meeting experience. Meet with students and designate sanctions for misconduct. Present at a national conference (ACPA). Specifically on the challenges and opportunities faced in Residence Services.

Academic initiative experience. Work with the Director of Academic Initiatives to gain more experience in this field.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Move to an upper-class hall with less students to gain diverse experience. Obtain an ART Certification for advising. Work to receive professional development awards. Instruct a LISA course. Implement theories and strategies gained in my course work into my current position.

Additional opportunities will be taken as they present themselves over the course of the next year and half. In reflecting over the goals and actions I have list the previous pages, I have discovered a few things about myself, my views, and my interests. When I started this project, I was under the impression that I solely wanted to discuss my goals in gaining a position in recruitment through an admission department at a college or university. As I looked through the job positions and descriptions, I became somewhat skeptical as to if working in admissions was something I truly wanted to do. I knew at this point that it was time to truly reflect on what I wanted to do. I decided to create a list of all of the things that interested me. When I finished creating this list, I realized that my interests in public relations had an equal balance with my interest in student affairs. Coming into the graduate program for HIED, and working as an Assistant Hall Director, it is easy to become consumed with student affairs and all of the wonderful opportunities that surround the profession. When I saw how many of my interests continued to lean towards public relations, I was immediately aware that I had put aside my undergraduate work and passion and replaced it with my passion for student affairs. What I should have been doing all along was balance my two passions. It was at this point that I had entered into a crossroad. After speaking with one of my cohorts, I was reminded of an email sent out on the

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN GRASSP listserv for a job opportunity for a Director of Marketing and Special Event at Arkansas Tech University. Having interviewed with Arkansas Tech before at the Oshkosh Placement Exchange in the spring of this year, I was interested to see what the position was about. After reading the

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responsibilities and requirements for the position, I experienced my own form of the clich light bulb. The position listed many of the interested I had posted on my personal list of interests. As I began researching similar opportunities, I knew for certain that working in a Special Events department would be the ideal place for me to implement my skills in public relations and student affairs. After finding this new interest, lining out my professional development plan became a matter of writing naturally. I was able to create my ideas with ease and did not feel that my thoughts were forced or unsure. I have learned through this project that it is important to trust your own instinct when it comes to your career and future plans. You are the only one who truly knows what you want. I have also learned that nothing comes easily and there will be a lot of hard work and obstacles to be conquered along the way. However, I am confident that with determination and positivity, I will be able to achieve my goals. This overall experience has been positive and educational. Goals are important to keep in mind especially when faced with so many opportunities. However, it is additionally important to stay true to yourself and understand that goal can be modified or even changed. It is with dedication to your work and belief in yourself, that success is possible. It is impossible to write the future without paving your path through the present, and it is impossible to pave your path through the present without learning from your past.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Appendix A Director of Public Events and Malott Commons Public Affairs Programming Institution: Scripps College Location: Claremont, CA Department: Admin-Conference and Events Category: Administration Posted: 10/28/2011 Application Due: Open until filled Type: Full Time Salary: DOQ USD Per Year Scripps College, the women's college of the Claremont Colleges, seeks a Director of Public Events and Malott Commons Public Affairs Programming. Under the supervision of the Vice President for Communication and Marketing, the Director of Public Events and Malott Commons Public Affairs Programming is responsible for managing the development and continued expansion of local, regional, national, and international speakers series and public events strategies to increase exposure of Scripps College worldwide. The director serves as a primary contact for all strategic public events and Malott Commons public affairs programming, scheduling, and contracting. Duties also include various public

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affairs and public relations efforts; development of content for the College website and magazine related to public events and Malott Commons public affairs programming; targeted media approaches and story pitches related to public events; and chairing an active advisory board composed of faculty, staff, students, and alumnae. The Director will strategize, plan, coordinate, and initiate events that support the College's strategic priorities and work with the Vice President

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in developing and measuring public events objectives and outcomes. The Director supervises an administrative assistant and may supervise outside consultants and student interns. He or she is responsible for managing a program budget and collaborating with Institutional Advancement to manage endowed funds dedicated to public affairs programming. The successful candidate will have a strong entrepreneurial attitude, superior communication and relationship-building skills, outstanding organizational and writing skills, a sense of news and public interest, strong interest in the topics of the day, the ability to prioritize competing demands and tasks, strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently, superb promotional and public relations skills, and a proactive and creative approach to events and community outreach. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or business is preferred with progressive experience in special events, public affairs, and integrated media relations, preferably within both academic and private sector arenas. Knowledge of special events, marketing communications, public relations, and project management and excellent interpersonal and oral and written communications skills are crucial. Media relations or significant journalism experience within a major media organization, corporate, professional public relations firm or a professional school or college/university environment is helpful. Experience in public relations protocols to create plans, timelines, budgets, and results for various programs is essential. Working knowledge of graphic image formats and their use is a plus. Ability to determine, then establish, appropriate procedures and systems to accomplish broadly-defined goals and demonstrated progressive experience with public event management is required.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Application Procedure Applicants should submit a letter of application, resume and names, titles, and contact information for three professional references to: Claudia Jones, Scripps College, Office of Human Resources, 385 E. 9th Street, Claremont, CA 91711, or by email to: ScrippsHR@scrippscollege.edu Scripps Employment Application is available online at http://www.scrippscollege.edu Closing Date Screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled. Scripps College is one of seven members of The Claremont Colleges Consortium located 35

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miles east of Los Angeles. In a continuing effort to build a diverse academic community and to provide equal educational and employment opportunities, Scripps College actively encourages applications from women and members of historically under-represented groups.

Online App. Form: Email Address:

http://www.scrippscollege.edu/about/employment/index.php ScrippsHr@scrippscollege.edu

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Appendix B Coordinator of Marketing and Special Events The Office of Student Services is seeking candidates for the position of Coordinator of Marketing and Special Events. This is a full-time, non-tenure track, 12-month position.

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This position requires a bachelors degree. Primary job functions and duties and responsibilities are listed below. About Arkansas Tech University Founded in 1909, Arkansas Tech University is rich in history and is now one of the fastest growing universities in the region. With an over 50 percent enrollment increase since 1998, the current campus population exceeds 10,000 students. Arkansas Tech University, located in Russellville, Arkansas, is situated in the heart of the Arkansas River Valley Tri-Peaks region. Nestled between the beautiful Ozark and Ouachita Mountains as well as Lake Dardanelle State Park, Russellville offers small town appeal with city benefits. With a population of almost 25,000, Russellville is only an hour from the capital city. Special Events and Student Center Operations This full time professional staff member will be responsible for the planning and execution of campus special events. Such events include Homecoming, Family Day, lectures and concerts. The successful candidate should have experience in marketing and promoting events through all forms of media. The staff member selected will be expected to work with various student leaders and other staff members across campus to organize and execute each event. In addition to special events, this staff member will be the primary person responsible for student center operations, including coordinating the schedules of the student center staff and supervising one graduate

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN assistant and approximately 20 student workers. The facilities management portion of the position will include oversight for three buildings.

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Duties and Responsibilities Planning and executing campus special events Marketing and promoting special events Working with student leaders and other staff members to organize and plan each event Managing the special events budgets Coordinating operations and overseeing the reservation process for three facilities Coordinating the set-up of the rooms, managing equipment, facility maintenance and troubleshooting as required for activities, meetings, and events Public relations outreach as related to hosting meetings and conferences with on and off campus groups Maintenance of game room facility and equipment Knowledge of all technical equipment used in each facility, i.e. audio, visual, computer equipment

Maintenance of Student Services website Supervising one graduate assistant and approximately 20 student workers Coordinating schedules for the student center staff Coordinating campus event calendar Occasional evening and weekend work is required Minimum Requirements

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Bachelors degree Preferred Requirements Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Marketing and event promotion experience Experience in web development Experience with audiovisual equipment Supervisory experience Dedication to creating a collaborative and creative work environment Ability to manage multiple projects Detail oriented and the ability to prioritize Willingness to collaborate and contribute in a team environment Compensation Salary range is $32,000 - $36,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications plus full benefit package including excellent health insurance, vacation and retirement package. How to apply Send a letter outlining your qualifications, a resume, and contact information for at least five professional references to Mr. Kevin Solomon, Associate Dean of Students for Campus Life, Doc Bryan Student Services Building 233, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, AR 72801, 479-968-0239 or via email at ksolomon@atu.edu. (AA/EOE)

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Applications are due no later than November 25, 2011 at 5:00 pm. Anticipated employment start date is January 2, 2011.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Appendix C

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Director of Special Events Institution: Hofstra University School of Law Posted: October 12, 2011 Location: New York Employment Level: Administrative Website: http://law.hofstra.edu/home/index.html Application Deadline: November 12, 2011 Category: Conferences/ special event administration Employment Status: Full-time Salary: Commensurate with experience

The Director of Special Events is responsible for the planning and execution of events at the Law School. The Director works closely with Law School faculty and several departments, including Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Development, Alumni Relations, Communications, and Enrollment Management and is responsible for implementing and overseeing various Law School events, including academic conferences, lectures and symposia, admitted student receptions, and fundraising dinners and receptions, both on- and off-campus. The Director reports to the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Responsibilities Collaborate effectively with Law School faculty, as well as Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Development, Enrollment Management, Alumni Relations, and Communications administrators and staff to provide leadership for the planning and execution of major events, including

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academic conferences, distinguished guest lectures, alumni and donor dinners, accepted student events, and other seasonal events such as orientation and commencement activities. Develop event management policies and procedures and provide training to enable law school staff to assist in implementing events. Identify and manage the critical details associated with events, including guest lists, invitations, contracts, time lines, entertainment, gift bags, awards, food and beverage menus, staff and volunteer assignments, photography, seating charts, place cards, flowers, rentals, audio-visual requirements, directional memos for facilities, etc. Ability to adhere to budgetary guidelines, process contracts with outside vendors, and reconcile event budget reports. Collaborate with the marketing and development staff to obtain sponsors for events. Develop online registration for events through the University's Marketplace program and liase as needed with central administration regarding required paperwork. Coordinate and manage the distribution of marketing materials such as invitations, posters, brochures, event programs and other print materials. Manage website content for events. Develop and implement internal communications about events. Maintain the law school's master events calendar. Qualifications Bachelor's degree required. A minimum of 5 years of demonstrated experience in managing events for higher education, nonprofit, or political organizations. Excellent attention to detail and the ability to direct multiple projects simultaneously. Ability to collaborate and interface with colleagues within Hofstra Law School and across the University.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Excellent organizational, communications and management skills. Comfortable negotiating for cost savings. Ability to excel under pressure and meet deadlines. Proficient using MS office.

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Proven experience with Excel spreadsheet applications, data management, and large letter mail merges for fundraising events. Experience with Banner, a plus. Able to work evenings and weekends as required. Please direct your confidential letter of inquiry, with resume and salary requirements, to Teresa Harrington, Operations Coordinator-Personnel, 121 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549, (516) 463-6091 (fax) or Lawtzh@hofstra.edu.

Hofstra University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity in its faculty, administrative staff and student body, and encourages applications from the entire spectrum of a diverse community. For further information, please visit law.hofstra.edu.

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN Appendix D

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Hall Director Georgetown University Category: Admin- Residence Life and Housing Posted: 10/21/2011 Type: Full Time Salary: 29,000 USD Per Year This position requires January 2012 availability/start date. The Hall Director is a full-time professional staff member within the Office of Residence Life. A master's degree with a focus in higher education or student affairs administration, counseling, or a related field, is required. Successful candidates will also demonstrate a thorough understanding of and commitment to Residence Life work as well as the education and character development of college students. Previous Residence Life experience is preferred. The Hall Director is primarily responsible for administering the Residence Life program for one residential area housing 250-650 students. The Hall Director directly supervises 5 to 10 Resident Assistants to implement residence hall philosophy and programs. The Hall Director develops the resident staff and facilitates the design of educational and social programming. The Hall Director is expected to serve as an educator by developing the leadership of students and encouraging community investment in an established code of conduct that emphasizes respect for self and others. To fulfill these expectations of education and service, Hall Directors collaborate with Residence Life staff, Chaplains/Faculty in Residence, and other departments and staff within the Georgetown community. Evening and weekend duties are expected. Flexibility in the work day

Running head: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN is encouraged, especially if there are evening responsibilities that night.

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On a rotating basis, Hall Directors provide on-call, campus-wide emergency response. The Hall Director position is designated as an "Emergency" employee. This position must always report to work on time in the event of an emergency or severe weather conditions, whether or not the University is closed. Hall Directors also serve on, lead and/or advise Residence Life committees and project areas. These include, but are not limited to, Professional and Student Staff Selection & Training, Diversity through Inclusive Communities & Education, Project Hilltop Sustainability Team, Educating Residents about Social Equity, Residential Judicial Council, Learning Outcomes & Assessment, Recognition, Alumni Lounge, InterHall, and Living and Learning Communities. The Hall Director position is not compatible with additional full-time employment or graduate work, but is compatible with part-time enrollment in an academic program. Medical students and first-year law students are not eligible for the position because of time and academic demands of those programs. Candidates must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Complete applications should be sent to reslife@georgetown.edu and must include a cover letter, resume and list of three (3) professional references. Job description may be accessed through higheredjobs.com.