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Raquel Sojourner

Career Counselor

“Everything you’ve ever wanted is one step outside your comfort zone.”

Education:

• M.A. in Counseling Psychology
• B.A. in Sociology, Minor in African American Studies

Interesting fact:

I did a college internship at a non-profit organization run by the man who invented Hot Pockets.

Tip: Internship searching is all about YOU.

Where do you want to work? What do you want to do? Who fits your professional preferences?

Just like you would read a course description and look online for professor reviews to make sure a class is right for you, it is extremely important to put the same amount of thought into choosing your internship. Not all jobs or companies are created equal and therefore you should make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before interviewing or accepting an internship offer.

Take the time to go online and research companies before you go in for the interview. Think about the type of duties you’d like to do on a daily basis, what skills you’d like to gain, the geographic location that you’d like to be in and the type of people you’d like to work with and around.

Be more aware of the criteria you are looking to fulfill in your internship and take the time to compare that with what a company has to offer you. This will lead you to have a more meaningful experience.

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mary Garcia

Career Counselor

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Education:

• M.Ed. in Counseling (Education)
• B.A. in Sociology

Interesting fact:

I started my community college career at the age of nineteen as a student ambassador, and now I’m living my dream as a Counselor.

Tip: Get comfortable being uncomfortable.

Move out of your comfort zone. Be willing to step outside of what makes you comfortable, whether it’s with your personal life or with your career. Be open to new opportunities and take risks, there will always be something to learn and through that growth occurs.

It’s important to be able to step outside of what makes you feel safe and comfortable and be challenged with something new. That challenge will enable you to gain new perspective, knowledge, and experience that you can apply anywhere. The sooner you begin to embrace this concept, the better. Challenge yourself to get some work experience while you’re in college. While formal education is vital to your career goal, so are the skills that you gain through related work experience and internships. It can be difficult to manage a full school load and work; however, what you learn through that experience will be so valuable, and it will set you apart from your peers. Remember, your degree can grant you the interview but coupled with your experience, it may award you the job!

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Shawn Fawcett

Career Counselor

“If you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you can dream it, you can become it.”
-William Arthur Ward

Education:

• M.S. in Educational Counseling
• B.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications, Minor in Personality and Social Psychology

Interesting fact:

I never actually worked in the field of my major and it’s worked out great for me! I found my passion in education and counseling students. Your major doesn’t have to be forever, but your educational experience will open doors.

Tip: Find your passion; set no limits.

The opportunities in higher education are endless. College is the perfect time for you to explore yourself and find your interests. Success has no limits, but it doesn’t happen without a leap of faith and hard work. Your future is created by the decisions you make today. Don’t let your fear of failure prevent you from achieving greatness.

Whatever you do, find the one thing you’re passionate about, and turn that into a career that you can be proud of and makes an impact on the world. Your education is crucial, but be mindful of your experiences outside the classroom as they are just as important in finding a job. Student orgs, internships, and volunteer activities allow you to gain the transferable skills to make you a valuable employee. Prepare for your career by getting involved on campus, utilizing resources, and recognizing your passion. An internship is a perfect way to involve yourself in your career path by challenging yourself to change and ensuring that you love what you do. Dream big and never let anything stand in your way. Belief in yourself is the first step!

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CAMILLE HARRIS

Career Counselor

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Management
• Master of Arts in Educational Counseling with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential
• Certificate in College Counseling
• Certificate from the San Diego & Imperial County College Association (SDICCCA) Internship
• Doctorate (Anticipated 2017) in Educational Leadership

Interesting fact:

I have been working on my doctoral degree and am near the end of the road to finish this year!!! Yay!

Tip: Getting the most out of your internship is important.

“You may not know the best career choice for you right now.” However, an internship allows you to explore a career you are interested in or curious about. These opportunities can help you figure this out and decide what is best for you. Do some research about the profession, the company, and network with family and friends. Contacting the alumni department to make connections for you can also be helpful. Bottom line is to investigate, research and ask questions. This is your future and an opportunity to explore before you enter the world of work.