Carreer Fair

4.      Career Services write-up: Career Fair

I went to the Career Fair in February that was open to all majors. I spoke to big companies like Target, Vanguard, and some government employees as well. I had a couple of target companies that I made sure to reach out to. However, I made sure to also walk around and talk to companies to just get general info with.

What was really surprising was that there were so many sales recruiters. I was a little scared that my major was too specialized and that not many employers would be looking for a Public Service and Policy student, but as it turns out most companies are just interested in you having a degree in general. It seems that the focus is not on what major you studied but more so the kind of leadership qualities and critical thinking skills you developed on the way. This was a huge relief because as I reflect more and more, I have learned that the only real “Public Service” job I am really interested in is a job in law enforcement. Now, I realize I probably should have pursued criminal justice instead but I really enjoyed my coursework. I am excited to explore other career opportunities besides that of a police officer just in case my hiring process is delayed. The career fair helped open my eyes to the variety of opportunities that are out there.

New Car

2.      Free Write: New Car

I have had a GMC truck since I was old enough to drive. I loved having a big truck but lately I have wanted to upgrade what I am driving. My girlfriend’s family is selling their 2009 Lexus sedan and are going to be giving me a really great deal on it. I have had to wait for a couple of months now though as they shop for another car.

So in the mean time I posted my truck on craigslist and the interest that I received was a lot greater than I expected. I ended up getting a couple of offers so I sold my car rather quickly. For now, I am driving a sedan that my parents let me borrow but I am really eager to get into something new. Whats making things even more complicated is that I have been really looking into Jeeps lately. I had never considered them before but it seems like they are kind of a hybrid between Truck and a smaller car. What's surprising is how much they hold their value! I was looking at a 2006 Jeep that was selling for almost 25K! I might just stay with the Lexus, but I don’t want to regret not getting the Jeep! We will see what happens.

Anytown Strengths

1.      What are the strengths of your organization? If you were in charge of a similar organization, are there any things you would do differently?

One of the major strengths of Anytown Leadership Camp is that it does not have to have a big infrastructure to make a huge impact. Every year 600 students attend camp and have a life changing experience. I have personally seen camp delegates go back to their communities and become agents of change. Whether they start student clubs within their schools, or are inspired to become part of community action organizations, these young students are inspired by the time they spend at camp.

Now we really only have a working staff of about 12. Most of these staff members are volunteers and run the organization on a part-time basis. Furthermore, the camp counselors who staff the camp are all made up of volunteers who we choose through an application process. Most other non profits require a large infrastructure. and the impact they make is hard to measure. Anytown, however, impacts  the lives of every single student and volunteer who participates.

Graduation

Free Write: Graduation

I have started to plan my graduation for May. It is becoming a bit complicated to plan a big celebration because I have to celebrate with my family in Tucson even though the graduation ceremony will be happening here in Tempe. I am also planning on inviting childhood friends and family friends so I am anticipating a large crowd. What futher complicates things is that I don’t want to put out any of my brothers and sisters by asking them to host. So, I am currently looking for a venue in Tucson.

The past couple of places I have inquired as of yet are either too small or out of our price range. So, it seems I am going to have to ask someone to host. Either way, I am definitely excited to graduate and am even trying to schedule time with a professional photographer. I am eager to start my professional life. I am also filled with a sense of anxiety because so much is unknown as of right now. I am not sure if I will get into the police academy and the other jobs I have applied to have not given me any definite offers. I can only hope that everything will work out for the best, and am excited to embark on a new journey.