What are your job responsibilities/duties?
I run a boutique recruiting firm who connects college students and grads with internship and entry-level job opportunities in Chicago and nationwide. I work with the top companies and create lasting partnerships so that each candidate has the assistance they need to grab their dream job. I specialize in the fashion, events, public relations, marketing and social media fields.
What does a typical day look like?
Running a business; there is no typical day. I work from home or coffee shops and I love people watching and being inspired by the world around me. I am always grateful for what I have created over the past 3 years and to finally take it full-time is a dream come true. Being your own boss is the best thing possible but you have to stay motivated constantly!
What do you most enjoy about your job?
I enjoy the success stories and being able to help students who don't have the resources they need to go into their dream field. While they may have a career resource center, sometimes if they want to enter a field that may not be well-connected to by the university, they need professional outside help who constantly maintain partnerships and relationships with the best companies.
What is the most difficult aspect of the job?
Keeping everything balanced! Living life, having time for family and friends, staying motivated and inspired and keeping up with the day to day of running a business
What on-campus activities were you involved with? Where did you gain relevant experience?
AAF and panhellenic. I feel as though I truly created everlasting relationships through AAF and an everlasting friendship circle through my sorority. College wouldn't have been the same without these experience.
How did your experience at ILLINOIS and in the College of Media prepare you for your professional life? For this specific position?
I feel as though because I wanted to go into fashion editorial I was challenged and these challenges pushed me to truly go for my dreams and use every resource, network and professional I knew to get there.
What advice do you have for students interested in this field?
Keep trying, gain experience, interview everywhere and build that resume.
What is one thing that you know now that you wish you had known when you started in the field? When you graduated from the College?
I wish I would have known how much I would enjoy life as a professional. When you're a junior or senior, it's all stress about that last internship or the job offer. ENJOY college. It will happen and you will look back, smile and be grateful.