MEET WILBERT! Wilton graduated in May 2019 with a double major in Spanish and Communication Studies and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership while working at the Undergraduate Admissions office at UNT.
When you started at UNT, what were your plans after graduation? How have these plans changed (if at all)? When I started at UNT, my plan was to go straight into education and get a masters in Educational Leadership so that I could later become a principal after teaching a couple of years. Fast forward to now, and I work at the undergraduate office of admissions at UNT and I’m in my third accelerated semester of my masters program. Although, my professional goal didn’t change, my path to getting there did, and it’s totally ok.
What advice do you have for prospective or current students as they decide what they want their next steps to be (internships/careers/etc.)? My advice to prospective or current students is to find something that sets your soul on fire whether it’s an internship, nonprofit, or job, and pour your whole heart into it. Whenever you’re passionate about something, you will develop a work ethic that is unstoppable and push yourself out of your comfort zone. These actions will help you mature and gain confidence so you can tackle any obstacle that comes your way. In addition, enjoy the process so you can look back and be proud of how far you’ve come.
How did your program at UNT help you to feel prepared for this role? I was a double major in Communication Studies and Spanish, both great departments that built confidence in me and challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. Through the Communication Studies department, I was able to practice my public speaking skills and learn from a diverse group of faculty and students who are driven and encouraged me to become better in every form. The Spanish Department helped connect me back to my roots, and learn more about my first language. Because the Spanish department is big on traditions, I am now more competent in interacting with students and families who come from different cultures. Both programs encompassed practical discourse that in my personal and professional life.
How did you find your current role (website, email, word of mouth, etc)? Well, I was an Eagle Ambassador throughout my undergrad and we worked closely with the freshmen admissions officers. I heard about my position through the connections I had in that office.
What was the toughest question you were asked in the interview? Toughest question I had was: “What are some goals you have in mind if you were to be hired”? Personally, I thought this was hard because it’s difficult to think that far ahead when all you’re focus is on getting hired.
How did the Career Center help you? The Career Center is a great resource we have. I took advantage of the mock interviews because it helped prepare me for the type of questions that the employer may ask and gave me tips on posture, presentations, and professional appearance in general. Knowing that you have a group of people that wants to see you get that job and builds confidence in you is comforting.
Would you like to be featured in our Soaring Beyond Success Series? Email Jeanette Hickl. We’d love to share your story!
