MEET JESSE! He graduated from UNT with a degree in Media Arts in May of this year. Keep reading to learn a bit more about his role as a mentor with High School Career Connect.
When you started at UNT, what were your plans after graduation? How have these plans changed (if at all)? When I first started at UNT I was not entirely sure of my post-graduation plans. I knew that I was interested in working with sports in some way whether it be writing or pursuing sports radio. These plans have not really changed but they have definitely evolved. I am still interested in sports given that I am currently interning at the sports radio station The Ticket, but my love of film has grown and I’m now very interested in being a writer/director for films.
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 other students is to get involved in networking situations as soon as possible when you feel ready. Whether it’s getting involved in organizations on campus or going out of your way to attend industry events in your desired field, they all provide important experience and help to increase your confidence. I would have gotten more involved trying to network if I could start over from the beginning of my college experience. Reaching out to people in hiring positions or those you admire in the industry you want to pursue is always a good step to take and never shy away from some professional persistence.
How did your program at UNT help you to feel prepared for this role? The media arts program increased my confidence in talking to people I don’t know very well, which is a very important skill to have when you are a peer mentor due to the fact that you have to speak with many students, teachers, and counselors in an informative and professional manner.
How did you find your current role (website, email, word of mouth, etc)? I found my current role as a peer mentor at High School Career Connect through Handshake.
What was the toughest interview question they asked you? The toughest question they asked me was “What is your biggest weakness?” You don’t really start thinking about everything you’re kind of bad at until someone asks you what you aren’t very great at. I know what my weaknesses are, but you don’t want to talk about how awful you are at an interview, so you have to think about how those weaknesses might actually be a strength in some situations or how you can improve in those areas.
How did the Career Center help you? The Career Center works closely with High School Career Connect so they have helped us facilitate our duties.
Want to hear more of Jesse’s story? Check out his testimonial video!
You can see more testimonials like Jesse’s here.
Would you like to be featured in our Soaring Beyond Success Series? Email Jeanette Hickl. We’d love to share your story!
