Education

A Day In the Life of a Director of Development

Build relationships with donors (lunches, galas, events, emails, phone calls), maintain a database (office work), work with students (workshops and one on one), fundraise and network. 

Educational Pathway

I got a BS in Business - Entrepreneurship in college. It was generalized enough that it lent to this experience. I am currently working on a Masters in Organizational Leadership (graduating Dec 24). Although not direct - business and leadership apply to almost any career. 

Characteristics/Skills/Inspiration

Working for a non profit is passion work. I needed meaningful work. To work for a non profit you need to be passionate for a cause. You need to be able to build and maintain relationships. You need a high Emotional Intelligence. You can learn the programs and tasks, anyone can. 

Pros and Cons 

The pro is that every day and hour is different, and that it is so fulfilling. You build relationships that become friendships and you get to help others. There really aren't many cons. A lot of non profits don't pay competitively but I have found in Monterey Bay that is less true. 

Biggest Challenge Faced In Getting Where They Are Today - How did they overcome it?

I didn't know what I wanted to do. I slowly discovered my path through serendipity, following my heart, and hard work. I started at the bottom and worked my way up. As a female, it took longer than I hoped, but it still happened and is continuing to happen. It is difficult as a young female to be taken seriously or to be seen in a high level role. I oftentimes dressed more professionally than others, prepared more, and worked harder to be taken seriously. But I did it and it was worth it. 

Advice For One Pursuing this Career

Start volunteering for non profits now. Think about what you care about (foster youth? education? hospice care? animals?). Volunteer for those non profits. Focus on service to others. 

Extra Notes/Interesting Facts

As a professional fundraiser you get to attend all kinds of fun ceremonies, galas, events, luncheons and more! 

A Day In the Life of a Theatre Service Manager

Provide movies requested by professors teaching cinema classes at University of Southern California, and supervise a team of projectionists. 

Educational Pathway

I have been a technician, programmer, project manager, and audio-visual specialist.  After high school I completed an AS degree in Computer Technology.  Mid-career, I completed a BA in Digital Media Arts.  After many years as a technician, I moved to my current role, which is more operational and involves the management of many processes that ensure the success of our mission. 

Characteristics/Skills/Inspiration

I work well with people, and enjoy managing an environment that thrives on consistency, but also benefits from occasional innovation.  My technical skills help too.  I didn't know I'd be a fit for this career, but over time tried different things until I found the most enjoyable path. 

Pros and Cons 

Pros: the university campus is beautiful.  Large organizations are stable during economic turmoil.  I see a lot of movies.  It's fun to be around students who are energetic and working toward their careers. 

Cons: As a technician, my pay was sometimes low.  Education may not be an exciting environment for some people.  

Biggest Challenge Faced In Getting Where They Are Today - How did they overcome it?

I was too timid with my career choices.  When I was young I should have spent less, stayed out of debt, and taken more chances on different jobs and industries.  Once my finances became secure, I eventually did that. 

Advice For One Pursuing this Career

Take your life and your career choices seriously.  Ask for help from mentors.  Don't get discouraged or stressed if you're not sure what to do.  Try things, change things, and bring your best, most honest self to each situation.  Avoid debt when possible so you have more flexibility when making life choices.