By Hunter Mills

Last Wednesday, UDOPCD invited members of the UD community interested in careers in the creative arts to attend a Professional Viewpoints panel. The panelists made for an impressive cast:

• John Buxton (Owner, Shango Galleries, ArtTrak.com, and Buxton Appraisal Authentication and Consulting Services)
• Catherine Cody (Special Events and Volunteer Relations Manager, Dallas Museum of Art)
• Tom Huckabee (Independent Filmmaker and Screenwriting Teacher)
• Kim Kolker (Gallery Director and Office Manager, Shango Galleries; International Society of Appraisers Accredited Fine Art Appraiser)
• Kelly Maher (Senior Video Producer, Cambium Learning Group)
• Sarah Jane Semrad (Marketing and Membership Manager, KXT 91.7) - see our interview with Sarah Jane here

The mood in the Art History auditorium was invigorating as panelists urged the young artists in attendance to stay true to their passion. Throughout the Professional Viewpoints events last week, panelists encouraged students to focus on gaining experience, whether that be an internship, volunteer work, or an entry-level job. While the creative arts panelists certainly agreed that these types of experience are important, there was a greater emphasis on cultivating self-awareness: “Invest in yourself and figure out who you are … you’re not going to show up to an interview and be fabulous if you don’t know who you are,” said Sarah Jane Semrad. The panelists were more likely to suggest taking risks and trying new things with your time in college, rather than a concrete formula of internships and volunteer work. Instead of interning, Semrad told the audience that she used her summers to do “really magical, important things.”

Photo Courtesy of chrissy.farnan

Many of the panelists have had wild careers filled with interesting turns. Kim Kolker began as a teacher, but quickly learned that the profession was not for her. Sarah Jane Semrad’s first job post-college was in a cheese puff laboratory – a job that, according to her, lasted “exactly three weeks.” Kelly Maher’s creative career took a sharp turn into corporate life. She gave students some valuable perspective on career shifts like hers: “Sometimes you take these detours … but you land in a situation where you’re going to be presented with certain experiences [to help your career in art].”  Tom Huckabee recounted the trajectory of his career as a filmmaker in a story that is itself worthy of being turned into a film.

“We didn’t apply for this job. We just invented it.” – Sarah Jane Semrad

For students considering relocating after graduation, John Buxton advised that they connect with museums, galleries, and auction houses as soon as they arrive in their new city. Making face-to-face contact with creative professionals is key. “Immerse yourself and expose yourself to those people and those environments,” urged Kelly Maher. Cathy Cody proposed that a good strategy for making those connections is to use social media in a non-invasive way. For example, young professionals can use LinkedIn to identify commonalities between themselves and people of interest. That opens the door for you to send a brief email that could land you a meeting over coffee. Cody stressed that this type of networking is not about sending out your resume – it’s about building relationships and learning from successful people. Attendees were given a chance to do just that, as the event concluded with the chance to speak one on one with panelists in an informal setting.

Did you attend Professional Viewpoints? What was the most important thing you learned?  Tell us in the comments below!

UDOPCD Morning Minute

Start your day off right with our Morning Minute - a quick intro to one of the exciting job leads we can connect you to this week.  

Today’s pick is:
Teach for America - Assistant to the Executive Director

As the Assistant to the Executive Director, you will make sure the Executive Director is able to work more efficiently by providing critical administrative support, like scheduling, coordinating with staff members and outside contacts, and preparing meeting materials. You will communicate on the ED’s behalf to corps members, alumni, district personnel, high level funders, and Teach For America senior staff. You are organized, fun, have excellent customer service skills, and will report to the Chief of Staff.

Want to learn more? Stop by Augustine 132 or email career@udallas.edu

UDOPCD Morning Minute

Start your day off right with our Morning Minute - a quick intro to one of the exciting job leads we can connect you to this week. 

Today’s pick is:
Holistic Education Institute - Facilitator

The classroom and workshop facilitator possesses expertise in presenting and holding group discussions. The Instructor will indulge participants/students in learning and discussing life and character building skills. The facilitator will be accommodated with curriculum and outline to deliver content. Small groups are guided by the facilitator for the efficient and effective development and achievement of individual and group-proposed objectives. The facilitator must possess the fortitude to cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect between the participants/students.

Want to learn more? Stop by Augustine 132 or call 972.721.5131

Start your day off right with our Morning Minute - a quick intro to one of the exciting job leads we can connect you to this week.  

Today’s pick is:
Lockheed Martin - Subcontract Administrator 

In this position, you will be responsible to support the F-35 Program Mission System procurement team. Tasks include develop subcontract specifications, statement of works, terms and conditions, procurement of specialized materials, equipment and services, prepare bid packages, administration of repair and return contracts, evaluate subcontractor proposals, negotiate subcontracts, issuing properly authorized awards/subcontracts and participating in contract negotiations. Responsible for conducting cost analysis support, understand procurement activity under the guidance of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FARs) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFARS). Occasional travel required.

Apply here. 

Want to learn more? Stop by Augustine 132 or call 972.721.5131

UDOPCD Morning Minute

Start your day off right with our Morning Minute - a quick intro to one of the exciting job leads we can connect you to this week. 

Today’s pick is:
Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy - Secondary Art & Music History Teacher

The mission of Cheyenne Mountain Charter Academy is to help guide students in development of their character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich educational programs. The Secondary Art & Music History Teacher is responsible for developing student understanding of the history of visual arts and music, while expanding their knowledge of Western Culture by infusing cultural and historical characteristics of the time period. 

Want to learn more? Stop by Augustine 132 or call 972.721.5131

UDOPCD Morning Minute

Start your day off right with our Morning Minute - a quick intro to one of the exciting job leads we can connect you to this week. 

Today’s pick is:
AmeriCorps VISTA - Anti-Hunger Organizer

The Texas Hunger Initiative (THI), is looking for potential AmeriCorps VISTA members to serve as organizers/coordinators with local anti-hunger coalitions across Texas. Coordinators will support the functioning of, or help launch, anti-hunger coalitions in Dallas, Ft. Worth, El Paso, Houston, Tyler, Austin, McAllen, San Antonio, Waco, Tyler, El Paso, Lubbock, and Amarillo. THI is looking for individuals who are self-motivated, can work independently, and desire to have a significant, positive impact on ending hunger in the state of Texas. The term of service is June 2014 - June 2015. This is a full-time Americorps VISTA position. 

Want to learn more? Stop by Augustine 132 or call 972.721.5131

From September 16-24^th, UDOPCD will be hosting Professional Viewpoints, a multi-day event that will allow the UD community to explore a number of professional fields. We are honored to announce that Tuesday September 24^th the Heritage Foundation will be joining us for a lecture and Q & A session. This special event will take place in the Gorman Faculty Lounge from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Today, we’d like to devote our blog post to sharing some of the history of the foundation and acquainting you with their work.

INSIDE A THINK TANK

As a conservative think tank located in Washington D.C., the Heritage Foundation works to develop and advance conservative public policies. At the time this blog was written, the foundation’s issues webpage listed federal spending, immigration, Obamacare, and welfare reform as some of the top issues in domestic and economic policy. Founded in 1973, the foundation has developed an impressive donor base, allowing them to operate with an expense budget of more than $80 million. There are currently 275 people employed by the Heritage Foundation, helping to advance their mission of “[formulating and promoting] conservative public policies based on the principles of free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values, and a strong national defense.”

SOUND LIKE SOMETHING YOU WANT TO BE A PART OF?

The Heritage Foundation boasts a strong internship program with opportunities for young conservative leaders in both public policy and business. The breadth of their program provides young people from many academic disciplines with the chance to gain valuable professional experience. With positions in Washington D.C. available beginning in the fall, spring, or summer, there are options to appeal to students no matter their schedule.

Online, the Heritage Foundation’s Young Leaders Program Facebook Page acts as a type of virtual think tank with more than 6,500 fans who can interact with one another regardless of their physical location. If going to Washington D.C. isn’t in your immediate future, consider becoming a part of their online community.

Check out this video for more insight into the Heritage Foundation internship program & be sure to come hear from them in person September 24th!

RSVP to the event and like our page on Facebook to stay up to date on the latest information concerning the Heritage Foundation Organization Spotlight at Professional Viewpoints!

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By Hunter Mills

Last Wednesday, the OPCD hosted its first event this semester: Practical Action. Representatives from a number of leading organizations were present to recruit students for volunteer, internship, and employment positions. Dr. Sally Hicks provided information on prestigious scholarships and fellowships, such as the Fulbright Grant and the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, while hot coffee and cookies helped stave off the cold as students lined up to get headshots taken for their LinkedIn profiles.

Below, I’ve put together some highlights from the event. Let us know how you are taking action by following us on Twitter and using #MyPracticalAction.

VOLUNTEER

We’ve said it before – giving back to your community is incredibly important. Both the Girl Scouts of America and the Nasher Sculpture Center have openings for volunteers looking to make a difference. Representing the Girl Scouts, Zakiyyah Kitab emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering girls to succeed in every aspect of their lives. They are currently looking for women to volunteer as Senior Advisors for the BFF (Best Friends First) anti-bullying program.

From the Nasher, UD alum Ester Ippolito expressed a desire to reach out to UD Art Majors, giving them a foot in the door to the museum world. About working for a nonprofit, Ester said, “The best way to get a job in a nonprofit is to be seen working in a nonprofit.” She encouraged students to volunteer at the nonprofits they care about as often as possible. The museum is currently recruiting interns and volunteers.

INTERN

Internship opportunities abound! Even better, everyone that I spoke with expressed a willingness to hire qualified students from any major. Talent and commitment trump field of study. Arrow-Magnolia, for example, is looking for sales and marketing interns. Brook Sims, the recruiter I spoke with, noted that students who do well during their internship have an excellent chance of employment.

Reading & Radio Resource is a small organization that creates audio versions of printed materials and description of the performing arts (such as performances at the Winspear Opera House). Students with an interest in broacasting, disability studies, or journalism are encouraged to apply for an RRR internship – six different programs are available and can be tailored to suit your schedule. While RRR is a small organization, their representative noted that the small size allows interns to contribute in a substantial way.

WORK

Full and part time opportunities are available for UD students and alumni. Undergraduates with an interest in education should consider becoming a tutor with Kumon. Math and English tutors are needed for grades K-12 on a part time basis – perfect for students balancing a busy schedule. Cuc Liang from Mitsui Bussan Logistics, Inc. spoke with me about her company’s need for full time employees and interns. Current openings include a full-time Business Coordinator as well internships in IT and operations.

STUDY

Dr. Sally Hicks met with students to discuss prestigious scholarship and fellowships. These programs include research grants and scholarships for graduate study. Dr. Hicks also shared information about opportunities available for international students. Serious students with an excellent academic record (GPA of 3.7 or higher) who have an interest in these programs may contact Dr. Hicks via email.

Were you at Practical Action? What connections did you make? How can we help you take your next step? Let us know in the comments, and follow the conversation using #MyPracticalAction