Today, we sit down with Becca Wilson, an NKU Haile College of Business alumna, Haile Research Fellow, and current employee at 3CDC.
In this conversation, Becca shares her experiences navigating the transition from college to the professional world and how the Haile Fellows Program opened up new career paths she would never have considered otherwise (03:10). She emphasizes the importance of reflection for personal and professional growth (10:24). She offers valuable advice on building a solid support system to tackle the challenges of post-graduate life (27:36).
Becca's story is one of embracing opportunities, even in the face of uncertainty. She discusses the paradox of choice when presented with multiple career paths (34:48) and shares her framework for distinguishing between reversible and irreversible decisions (37:13). Her journey is a testament to the value of exploring diverse experiences before committing to a specific career path (41:26).
As a Haile Fellow herself, Becca offers guidance to current program participants, encouraging them to connect with alumni, be confident in their strengths, and lean into their passions (48:49). She also shares her thoughts on the importance of having a growth mindset (14:52) and fostering a supportive and curious environment within the program (50:49).
This episode is for anyone navigating their career journey or seeking to impact their community positively. Becca's story is one of resilience, growth, and the power of mentorship.
I invite you to listen to this engaging conversation and share your thoughts. As always, we appreciate your support and feedback as we continue to bring you valuable content and inspire meaningful discussions.
Key Takeaways:
(03:10) Becca credits the Haile Fellows Program for opening up new career paths and opportunities she wouldn't have considered otherwise, like working in a nonprofit organization
(10:24) Reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth; Becca suggests having verbal discussions to process reflections and share with others for support and guidance
(20:47) Transitioning from college to a full-time job can be challenging, especially adjusting to a consistent work schedule and maintaining optimal brain function through proper sleep and nutrition
(27:36) Building a strong support system and staying connected with peers who are going through similar experiences can help navigate the challenges of post-graduate life
(32:26) When faced with multiple career options, prioritize moving forward and learning what you don't like; choose opportunities with managers who invest in your growth and development
(39:15) Becca believes her future lies in academia but values her current experiences in the business world to develop her beliefs and collide with new ideas
(48:49) Advice for current Haile Fellows: connect with alumni, be confident in your strengths, take on new opportunities even if you're unsure, and lean into your passions
Discussion Topics:
(14:52) The importance of having a growth mindset and seeking feedback from others
(34:48) Navigating the paradox of choice when presented with multiple career paths
(37:13) Distinguishing between reversible and irreversible decisions to alleviate pressure and embrace growth opportunities
(46:14) Identifying optimal stress levels and communicating with managers to prioritize tasks effectively
(50:49) Fostering a supportive and curious environment within the Haile Fellows Program to encourage vulnerability and personal development.
(41:26) The value of exploring diverse experiences before committing to a specific career path or educational journey