Career Roadmap
Arlen's work combines: Engineering, Technology, and Problem Solving
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Analy High School
Bachelor's Degree
Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia
San Jose State University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Network and Computer Systems Administrators:
High School
Bachelor's Degree: Computer and Information Sciences, General
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
First I worked manual labor jobs, but soon realized I had talents that needed to be encouraged.
2.
Made sure to stay in school regardless if I knew what I wanted to do or not.
3.
Took classes to learn basic web skills, and realized I was having fun doing what I liked.
4.
Took a risk and transfered to San Jose State to join their Graphic Design Program.
5.
Realized that my technical training enabled me to use computers as medium to create Art.
6.
Used my success at school as a jumping board to launch my career as an engineer.
7.
Climbed the ladder in my organization to become one of the Senior most members of my team.
8.
Realizing the road never ends, this is just a mile marker as I continue to find myself and my path.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Society in general:
You should get a job that pays you now. You should not focus on artistic occupations. Jobs are not supposed to be fun, they are supposed to pay the bills.
How I responded:
While it is important to pay the bills, sacrificing your inner peace has a cost far greater than satisfying a debt collector. Be true to your self, find your passion and never let go. We still may need to compromise what we want to do for what we need to do, but never let go of what makes you, you. The satisfaction of accomplishing a personal goal is just as, if not more, powerful as accomplishing a professional goal. You really win when both are satisfied by doing the same thing.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
In someways coming from meager beginnings reduces the opportunities presented to us, but in other ways it gives us a greater appreciation when they do come our way. Even small opportunities can be the key to success, don't overlook the small things.
The influence of your peers is one of the most powerful persuasions we endure. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to do your best, and find inspiration to be better from those who don't.