Eric Hernandez
College and Career Specialist
Cypress Fairbanks ISD
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
Military right out of high school. I knew I wasn't ready for college and didn't want to waste time. If felt like 4 years in the Army would allow me to grow and give me time to figure it out my path.
Deciding to leave the Army. They make it hard to leave. They entice you with bonus money and allowing you to choose your next duty station as well as potentially changing jobs.
Taking a job at the local community college while in college. Provided me scheduling flexibility and knowledge and contact for future employment.
After teaching for 3 years, I wasn't happy and could not change jobs to support my family. I decided to attend grad school to pursue counseling. It was extremely difficult.
Grad School while teaching. I averaged 4 hours of sleep for 2.5 years, but was present with my family and excelled in my studies.
College and career job! Perfect job to fit all of my needs and wants out of a profession.
Wife unhappy with IKEA job wants to go back to school to be an Art teacher. I now work at a high school 7-3pm and am advising at a college 4-8pm to make the bills and support her in college.
I'll be working 12 hours a day for the next 3-4 years, but the part time job is paying into my retirement, and it's super flexible and not very demanding. It's time away from family but will work out.
Education
High School
Caney Creek High School
Caney Creek High School
Career
College and Career Specialist
Provide large group instruction on all aspects of college planning and assisted with various college programs.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Technology
Education
Helping People
Day to Day
Typically, I answer emails from students, parents, teachers, college representatives, and community members on various topics on college and career. I spend a lot of time planning events for targeted groups of students, then implement the event. I record informational videos and post them on YouTube for my school. I also work with other coworkers at other high schools to plan large scale district events relevant to the current college culture.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Get your 4 year degree and teach. Get your graduate degree and seek out opportunities to assist counselors, or college and career advisors to gain informational experience. Research college admission requirements and visit colleges.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Parents:
"Getting an education takes too long. It's time you could be making money for your family."
Challenges I Overcame
Family
