Career Roadmap
Kiera's work combines: Non-Profit Organizations, Business, and Upholding a Cause and Belief
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Westfield High School
Bachelor's Degree
Sociology, General
University of Mary Washington
Graduate Degree
Social Justice and Intercultural Communication
School for International Training
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Director of Engagement:
Bachelor's Degree: Public Health, General
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
I've taken a lot of twists and turns
1.
As an undergrad I had a focus on International Development. My Senior Year of college, however, I lost my mom to cancer and my focus shifted to staying close to family.
2.
In Grad School, I intended to study and explore Conflict Transformation, but was drawn to Social Change Theory and the exploration of questioning.
3.
In a post grad internship, I worked for the Church, attempting to explore the crossroads of my passion for justice, and the historical trauma often driven by the Church. (Still working on this one!)
4.
As I finished my thesis, I completed a year of service with AmeriCorps VISTA - working with retired and senior volunteers.
5.
With a background spanning international justice, church engagement, and national service, I struggled to define my "work identity". I got a job with a contract temp agency in DC working with NGOs.
6.
An opportunity arose to join the American Cancer Society as an event planner, and a long time volunteer role turned into a job. I grew with this role, building experience and a resume.
7.
An unexpected layoff forced me to evaluate what I loved and did not love from my previous roles. I was able to articulate my strengths, prove my value and understand how diverse work experience sync.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
You get too caught in the weeds.
How I responded:
There are pros and cons to every type of workplace characteristic. I may occasionally get caught up in the tiny details, but it helps me to process through every possible outcome so that my members (or donors, volunteers, event guests, etc.) have the best possible experience when I am leading. You can learn to make every "negative" a foundation for a future strength. Walk through new habits and processes to guide your work so you can overcome digging through those weeds!