Samantha Kimmel
Texas OnCourse
Austin, TX USA
"Be open to new learning opportunities and be okay with working your way from the bottom up."
Career Roadmap
Samantha's work combines: Education, Writing, and Helping People
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Houston Christian High School
Bachelor's Degree
English Language and Literature, General
College of Charleston
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Program Coordinator - High School:
Bachelor's Degree: English Language and Literature, General
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
I chose my college because it was located near the beach. Although I wouldn't recommend that route to everyone, I'm so grateful for the decision I made and its impact on my education and future.
2.
I almost failed out of college my freshmen year. I suffered from mental health problems and couldn't cope with my newfound independence. Luckily, I found my rhythm and started earning straight As.
3.
After college, I moved to Austin on a whim. Again, not a choice I would necessarily recommend, but it worked for me! I've been in Austin for over 9 years and am so happy to feel "home."
4.
I spent my early 20s caring for my father after he was diagnosed with cancer. It put my career plans on hold but also taught me the importance of family and interpersonal connections.
5.
I wasn't sure how to get into the field of education, so I started volunteering with a local nonprofit. Here, I found my passion for teaching and for working with students in general.
6.
My volunteer role led to a full time position with the organization. In this role, I ironically found out I did NOT want to teach, but that I did want to advise students on college and career options.
7.
Eventually, I was promoted to manage the college readiness program at the nonprofit organization I once volunteered for. Through this role, realized I love learning and leading others.
8.
Now, I work way more "behind the scenes" than I once did, but I can very clearly see how my prior learning/life experiences got me to where I am today.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Parents:
You shouldn't major in English or philosophy—those majors will never lead to a real career opportunity.
How I responded:
I love learning and studying English, and this made college super enjoyable for me; school was fun because I liked my classes, my professors, and my classmates. My dad criticized my decisions but didn't offer a lot of guidance on alternate steps I could take. I wish I could encourage my younger self to connect with a like-minded mentor who could better help me connect college and career. Now, I finally have a job that combines my skills and learning experience with my interests.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I started college extremely depressed and had a very difficult time going to class or finding the motivation to get out of bed. I turned to drugs and unhealthy coping mechanisms until I found the right counseling and therapy for me.