March 08, 2007
How Practical Is Your Career Path?
Today we welcome Shanti Aaron, guest facilitator.
During the past week, each student in the eLearning course, "Online Networking as a Job Search Tool," has been exploring practical career paths for those of us with disabilities. It's evident that we have put a great deal of time and thought into this online discussion.
For the most part, we have presented ideas which are nicely structured and clearly presented.
For example, eLearner Alicia wants to:
"...Investigate fields which may reframe my knowledge of disability, technology, and/or writing. I have spent the months since my graduation looking for a job in disability and technology, since that was the goal I was working toward during my five years of educational work.
"However, it may be time for me to investigate writing as a source of income. I already write book reviews, so perhaps searching for other book reviewing opportunities may be a career path. Also, I have taken technical writing classes in the past and have at least one robust example of technical writing: perhaps I should think about ... creating a writing portfolio. ..."
Fleur, another eLearner, also seeks to reframe her skills:
"...I must authentically believe in what I 'bring to the table.' After taking this 'inventory,' I believe that path would be in a management or (to make it easier to break in) leadership position in broadcast media operations or coordination of operations in any business where that I can transfer the many skills I have developed through my working in tower operations for an airline. (Another option): travel and or travel logistical position for an organization such as the United Nations or a broadcast/media company..."
Through discussions and writings, each of us students has been going through that kind of introspection in exploring potential career tracks in the light of our preferences and strengths.
While doing that, I was struck by the realization that a career is the sum total of life's experiences, a work in progress that's never quite complete but gains depth and meaning over time. You can make yours richer by following your instincts and letting the journey inspire you.
But, each of us also needs to address our limitations in charting our preferred career path; taking into account the barriers we face makes our career path practical.
Please submit your thoughts about this question:
As you clarify your career path, what is the greatest barrier you expect to encounter in pursuing such a path, and how can you overcome this barrier?
Posted by Shanti Aaron at 02:51 PM | Comments (9)