Informational Interviews

Melissa J. Horr

The Hills

“For the first time in my life, I really don’t know (what’s next)” –Lauren Conrad

Three Lessons LearnedThe importance of reevaluating a career every 3-5 years.

Bill AndersonDir. City Planning & Community InvestmentThe City of San DiegoWhy? Interest in Public Policy from City of Quincy Internship in Planning Dept

The motivation of a career should be helping people.Douglas CampionConsumer LawyerLaw Offices of Douglas CampionWhy? Interest in Business Law; Convenience of Meeting at an on-campus concert

The chance temporary jobs give to move up. MargaritaStore ManagerPink ZoneWhy? Interest in General Management

The importance of reevaluating a career every 3-5 years.

Bill Anderson, Dir. City Planning & Community Investment, San Diego

Senior VP of Economics Research Association (ERA)

Real estate developmentPublic policy TourismEconomic developmentEntertainment & leisure

23 yrs experience at ERA350 assignments 21 states 8 countries

Anderson’s Opinions Offered

As a Harvard Masters Graduate, said Boston is a great place to learn!Degree in City Planning is more beneficial than a broad study of EconomicsThe collaboration with other disciplines such as architecture, urban design, environment, & transportation makes this career interesting!

Anderson’sRecommendations

Talk to a lot of peopleAsk a lot of QuestionsGet involved in Planning AdvocacyGain work experience at community level, ie: Development Corporation Consultant Travel a lotUnderstand how communities work

The motivation of a career should be helping people.

Douglas Campion, Consumer Law Professional, Law Offices of Douglas Campion (30 years)

Campion’s Counsel

Be excited about helping peopleStory about class action suit

Importance of being involved in his children’s lives

Story about being involved in Cub Scouts and Coaching Baseball

Benefit of a law degree: Trained to be a problem solver

Can help in a corporate career

The chance temporary jobs give to move up.

Margarita, Store Manager, Pink ZonePrevious Restaurant ExperienceHired for Seasonal Help at Halloween Opened the store in downtown as store manager; later opened a second store; then returned to Pacific Beach storeDesire to be a teacher

Margarita’s Guidance

Con: Pink Zone has a high turnover rate, limited training, and no benefitsPro: Enjoyable, flexible & laid back jobDesirable Employee Personality Traits:

FriendlyWillingness to helpListens well

Customer Service can be tough but always be happy and smile!

Final Thoughts

“I just don’t think I could make a career out of something I wasn’t passionate about… I’d rather have a career based on something that makes me happy.” – Lauren Conrad

Reevaluate my career every 3-5 yearsBe motivated by helping othersAllow temporary jobs to help me move up!