BE WHAT
CREEA AT A TE YO YO OU URRS SELF
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I WANT TO BE .COM
Volume 9
2012-2013 -201 013 13
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The Daily Record is proud to partner with the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education for the ninth year to provide an honest look into what you can expect after high school. If you are taking the time to read this magazine, I would venture a guess that you are wondering what opportunities await you and are excited to think about your future. Every generation thinks they have more opportunities than the one before them, but I truly believe you do. You are growing up in a global society, being educated at some of the best schools in the country, with unlimited information at your fingertips and new types of jobs and degrees being created every day. It is a special moment in your life, when you have the opportunity to find the path that will fulfill your goals, leave your mark on the generation that comes behind you and, of course, pay your bills. The best advice I can give you is to do what you love, always work hard and follow your heart. Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve something. Only you can control your future through focus, perseverance and making the right choices. Do you realize that you will probably spend more of your adult life at work than you will with your family? That sounds scary at first blush, but in reality if you follow a path that utilizes your gifts and skills, aligns with your personal values and challenges you every day, you will spend those countless hours truly loving what you do. Life is too short to perform a job that does not make you happy. Right now, while you are still in high school, take the time to commit to the tasks necessary so that you are successful in school. Get involved in an extracurricular activity that interests you. Pick issues that are important to you and learn everything you can about both sides of those issues. Volunteer for a nonprofit to make a difference. Finally, listen to those around you — not negative influences, but the people who truly care about you. If you learn from others’ experiences and open your mind to opportunities, you will find yourself setting out on a path that will lead you to success, personal fulfillment and happiness. We all define success differently, but I believe job success is doing what you are passionate about, having a positive impact on others and taking a stand for what you believe in. If you follow that advice, you will find success in whatever path you choose to take after high school.
High School Courses matter 4 Maryland scholars 6 Setting goals 8 Scholar interview 9 Cost of living 10 Counting down 12 After school 14
College Six degrees 18 Education pays 20 College tuition 22 Paying for college 24 Campus visit 26
Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, Publisher, The Daily Record
Be What I Want to Be is produced by e Daily Record for the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education.
Career eDailyRecord.com
Resumés 30 Growing industries 31
www.mbrt.org info@mbrt.org
Profiles
Special publication design and illustrations by Erin V. Alexander Contributing writers: Amy Burroughs, Gina Gallucci-White, Lisa Schwartz Contributing photographers: Maximilian Franz, Josh Cooper, Steve Ruark
Begin on 36
How to reach us | e Daily Record Subscriptions 1.800.451.9998 | News 410.752.3849 | Advertising 410.752.3849 | Reprints 443.524.8141
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|2| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
THREE Check out fun facts on BeWhatIWantToBe.com.
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High School a place for the thinkers, dreamers and doers. Whenever you are ready to shape the next great ideas in science, technology, math and engineering — we are here for you.
lockheedmartin.com/careers BeWhatIWantToBe.com |3|
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Courses matter . . Choices matter What you do in your four years of high school is important to having a successful future. Colleges and employers ask for high school transcripts because they want to know: ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏
Are you prepared to do college work? Do you have the skills you need to be successful? Will you show up for class or work? Are you reliable? Would you be eager to take on a challenge? Did you take challenging courses?
You want your transcript to shout
This is what your transcript looks like at the beginning of high school. It’s a clean slate. You have the power to make it shine. As you complete courses, pass tests, accomplish tasks and earn awards, you are creating a picture of yourself that tells colleges and employers,
I’m the one you want! |4| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
YES!
to all of those questions.
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Be honest, who would you hire? ❏ The Maryland Scholar with above average grades. ❏ The student with below average grades. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |5|
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Be a Maryland Scholar! Why should I become a Maryland Scholar? How do I qualify to be a Maryland Scholar? Check each box as you take and complete the following courses. Being a Maryland Scholar prepares you for success in college and the workplace.
❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ 4 credits of English ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ 4 credits of Math
(including Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2)
❏ ❏ ❏ 3 credits of Lab Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics*) ❏ ❏ ❏ 3 credits of Social Science
(U.S. History, World History, Government)
❏ ❏ 2 credits of World Language (Must be the same language)
Taking the right courses now will allow you to follow any path you choose.
Students must attain a 3.0 GPA to qualify. Courses bolded in orange are beyond state graduation requirements. *A third lab science may be substituted for Physics. Effective Date: September 2012
H
❏
❏
What’s in it for me? Being a Maryland Scholar can help you to: Get a good job.
Succeed in college.
Qualify for scholarships/grants.
B |6| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
DID YOU KNOW?
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After graduation, students who took rigorous courses in high school earned 13% more in wages than those who did not… whether they went to college or not.
A typical college graduate will earn $1.6 million more over a lifetime than a typical high school graduate.
KPMG LLP, a proud supporter of Be What I Want To Be kpmg.com
College students who complete Algebra 2 in high school are nearly twice as likely to graduate from college as those who do not.
Employers say that high school graduates they hire need the same skills and knowledge that colleges require of incoming freshmen.
90% of the fastest growing professions — and 60% of all current jobs — require postsecondary education.
After they experience the workplace, 70% of high school graduates surveyed wish they had worked harder and taken more rigorous courses in high school.
How to get started.. 2 EASY STEPS ❏ Talk with your family tonight. Let them know of your goal to be a Maryland Scholar.
❏ Talk with your school counselor tomorrow. Your counselor can help to ensure the right courses are on your schedule and keep you on track to becoming a Maryland Scholar.
Take control of your future.
Be a Maryland Scholar.
© 2012 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and the U.S. member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. The KPMG name, logo and “cutting through complexity” are registered trademarks or trademarks of KPMG International. NDPPS 102111
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Set great goals Whatever the mind can conceive and believe the mind can achieve. — Napoleon Hill _________________________________________’s Goal Worksheet
What is a goal?
My goals are
A goal is what you aim or strive to accomplish.
I will do the following to help me reach my goal
I will reach my goal by (date)
Why set goals? Setting goals for yourself lets you get more out of life by deciding who you want to be and what you want to do. It is not just a process to identify your dreams, it helps you achieve them.
How do I set a goal? • Make it SMART! • Be SPECIFIC: What is it that you would like to accomplish? • How will you MEASURE your success? • Is it ACHIEVABLE? What actions will you take? • Set REALISTIC results that you hope to see. • And how much TIME will you give yourself to reach the goal?
Within the next three to five days…
Within the next two weeks…
• Share your goals with a teacher, school
• Review your goals to see if you are
counselor and/or parent/guardian so they can help support you. • Go to www.BeWhatIWantToBe.com, create an account and enter your goals.
on target. • Make adjustments to your goals if needed.
Don’t forget to reward yourself when you reach your goals — |8| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
CELEBRATE!
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The path I am taking Maces Lane Middle School Cambridge, MD June 2007
Cambridge South Dorchester High School Cambridge, MD June 2011
University of Maryland, College Park College Park, MD Majoring in Broadcast Journalism
Tyler
An Interview with a Maryland Scholar
Words of advice • Set goals for yourself! • Complete a career assessment if you are not sure of what you want to do as a career. • Talk with your teachers, especial y your school counselor. • Complete college visits early. • Get involved! I played three varsity sports all four years of high school, was a class officer all four years and volunteered. Doing this helps you qualify for scholarships and gain recognition. • Acquire good study habits - time management is important. • And have fun!
What do you want to do when you graduate from college? I plan to be a sportscaster for a professional team, ESPN or a local TV/radio station. I would also like to be involved in sports recruitment.
What made you want to become a sports journalist? I attended a sportscasting camp at North Carolina State University my sophomore year of high school and had the opportunity to work with college coaches and participate in a playby-play with the Carolina Madcats baseball team.
What has being a Maryland Scholar meant to you? Being a Maryland Scholar was extremely rewarding; I knew I had to complete courses to qualify and maintain a certain GPA. I also
Career Goal Sports Journalist
knew I would have to go above and beyond the normal requirements, but this program helped me set and achieve goals. Through the Maryland Scholar program, I feel that it has also helped me in choosing to attend a Maryland college.
Was it hard to become a Maryland Scholar? No, it was not hard to become a Maryland Scholar. I challenged myself by going above and beyond the minimum class and GPA requirements.
Is there anything that you would have done differently in high school? If so, what would it be? I would have taken more Advanced Placement or dual enrollment courses to earn more college credit before graduating from high school.
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The cost of living Monthly expenses
Will you be able to afford it? Sample salaries (based on 40 hours per week) — minimum wage is $7.25/hour.
Apartment Car payment Car insurance/gas/maintenance Gas/electricity Cell Phone/internet/cable tv Food Entertainment Total
$1,000 300 450 150 200 350 200 $2,650
You could cut out a few things (such as a car and entertainment). Do you really need such a big apartment? What about cooking instead of going to a restaurant?
-
$7.25 hourly
$8.50 hourly
$10.00 hourly
$20.00 hourly
$1,160 monthly taxes
$1,360 monthly taxes
$1,600 monthly taxes
$3,200 monthly taxes
$789
monthly take-home pay
Phone/gas/electricity
200
Food
200
Total
$1,064
Pay Check Pay to the order of
$1,586!! |10| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
$2,176
monthly take-home pay
$406.00
Jane Eyre
Four-hundred six dollars and zero cents
Deductions
Rate 15.00 Gross Pay Statutory Federal Income Tax State/Local Income Tax Social Security Tax Other Health Insurance Net Pay
The above paycheck is for one week of work.
That’s a savings of
$1,088
monthly take-home pay
-
Don’t forget, you still have to pay taxes and for health insurance.
Earnings $600 64
$925
monthly take-home pay
-
Have you considered everything?
Regular
Apartment Bus fare
-
Hours 40
This Period 600.00 $600.00
-102.00 -36.00 -36.00 -20.00 $406.00
Per month Gross wages (x4 weeks) $2,400 Taxes withheld -$408 -$144 -$144 Other Deductions -$80 Net pay $1,624
What are YOU doing to PREPARE yourself to earn a GOOD SALARY?
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Here is what some Maryland jobs pay Occupation
Education
Median Hourly Wage
Median Monthly Wage
Median Annual Wage
Projected Openings in 2020
Pediatrician
Doctoral or Professional degree
$64.75
$10,752
$129,025
220
Lawyer
Doctoral or Professional degree
$48.50
$8,848
$106,175
4,020
Veterinarian
Doctoral or Professional degree
$49.25
$8,450
$101,400
585
Biomedical Engineer
Bachelor’s degree
$43.00
$7,550
$90,600
365
Mechanical Engineer
Bachelor’s degree
$43.25
$7,406
$88,875
2,160
Speech Language Pathologist
Master’s degree
$40.25
$6,938
$83,250
1,130
Nurse (registered)
Associate’s degree
$35.25
$6,350
$76,200
22,020
Accountant/Auditor
Bachelor’s degree
$33.25
$5,760
$69,125
8,305
Writer
Bachelor’s degree
$32.25
$5,540
$66,475
870
Environmental Scientist
Bachelor’s degree
$32.75
$5,210
$62,525
1,150
Teacher
Bachelor’s degree
$30.00
$5,147
$61,758
32,690
Police Officer
High School diploma
$26.50
$4,681
$56,175
6,170
Forensic Science Technician
Bachelor’s degree
$25.75
$4,519
$54,225
250
Administrative Assistant
High School diploma
$25.00
$4,277
$51,325
17,365
Graphic Designer
Bachelor’s degree
$24.25
$4,223
$50,675
2,240
Real Estate Sales Agent
High School diploma
$19.25
$3,683
$44,200
2,050
Carpenter
High School diploma
$20.50
$3,523
$42,275
4,980
Dental Assistant
Certificate
$17.00
$2,823
$33,875
2,220
Fitness Trainer
High School diploma
$15.50
$2,673
$32,075
2,880
Emergency Medical Technician
Certificate
$19.50
$2,573
$30,875
2,325
Retail Sales Person
High School diploma
$10.25
$1,746
$20,950
66,190
Waiter or Waitress
High School diploma
$9.00
$1,529
$18,350
27,295
For more occupations, visit http://www.dllr.state.md.us/lmi/ and click on “2010 to 2020 occupational projections-wage data link.” Or, visit www.BeWhatIWantToBe.com.
When it happens in
Business it’s...
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BeWhatIWantToBe.com |11|
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Countdown to college ❏ Check the box as you complete each step.
8th Grade
9th Grade
10th Grade
❏ Sign up for Maryland Scholars courses in your high school plan. ❏ Start thinking about colleges and careers that interest you. ❏ Take and complete pre-Algebra or Algebra 1. ❏ Work hard and study to get good grades — it will make a difference in your options for high school. ❏ Develop your leadership and citizenship skills; join clubs/activities, play a sport or volunteer.
❏ Check in with your school counselor regularly to discuss goals and plans. ❏ Study, study, study! Colleges look at your transcript beginning with freshman grades. ALL 4 YEARS COUNT! ❏ Ask for help when you need it. ❏ High school sophomores can begin taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Talk to your guidance counselor about which classes are right for you. ❏ Find an extracurricular activity that interests you and join.
❏ Check in with your school counselor to make sure you’re on track with your coursework. ❏ Keep up with classes, assignments and grades. ❏ Continue extracurricular activities and take a leadership role if possible. ❏ Take the PSAT or ACT PLAN tests to be prepared to take the SAT and ACT tests. ❏ Plan enrichment activities for the summer, like summer workshops, internships, apprenticeships and jobs.
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Don’t forget! One of your graduation requirements is 75 service learning hours. Make sure you schedule time to complete them.
11th Grade
12th Grade
❏ Maintain good grades and work to your potential. Junior-year grades are especially important for college admissions. But all four years count. ❏ Take Honors and AP classes. ❏ Register, study and take the SAT or ACT test. ❏ Check out the colleges you are interested in — in person and online. Know their admissions criteria. ❏ Think about scholarships — start early so you can build a record that allows you to qualify. ❏ Make sure you have passed all the High School Assessments. Get help if you haven’t.
❏ Make the most of your senior year. It is important! No time to ease up now. ❏ Take a rigorous math class so you’ll be successful when taking college entrance exams. ❏ Meet with your school counselor and review your transcript. ❏ Know and meet the deadlines to fill out college applications, and start early to write essays and get teacher recommendations. ❏ Submit your college financial aid application (FAFSA) by March 1 — even if you think you don’t need or won’t qualify for financial aid. ❏ Search the web and private groups for scholarships and apply. ❏ Be recognized as a Maryland Scholar. CELEBRATE!
Are you on track? Take our quiz and let us know how you’re preparing!
www.umaryland.edu
Interested in Advanced Placement classes (AP)? Here are some classes that are offered in Maryland at the AP level: Art History Biology AB Calculus BC Calculus Chemistry Computer Science English Language and Composition Environmental Science Modern European History Physics Psychology Statistics United States Government & Politics United States History World History World Language - French World Language - Spanish . . And more
Check with your counselor for a full list of AP courses offered at your school.
The Universtiy of Maryland in Baltimore encourages and supports outstanding achievement in STEM related disciplines for Maryland students.
BeWhatIWantToBe.com |13|
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What do you do
after school?
Challenge yourself at TOWSON UNIVERSITY.
❏ Check extracurricular activities that interest you and take steps to get involved. Joining a team or club can be a lot of fun and a great way to make friends in high school. It can even help you get into a great college — admissions officers like to see extracurricular activities in addition to good grades. Here are just a few examples of what you can do after school.
Academic Clubs ❏ Debate team ❏ STEM clubs such as Robotics. ❏ Future Business Leaders of America ❏ Foreign languages (like the Latin Club) ❏ Honor society ❏ Math team ❏ Mock trial ❏ Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) ❏ Future Educators of America ❏ Yearbook
Find out more at www.towson.edu/ admissions
Arts Clubs ❏ Art ❏ Band ❏ Orchestra ❏ Dance ❏ Theater and drama ❏ Poetry ❏ Chorus or choir ❏ Film and video ❏ Photography
Athletic Teams ❏ Cheerleading squad ❏ JROTC ❏ Sports teams ❏ Step squads |14| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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A Maryland University of National Distinction
? Volunteering All Maryland high school students must perform a certain number of hours of community service to graduate. Fulfill your Service Learning Requirement by doing something you enjoy, whether it’s helping animals, the elderly or the environment! To get started, talk to a teacher, call a local hospital, or religious group, or check out www.volunteermaryland.org. Here are some of the ways you can volunteer and give back to your own community. ❏ Spend your summer building homes
for Habitat for Humanity. ❏ Work with children at a day care center or after-school program. ❏ Assist your local library with community programs. ❏ Collect bottles and cans to raise money for a group and help the environment. ❏ Make get-well cards for hospital patients. ❏ Sort clothes at a thrift store. ❏ Spend time with elderly people at a nursing home. ❏ Tutor other students. ❏ Collect food for your local food bank to help those in need. ❏ Mentor children through the Boys and Girls Club. ❏ Plant flowers and trees at the park. ❏ Walk dogs or play with cats at an animal shelter.
The Princeton Review’s The Best Colleges U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Top 100 “Best Values in Public Colleges” The Princeton Review and U.S. Green Building Council “322 Green Colleges”
www.salisbury.edu 410-543-6000 BeWhatIWantToBe.com |15|
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College
Continue to grow with us. As a global investment management firm, we help people reach their financial goals. Doing that takes all kinds of people with different backgrounds, experiences, and talent. At T. Rowe Price, you can grow. You can strengthen your skills, discover new abilities, and help make a difference—not only for our clients, but in our communities. If you’d like to join us one day, talk with your parents, teachers, and guidance counselors about how to prepare.
To learn more, visit: troweprice.com/careers BeWhatIWantToBe.com |17|
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Six degrees of education Doctoral Degree
Professional Degree
Master’s Degree
Examples: College Professor, Astronomer, or Medical Scientist
Examples: Biotechnologist, Pediatrician, or Lawyer
What is required for a Doctoral Degree?
What is required for a Professional Degree? • It usually takes at least six years of college work. • Academic requirements must be completed to become licensed in careers such as law, medicine or architecture. • Students generally spend four years working on a bachelor’s degree plus another few years on their professional degree.
Examples: Environmental Scientist, Physical Therapist, or Speech Language Pathologist
• The doctorate, or Ph.D., takes at least two full-time years of study, or 30 credits, beyond the master’s degree. • In many cases, however, students need four or five years of study, or 90 credits, after the master’s degree. • Some students earn a master’s degree while getting their Ph.D.
|18| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
What is required for a Master’s Degree? • It usually takes one or two years after earning a bachelor’s degree. • It often requires very specific undergraduate courses. • Many students need to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) to be accepted to a graduate school.
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Bachelor’s Degree
Associate’s Degree
Certificate
Examples: Financial Advisor, Forensic Examples: Dental Hygienist, Registered Nurse, Examples: Electrical Technician, Science Technician, or Graphic Designer or Air Traffic Controller Occupational Therapist Assistant, or EMT What is required for a Bachelor’s Degree? What is required for an Associate’s Degree? • Four or five years of full-time coursework, or 120 credits, are needed. • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees (also known as liberal arts degrees) require courses in art, culture, history, English, social and life sciences and languages. • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees often prepare people for careers in engineering, physical sciences and other technical subjects.
• Two years of full-time coursework, or 60 credits, are needed. • Associate’s degrees are offered by community colleges. • Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) degrees are available. • Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees are for technical or career programs.
What is required for a Certificate? • Certificates can take just a few weeks or up to two years to earn. • They are awarded by community colleges and private career schools. • Also they can be earned by completing job training or even in a high school program.
BeWhatIWantToBe.com |19|
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Education pays More education = Higher earnings and lower unemployment rates. The more you learn, the more possibilities you have. Unemployment rate in 2011
Median weekly earnings in 2011 2.5%
Doctoral degree
2.4%
Professional degree
3.6% 4.9%
$1,665 $1,263
Master’s degree
$1,053
Bachelor’s degree
6.8% 8.7% 9.4%
Associate’s degree
$768
Some college, no degree
$719
High school diploma
14.1%
Less than high school diploma Average 7.6%
$638 $451 Average $797
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey
TEACHER? LAWYER? ENGINEER? NURSE?
Start College Now! It’s never too soon to start thinking about your future. The Community College of Baltimore County offers high school students the opportunity to get a jump start on their college education and career training with our Parallel Enrollment Program (PEP). Juniors and Seniors can enroll in college courses while still in high school. Talk to your parents and guidance counselors to see how you can start getting ready now.
BECOME A CCBC VIP! Request more information and get your own VIP page at
ccbcmd.edu/requestinfo
The incredible value of education. www.ccbcmd.edu
|20| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
$1,551
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Picture yourself spending the next 4 years in this place.
Is it the right school for you? After visiting a few schools, your recollections may start to blur. Be sure to take photos and notes to help you remember the different experiences.
Frostburg State University
— I can snowboard on campus!
Morgan State University — Want to look more into Team Up to Clean Up, a MSU organization to promote campus unity.
Stevenson University
— Keeps on-campus jobs posted online to make it easy for me to find work. — Also, brand new football stadium!
CCBC Essex
— State-of-the-art nursing program.
Towson University
— The university store seemed to have pretty much everything I would ever need for class.
UMBC
— Heard they have lots of dance, music and theater performances that I’d love to see.
University of MD College Park
— The football game was so fun! And a great way to get to know other students. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |27|
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THE VALUE OF
LEARNING MAKES US ALL GROW. Northrop Grumman believes in supporting science and technology through education. Because when you give in the classroom, the whole world benefits. THE VALUE OF PERFORMANCE.
© 2012 Northrop Grumman Corporation
w w w. n o r t h r o p g r u m m a n . c o m
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College tuitions in Maryland Take note: Interested in one or more of these colleges? ❏ Check the box to remind yourself to look into it later. Public Colleges Name
# of Undergrads 2010-11
Tuition & Fees 2012-2013
Location
Website
❏ Bowie State University
Bowie
www.bowiestate.edu
5,608
$7,056
❏ Coppin State University
Baltimore
www.coppin.edu
2,995
$6,077
❏ Frostburg State University
Frostburg
www.frostburg.edu
4,755
$7,436
❏ Morgan State University
Baltimore
www.morgan.edu
5,965
$7,082
❏ Salisbury University
Salisbury
www.salisbury.edu
7,892
$7,700
❏ St. Mary’s College of Maryland
St. Mary’s City
www.smcm.edu
1,960
$15,013
❏ Towson University
Towson
www.towson.edu
15,590
$8,132
❏ University of Baltimore
Baltimore
www.ubalt.edu
3,257
$7,664
❏ U. Maryland – Baltimore County
Catonsville
www.umbc.edu
10,573
$9,466
❏ U. Maryland – College Park
College Park
www.umd.edu
26,826
$8,915
❏ U. Maryland – Eastern Shore
Princess Anne
www.umes.edu
4,280
$6,713
❏ U. Maryland – University College
Adelphi
www.umuc.edu
28,119
$6,646
Location
Website
❏ Capitol College
Laurel
www.capitol-college.edu
❏ Goucher College
Towson
❏ Hood College
Private Colleges Name
# of Undergrads 2010-11
Tuition & Fees 2012-2013
342
$21,337
www.goucher.edu
1,446
$37,640
Frederick
www.hood.edu
1,487
$32,300
❏ Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore
www.jhu.edu
5,038
$46,930
❏ Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore
www.loyola.edu
3,863
$42,426
❏ Maryland Institute College of Art
Baltimore
www.mica.edu
1,863
$40,945
❏ McDaniel College
Westminster
www.mcdaniel.edu
1,600
$36,788
❏ Mount St. Mary’s University
Emmitsburg
www.msmary.edu
1,676
$32,954
❏ Notre Dame of Maryland University
Baltimore
www.ndm.edu
1,296
$30,980
❏ St. John’s College
Annapolis
www.stjohnscollege.edu
450-475
$46,124
❏ Sojourner Douglass College
Baltimore
www.sdc.edu
1,315
$9,650
❏ Stevenson University
Stevenson
www.stevenson.edu
3,200
$25,311
❏ Washington College
Chestertown
www.washcoll.edu
1,400
$39,944
|22| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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Take a Closer Look at Hopkins for your Future
In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility. — Eleanor Roosevelt
Whether your interest is research, teaching or patient care, come feel the rush at Johns Hopkins. Join a team that has made us the #1 hospital in the nation in five specialties.
The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled.
Confidence comes not from always being right but from not fearing to be wrong. — Peter T. McIntyre
— Plutarch
21 YEARS IN
A RO
1991–2011 W
Discover cover the d difference iff ffeerence o off opkins career and visit a Hopkins
Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do. — Peter T. McIntyre
hopkinsmedicine.org/careers
today.
Try and fail but don’t fail to try. — Stephen Kaggwa |28| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
You must never be afraid to go too far. For success lies just beyond. — Marcel Proust
BWIWTB-articles_Layout 1 8/14/2012 6:35 PM Page 23
Community Colleges Name
Location
Website
❏ Allegany College of Maryland
Cumberland
www.allegany.edu
❏ Anne Arundel Community College
Arnold
❏ Baltimore City Community College
# of Undergrads (full & part-time)
Cost per credit hour
Over 4,000
$102
www.aacc.edu
17,957
$97
Baltimore
www.bccc.edu
2,112
$88
❏ Carroll Community College
Westminster
www.carrollcc.edu
4,041
$130
❏ Cecil College
North East
www.cecil.edu
2,700+
$95
❏ Chesapeake College
Wye Mills
www.chesapeake.edu
2,982
$104
❏ College of Southern Maryland
LaPlata, Leonardtown,
www.csmd.edu
9,056
$107
www.ccbcmd.edu
35,498
$106
6,269
$176
Prince Frederick ❏ Community College of Baltimore County
Catonsville, Dundalk, Essex
❏ Frederick Community College
Frederick
www.frederick.edu
❏ Garrett College
McHenry
www.garrettcollege.edu
850
$90
❏ Hagerstown Community College
Hagerstown
www.hagerstowncc.edu
5,000+
$103
❏ Harford Community College
Bel Air
www.harford.edu
9,560
$87
❏ Howard Community College
Columbia
www.howardcc.edu
10,081
$124
❏ Montgomery College
Germantown,
www.montgomerycollege.edu
27,348
$112
Rockville, Silver Spring ❏ Prince George’s Community College
Largo
www.pgcc.edu
11,822
$98
❏ Wor-Wic Community College
Salisbury
www.worwic.edu
5,539
$93
Apprenticeships Name ❏ Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Programs
Website mwejobs.maryland.gov
Number of occupation types More than 230
Don’t see the school you’re intereted in?
How will you afford college?
www.MDgo4It.org www.collegeboard.com www.petersons.com www.princetonreview.com www.search4colleges.com www.usnews.com
Don’t get discouraged; see page 24 for information on paying for college, or scan the code to go to BeWhatIWantToBe.com.
BeWhatIWantToBe.com |23|
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Paying for college The basics It is possible for EVERYONE to go to college. There are many ways to pay for school and to get help paying for it. There are four main types of financial aid students can get:
Grants usually help offset the rising costs of college for families in need of financial assistance. Grants typically do not need to be repaid.
Scholarships generally are given to recognize a student’s academic success, athletic skill or other talent. Scholarships may come with conditions, such as maintaining a certain major or GPA. Scholarships typically do not need to be repaid.
Sources and types of aid include State aid: Guaranteed Access Grant, Educational Assistance Grant, and Legislative Scholarships.
Federal aid: Pell Grant, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Work Study, Direct Family Educational Loan Program, Perkins Loan and TEACH Grant.
Colleges and universities: Schools have a variety of aid that includes grants, scholarships, employment and loans.
Private organizations:
Employers: Many employers
Many clubs, professional organizations and community groups provide scholarships.
also offer tuition assistance for children of employees or tuition reimbursement for employees.
What do I do now to prepare?
Student loans must be
❏ Consider your goals and what education you need to reach them.
repaid, some with interest, after the student graduates or stops going to school. Parents also may take out loans for their children’s education.
❏ View the Maryland Higher Education Commission’s “Student Guide to Higher Education and Financial Aid in Maryland” at www.mhec.state.md.us for information on colleges and universities and programs offered.
Work study is a federal
❏ Take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes during high school. Earn college credits now!
aid program run by colleges that allows students to work to earn money to help pay for school. |24| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
Fi go
❏ Enroll in high level courses while in high school. College isn’t easy. The more you learn in high school, the better you will do in college, and the more college options you will have. Develop good study habits. They’ll help you now and later.
❏ Get involved in school and volunteer activities. Many scholarship programs, especial y private scholarships, look for these activities when selecting students for scholarships. Many clubs and other groups (Girl/Boy Scouts, honor societies, etc.) offer scholarships, some of which you can win before your senior year of high school.
Ch
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Career I know where I’m going. I plan to get there first.
Sumer Rohrs, six-time NCAA National Champion, hurdles
If you have dreams, going to college is the best way to make them come true. FROSTBURG STATE UNIVERSITY can help. t What are your interests? FSU has over 40 majors to choose from. t Many scholarships are offered to Maryland high school graduates. t Internships give you the experience of working in a real setting. t If you want to travel, FSU can help you study in other countries. t Do you have a hobby? Do you play a sport? Make your special interest a part of your college life. If you have questions about college – Can I get in? Can I afford it? Should I go? – answers can be found at Way2GoMaryland.org.
For more information or Open House dates, call 301.687.4201 or click on www.frostburg.edu
BeWhatIWantToBe.com |29|
FA F S A
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What is it? FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal
Scholarships
Student Aid. The data on your FAFSA is used to determine if you are eligible for financial aid from federal and state aid programs and financial aid programs offered by colleges and universities. There is no charge to file the FAFSA so PLEASE do not pay for assistance in completing the FAFSA. If you cannot file an electronic FAFSA or need help in completing the form, contact your high school Guidance Office and/or college Financial Aid Office.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of scholarships available. There is more than $100 million of scholarship money available from the state of Maryland alone. Other scholarships are offered by individuals, corporations and foundations and can be searched for on the Internet or researched in your school’s guidance office or college center.
When & how do I file for it? The FAFSA should be filed during the spring semester of your senior year between Jan. 1 and March 1. This will ensure you are considered for most types of financial aid. To file online go to http://www.fafsa. gov/. Both you and your parents must apply for a personal identification number (PIN) to sign your online FAFSA. This can be done when you file your FASFA. You will need federal income tax information for the last tax year for both you and your parents. To ensure you do not miss the deadline, estimates can be used at first; however, a corrected FASFA must be submitted once tax returns are complete.
Find out how much aid you might qualify for, go to www.fafsa.gov or scan the code.
How much does college cost?
College is more than just tuition and fees — so START SAVING NOW. Other things you may need to pay for include: • Food and housing • Health insurance • Lab fees for certain courses • Transportation expenses to go home on weekends or holidays or to commute to campus
• Books and other supplies like notebooks, folders, computers, calculators, etc.
• Other personal expenses such as laundry, groceries, entertainment, etc.
Good sites to visit mhec.state.md.us waytogomaryland.org fafsa.ed.gov fastweb.com finaid.org studentaid.ed.gov collegeboard.com collegeanswer.com petersons.com easfaa.org supercollege.com mdgo4it.org
Check out page 22 to see how much tuition in Maryland is!
Many scholarships require you to write an essay and/or submit letters of recommendation. There are scholarships out there for everyone, including specific rewards for: • People who are the first in their family to go to college • Women • Men • Ninth, 10th, 11th or 12th-graders • People with specific ethnic backgrounds • People going into specific areas of study • People with volunteer experience • People with disabilities • People involved in clubs • People with special talents • People whose parents hold certain jobs • People whose parents are in the military
10 tips on paying for college
• Start saving for college early. • Work with high school counselors to find scholarships or search the internet on your own. • Make sure you know, and meet, deadlines for financial aid. • Earn college credit in high school by taking AP or concurrent enrollment classes. • Lessen costs by starting at a nearby community college and living at home. • Earn your degree faster by taking summer courses online or at a community college. • Save money by taking more classes - at some colleges you can take 15 credit-hours at the same cost as the minimum 12 credit-hours. • Get a part-time job on or off campus. • Many community groups and often your parents’ company have scholarships available. But it’s up to you to find these sources of money. • If you have a scholarship, don’t blow it by getting bad grades or acting up. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |25|
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Your campus visit: What to see, do & ask Try to visit college campuses when school is in session, so you can really get a feel for what it’s like during a normal day. You can try to schedule your next visit on a high school administrative day, when you have off but colleges are holding classes. You can also use your spring break to visit out-of-state schools — some colleges wil even let you spend the night in one of their dorms. If visiting in person is not possible, be sure to take a virtual tour!
❏ Check the box & fill in your answers as you explore a campus. College name ______________________________________________________________________ Location ____________________________________________ Date visited ____________________
What to see..
What to do..
Remember
The dorms
❏
Interview with an admissions officer. ❏ Get information about financial aid and work opportunities on campus. ❏ Take a tour with a student guide. Ask students questions about their experiences. Why did they choose this college? What is their major? What do they do for fun? ❏ Read the student newspaper. What is happening on campus? ❏ Venture off-campus. ❏ ❏ Y N Is it a safe area? ❏ ❏ Y N Are there things to do/visit? Could you find an off-campus job? ❏Y ❏N Is public transportation available? ❏Y ❏N
Choosing a college is a big decision. Make sure you’re choosing the right one for you. Was there anything that you particularly liked or disliked about the college? Be sure to note it here so you don’t forget. _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________
How far is the walk to class? __________ ❏ ❏ Y N Are the dorms co-ed? ❏ ❏ Do they have study areas? Y N Is there a laundry room for students? ❏Y ❏N
The bookstore Do they carry everything you will need for class or will you have to leave campus for necessities?
❏ ❏ Y N
The cafeteria ❏ ❏ Is there a variety of food? Y N What is the student food plan? __________ __________________________________ Try the food if you can. Is it good? ❏Y ❏N
The library Is there computer access for student use?
The sports centers ❏
Take a peek at the arenas while on campus. You may even be able to attend a game or concert.
|26| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
❏ ❏ Y N
What to ask.. What courses of study/majors does the college offer/specialize in? ____________ __________________________________ What kinds of transition support services do they offer freshmen? ______________ __________________________________ How do you get help when you need it? __ __________________________________ What’s the student-teacher ratio? ___/___
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Resumés that rock! Tips to get you that all-important interview Most high school kids don’t have much work experience. Employers expect that. Still, they want to know what makes you stand out. Nothing reflects your skills and achievements better than your transcript or a great resumé. Is your email address something like troublemaker@gmail.com? Doesn’t sound too professional, does it? Make a new one for job searching using just your name or initials. List can include awards, honors or other special classes or vocational programs. Tip: List your sculpture class if you’re applying for an internship at a museum.
Key traits and skills that will impress would-be employers: responsibility, organization, dedication, hard work, multi-tasking, leadership, creativity, time management. Think about how you’ve learned or been able to use these skills or traits and describe the experience.
Jane Eyre 444 Main Street Ellicott City, MD 21042 410-555-6789 jane.eyre@gmail.com EDUCATION
Central High School Perfect attendance during first semester Maryland Scholar
GPA: 2.8/4.0
EMPLOYMENT
Ellicott City Community Pool, lifegaurd 16 hours of work every weekend Trained in CPR and first aid Maintained pool cleanliness and safety
Summer 2012
ACTIVITIES
J.V. Soccer, team captain Eight hours of practice and two games every week Led team to 14-2 record Highest goal percentage on team Won Spririt Award at end-of-the-year banquet
2011-2012
Helping Hand Nursing Center, volunteer 2010-2012 Four hours of volunteer work twice a month Talked to residents, designed activities and assisted nurses Recruited two more volunteers
SKLLLS
Bilingual: Spanish and English Basic computer skills, including word processing (Microsoft Word) and PowerPoint; excellent knowledge of Internet search engines Responsibility learned through taking care of two siblings most evenings Organizational skills learned through balancing school, sports and family obligations Dedication and hard work proven through athletic success
INTERESTS
Reading (novels and sports magazine), photography, spending time with family
In general… • Be sure the information you give is relevant, true and complete. • Make your resumé easy to read (large-enough text) and attractive (consistent formatting and good organization). • Check your spelling and grammar. |30| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
If your school gives your grades as a percentage, write “Avg: 87.3%.” If your grades aren’t so hot, leave them out for now and work on improving them.
How long have you been involved or were you involved? Employers like to see commitment.
Include things you do at school and in your community, as well as volunteer activities. Write about your role in the activity, what you do/did, what skills you’ve gained as a result, and any achievements and honors.
This is a good place to list things you do or like, especial y if they are related to the kind of job you want. For instance, if you want to be a lifeguard, mention that you love swimming and exercising.
BWIWTB-articles_Layout 1 8/14/2012 6:37 PM Page 31
Fastest growing industries Occupation
Projected job openings 2010-2020
Actuaries
18,900
Finance & Insurance
Anthropologists & Archeologists
3,800
Professional, Scientific
Are you curious and creative? Like doing things with friends?
Industry
& Technical Services Architects, Except Landscape & Naval
50,900
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Audiologists
5,600
Health Care & Social Assistance
Biochemists & Biophysicists
13,400
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Biomedical Engineers
13,100
Manufacturing
Clinical, Counseling & School Psychologists
82,300
Self-Employed
Computer Systems Analysts
222,500
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Cost Estimators
103,000
Construction
Database Administrators
52,700
Professional, Scientific
At UMBC, you can join in activities for every interest, from rec sports to more than 200 clubs, including sailing, Habitat for Humanity and Students for Environmental Awareness—plus come cheer on our Division I Retrievers! With students from more than 100 countries, you’ll make friends from all over the world!
& Technical Services Dietitians & Nutritionists
35,400
Health Care & Social Assistance
Environmental Engineering Technicians
8,200
Want to see for yourself? Go to my.umbc.edu, created by and for UMBC students.
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Environmental Engineers
22,600
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Environmental Science & Protection
19,500
Technicians, Including Health
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Epidemiologists
1,500
Government
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists
17,100
Professional, Scientific
& Geographers Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
& Technical Services 1,500
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
42,600
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Software Developers, Systems Software
168,000
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
Fastest growing industries from O*NET OnLine
www.umbc.edu
| 1-800-UMBC-4U2 BeWhatIWantToBe.com |31|
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Advertiser Index AAI.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Community College of Baltimore County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Coppin State University.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 The Daily Record.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Earth Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Eastern Shore AHEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Frostburg State University.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 The Governor’s Interagency Transition Council for Youth with Disabilities.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Johns Hopkins Medicine.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 KPMG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Living Legacy Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lockheed Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.. . . . . . .16 McCormick.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Medtech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside back cover Morgan State University.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back cover Northrop Grumman.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 OneMainFinancial.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Pepco Holdings Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Salisbury University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Stevenson University.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside front cover Towson University.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 T. Rowe Price.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 University of Baltimore.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 University of Maryland in Baltimore.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 University of Maryland Baltimore County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 University System of Maryland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
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Leonardo
IT Specialist, Software Developer, IBM
Software Developer Includes researching, designing, developing and testing software. A developer may take part in design, computer programming or software project management, and may contribute to the overview of a project on the application level rather than component-level or individual programming tasks. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |39|
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STUDY NOW, SUCCEED LATER
We are in your community. Strong relationships are built between good companies
Picture yourself just 10 years from now. Imagine designing unmanned aircraft that are used by the U.S. Army every single day. Or building small, high-tech boats that can accomplish even the toughest and most dangerous missions, with no crew onboard. AAI’s employees do all this, and so much more. With the right education and skills, there’s no limit to what you can accomplish. www.aaicorp.com EOE M/F D/V
and good people—working together. It starts in the community, where we’ve been providing personalized loan solutions one customer at a time, for 100 years.
OneMainFinancial.com
OneMain Financial is proud to support educational programs that enrich lives and neighborhoods.
® OneMain Financial is a registered service mark of OneMain Financial Holdings, Inc.
© 2012 AAI Corporation. All rights reserved. AAI is an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company. AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation.
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STE
This workforce solution was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The solution was created by the grantee and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U. S. Department of Labor. Maryland Energy Sector Partnership Grant. www.gwib.maryland.gov, 410.767.2017
|34| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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Iesha
Engineer, Northrop Grumman
Aerospace Engineering The primary branch of engineering concerned with the design, construction, and science of aircraft and spacecraft. It is divided into two major and overlapping branches, aeronautical and astronautical engineering.
|40| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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EM
Science Technology Engineering Math
Want a career that pays well and is in high demand? Consider STEM. Professional and technical workers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math are in high demand — and 72% of those workers will need at least a bachelor’s degree. The prospects for lucrative employment and rewarding careers have never been better for Maryland graduates with strong proficiency in science and math. Maryland ranks 2nd in the nation in the percentage of its workforce in professional and technical STEM careers. What is a STEM career? One that focuses on and requires skills in science, technology, engineering or math.
Look for this icon to find STEM careers
Healthy planet Just like doctors, nurses and therapists work to keep our bodies and minds healthy, there are people who work to keep the planet healthy. Each one of us needs our planet to be healthy to provide for us food, clean water, reliable energy and fresh air, just to name the basics. Many of the jobs that make our planet healthier are helping people save water and energy and pollute less. These “green jobs” can be in many fields, such as building, engineering, teaching and manufacturing. Many green careers also are emerging in solar and wind power, exciting new fields that need scientists, engineers, builders and entrepreneurs. Meet some of these people with green careers in this magazine and, of course, check out BeWhatIWantToBe.com to learn about green career opportunities and what you need to get those jobs.
Look for this icon to find green careers BeWhatIWantToBe.com |35|
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Erin
Senior Astronomical Optical Scientist, Space Telescope Science Institute
Optics The branch of physics that involves the behavior and properties of light, including its interactions with matter and the construction of instruments that use or detect it. Optics usually describes the behavior of visible, ultraviolet and infrared light. |36| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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My Inspiration My father inspired me as a middle, high school, and college student. My parents have always taught me to strive for the best. I was not allowed to bring home anything lower than a B on my report card.
Choices & Key Decisions I decided in high school that I wanted to be a high school math teacher. Near the end of my freshman year in college, I was notified that the scholarship I was going to apply for was being cancelled. After careful thought, I decided to pursue a degree in Computer information Systems. After meeting with my new advisor, I realized I could pursue a dual Bachelors degree by adding some more business classes. My degrees allowed me to use my “people skills” and strengthen my technical skills with the computer science type of coursework. This approach fit well with my career goals.
What I Do A great day to me is a productive day where the program, supplier and company problems get solved. I work in program subcontracts. I work with and manage suppliers for one of our divisions. I create and send out Requests for Proposals for programs, prepare Purchase Orders and work closely and collaboratively with my peers to get the purchase orders finalized.
technology is developed and it’s interesting to work with all the teams. My day is never the same and that is what I like about my job. I am constantly learning from all the different situations. Another benefit is the relationships I develop with our programmers and the suppliers. Relationship building is a very important part of my job.
My Advice Pay attention and take advantage of your education while it’s free. Take a lot of the advanced classes now and get college credit for them. Start developing good study habits now because you will take them into the rest of your life. Lastly, put yourself around people with the same goals as you; it will help you stay focused and on the right track.
When I’m Not At Work I tutor and mentor students in Prince George’s County and Baltimore City, exercise, read and relax.
I wish I would have known how important it is to pay attention in school and how your habits that you develop early in life carry on into your adult life.
Where I Get My Motivation
I love to help people solve problems. I am good at communicating, motivating, and transferring positive energy to teammates.
I get my motivation from my family. When I mention family, I am referring to both my immediate family and the family I want one day. I’ve learned a lot from my family and I hope one day to pass their knowledge and passion for setting high standards on to my children.
I work in a division where a lot of the newest
I work in Anne Arundel County
Suitland High School Forestville, MD
Towson University Towson, MD Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Business Administration
I Wish I Had Known Then
Why I Do It
My Typical Day
The path I took
Pay attention and take advantage of your education while it’s free.
University of Baltimore Baltimore, MD Master of Business Administration
John Hopkins University Baltimore, MD Pursuing a Master of Engineering in Technical Management
Aerospace
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My Inspiration As an undergraduate, I was inspired to study physics by my uncle who is a radiation physicist. But I was also interested in all of the amazing things happening in astronomy, so I went on to study the design of telescopes.
Choices & Key Decisions My family didn’t have the money to pay for college. Luckily, since I was interested in math and science, I won a scholarship that covered tuition. I had to take out some loans to get through college, and that was a little scary, but I paid them off quickly. It was the best investment I ever made. I didn’t know what I wanted to major in when I entered college because I was interested in a wide range of subjects. I had a scholarship that was tied to studying science or math, and I knew that studying science would lead to an interesting job and financial independence. I studied physics as an undergrad, but also took a lot of liberal arts courses in other areas that I was interested in. I’m happy with my career, but I do make sure to incorporate my other interests into that career. For example, I enjoy writing, so I look for opportunities to do that at work. Choosing a particular major didn’t limit me to a single type of career. I’m finding that my career is fairly flexible and that I can tailor it toward the things that I’m interested in.
What I Do As a Senior Astronomical Optics Scientist at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), I work on developing techniques for on-orbit alignment of the mirrors and optics in the James Webb Space Telescope. I design telescope mirrors and the cameras that go on the back of them, among other things. I get a lot of satisfaction out of finding a design that cre-
I work in Baltimore City
ates good images and fits into the available space! It’s fun to run simulations and find out what happens to the telescope in different situations.
The path I took
Why I Do It I am good at detailed, methodical work. I have learned that there is room in science for all different types of thinkers. I tend to be at my best when paired with someone really creative; I can investigate and execute their ideas.
Villard Middle School Villard, MN
My Typical Day Every day at work is different for me. There are always new and interesting things to work on, and I love the variety. I’ve been doing work on the James Webb Space Telescope, but other projects have come up lately. For example, we want to build a small telescope on the International Space Station to show that we can assemble a telescope with a robotic arm, and I’ve been working on that project.
Minnewaska High School Minnewaska, MN
My Advice I think it’s important to choose a career that is stable and that lets you support yourself. At the same time, though, it’s very important to pay attention to what makes you happy. What do you do in your spare time? What kind of things are you moved by? Are there ways to tie those things into your career?
When I’m Not At Work I like to hike, kayak and scuba dive. This summer, I’m taking lessons in whitewater kayaking. At home, I read a lot of fiction, play piano and try to improve my cooking.
Choose a career that is stable and that lets you support yourself . . but also pay attention to what makes you happy.
University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN Bachelor of Science in Physics and Astronomy
University of Arizona Optical Sciences Center Doctorate in Optical Sciences
Space Science
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The path I took
My Inspiration
My Typical Day
My parents and classmates inspired me and motivated me growing up. My parents were good examples of hard working individuals and were very devoted to their responsibilities. They instilled these values in me.
One of the most exciting things about my job is that if there are problems that need to be solved, I am able to solve them. As a software developer, I create code for various applications, which are used for the greater good for things like government grants to help people. All of our projects are significant — millions of dollars are moved through our apps.
Choices & Key Decisions Robert Poole Middle School Baltimore, MD
A difficult decision I had to make in college was whether or not to stick with my major, computer engineering. When I first started, I didn’t know what I was getting into. I started college with a group of friends and a lot of them transferred out of this major, which made me wonder if computer engineering was really for me. But, I decided to stick with it because I realized that just because something is difficult, that’s not a good reason to quit.
What I Do Baltimore Polytechnic Institute Baltimore, MD
University of Maryland College Park, MD Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
I am a software developer, which essentially means I get to create and fix things like software applications. I work within a team and we set our deadlines for a specific project, and then I work toward meeting the deadline. I’m a self-managed person. On any given day, I may review lists of functionality, code, and test and troubleshoot issues with a certain technology or application that is in development. I coordinate with different teams on information in order to implement solutions and fix problems with an application in development. What makes my job exciting is being able to get something to work or to fix something that is broken and get the functionality implemented into an application.
Why I Do It I love to learn. I’m good at making people laugh! I’m also good at automating things like processes at work and tedious tasks.
Information Technology
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As a student, put your academic life first and your social life second. Make decisions based on being the best student you can be.
My Advice If you set your priorities and make decisions based on these priorities, you really can’t go wrong. As a student, put your academic life first and your social life second. Make decisions based on being the best student you can be.
When I’m Not At Work When I’m not working, I take Kung Fu lessons, watch movies, work out and take on side projects. I also like doing volunteer work and mentoring. I am always looking for ways to contribute to something.
Where I Get My Motivation Growing up, it was very competitive, especially in school, and it was this competitive environment that motivated me to do my best when I was younger. Now, I’m motivated more by understanding the difference I can make with my knowledge, and I’m constantly striving to make a difference in everything that I do.
Favorite Subjects in School My favorite subjects in school were math, physics and history.
I work in Montgomery County
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The path I took
My Inspiration Growing up, my family camped, hunted, fished and went to the mountains, so that’s how I got to like being around trees and being outside. When I was a senior in high school, we had to do a career term paper and I interviewed a retired forester, so that was kind of cool and made me decide that’s what I wanted to do.
Beaver Junior High School Beaver, PA
Beaver High School Beaver, PA
Choices & Key Decisions When I graduated from high school, I didn’t go straight to college. I went to work in a steel mill. I grew up in Pittsburgh and back then that’s what you did. My father passed away when I was a senior, so that was a tough thing I had to deal with. I stayed home to make sure my mom was okay and I had one younger brother still at home, so that was an obstacle that threw me off a little bit. I worked in the steel mill for a year and I made a lot of money, but it was not a thing I wanted to do forever, so I told my mother I was going to go to college. I went back to my high school counselor, and he gave me information for colleges with forestry programs and I checked it out from there. Going to West Virginia University was one of the best decisions I have made in my life.
What I Do West Virginia University Morgantown, WV Bachelor of Science in Forest Resource Management
As a regional forester for five Maryland counties, I am responsible for managing foresters and forest technicians who provide assistance to private landowners, county governments
Earth Science Get advice from your teachers, parents, role models and adult friends. They want the best for you. |42| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
and state lands. I oversee tree planting projects; forest stewardship, conservation and management; wildland fire suppression; and budget and personnel management. I also collect forest data, maintain trails, develop maps and design forest harvest plans.
Why I Do It I enjoy being responsible for forestry work and using my experience to help landowners manage their woodland. I also enjoy conserving our forests and natural resources in Maryland to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
My Typical Day On a typical day, I go out in the field for an assignment. If I’m going to meet a landowner, I look at their property, do a planting plan, collect data and do a field assessment. We take a lot of measurements of tree age, height, diameter, species, the amount of trees there, how crowded the density is — we analyze all that data and make recommendations on what needs to be done based on the scientific data collected. Then I might go back to the office and start doing research on soil types, wetlands, and natural features. Then I prepare a plan for what the landowner wants to accomplish.
Where I Get My Motivation I like working with people and I like my coworkers. They’re interested in what they do and the landowners appreciate what we do.
I work in the counties of St. Mary’s, Charles, Calvert, Prince George’s, & Anne Arundel
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David
Forester, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service
Forestry Creates, manages, uses and conserves forests and associated resources in a sustainable manner, and creates and implements systems that allow forests to sustainably provide environmental supplies and services. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |43|
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MD Department of Health & Mental Hygiene Lisa Sanitarian Celere Public Health Laboratory Scientist—Lead/Microbiologist Rachel Safety and Security Officer/Training Coordinator, Laboratories Administration Public Health Intervention The focus is to improve health and quality of life through the prevention and treatment of disease and other health conditions, through surveillance of cases and the promotion of healthy behaviors. |44| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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Lisa’s Inspiration
Celere’s Inspiration
Rachel’s Inspiration
I went to Barton College to be a nursing major. I always knew I wanted to do something in the sciences. I like helping people, so I thought “I’ll do nursing because you can have the best of both worlds.” But I started taking science classes and thought that was a lot more fun. When I was in college, I didn’t know what a sanitarian was. In my senior year, I interned at a wastewater treatment plant. I knew I wanted to do something environmental related, and that started me on the path.
My parents were a big inspiration to me growing up. My mother, especially, encouraged me to be my own person, to explore my interests and to learn more.
My senior seminar in public health opened my eyes to the idea that government and science play an intricate role together and that funding is important to the success of treating disease. Seeing that connection between government, science and funding helped me realize how diverse public health is. My professor opened the door to a lot of different fields. I wouldn’t have applied for my initial position in Laboratories Administration without taking that course.
Lisa’s Choices & Key Decisions For me, the cost of college was an obstacle that I overcame. I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I did it. I took loans, I worked every semester, and I came back every summer and took summer courses so I could graduate in four years. I use my degree and I think that’s because I paid for it and I earned it. Don’t look at the cost of school as “I can’t afford that.” Yes, you can. It’s an investment. You make do and you do what you’ve got to do and nobody can ever take that away from you.
Why Lisa Does It Every day is like a new day. There is something different, like a new problem to solve or new facilities to inspect. I enjoy meeting and talking to different people throughout the day. It’s rewarding when you know you have some say in the food supply and making sure people don’t get sick.
Lisa’s Advice Just go out there and do what you have to do to get it done. Don’t let anything stop you.
We work in Baltimore City I work in
Celere’s Choices & Key Decisions The first difficult decision I had to make was what type of college to go to after high school. Finances were an issue, so I decided to go to a junior college first for two years before transferring to a four-year university where I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology. This turned out to be a very good experience for me. I was fortunate to have had many internship opportunities in college, and after college I was able to find work in my field. I always knew that I wanted to major in biology, so I stayed in biology throughout college. The subject was just so fascinating to me, and I saw that there are so many different and diverse things you can do in the field.
Why Celere Does It I love to help people, which is another reason why I went into this field. I get a chance to help people every day and it’s a very good feeling. I am good at problem solving, which is a big part of my work.
Celere’s Advice Make school work a priority — it pays off in the long run. If you work hard now, you can play hard later. Hang around people doing positive things, doing their schoolwork, listening to teachers, and behaving in class. Also, find something you enjoy doing that you want to make a career out of. You want to enjoy what you do when you spend 40 or more hours a week at work. A job will get you through the day, but a career will get you through life.
Being a successful person does not mean you’re the best at something; a successful person is typically the most persistent and they work the hardest at it.
Rachel’s Choices & Key Decisions A key decision for me was accepting that I am dyslexic. Reading and writing were challenging for me growing up. To overcome this obstacle and learn ways to work through it, my parents and I had to ask for help, starting with going to the right school. Once I had the right tools and techniques, reading and writing became easier. Being a successful person does not mean you’re the best at something; a successful person is typically the most persistent and they work the hardest at it. I decided to work hard, be persistent and be open to new opportunities that crossed my path.
Why Rachel Does It I enjoy the diversity of job duties and the ability to interact with different people. From one day to the next, my job is never the same. I like knowing that what we do here is very important and that makes me work a lot harder to do my job correctly.
Rachel’s Advice Be true to yourself, work hard and be persistent, and you will be successful.
Health Care
— Rachel BeWhatIWantToBe.com |45|
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The path I took
Place Middle School Denver, CO
George Washington High School Denver, CO
My Inspiration In high school, I had a teacher who had an after-school computer science lab that gave me exposure to computer programming. Back then, we would use teletypes to program on and access a computer that was located eight or nine miles from the school. It was my first exposure to software programming on a mainframe computer.
Choices & Key Decisions One of my challenges was poor study habits, which I overcame by deciding to do all of the homework problems and review my notes from class every night. In high school, I had summer jobs where I was mowing lawns and doing things outside. That was tough work in Colorado, where it could get very hot. That was a kind of work I really didn’t want to do for the rest of my life.
What I Do Howard University Washington, DC Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science
Howard University Washington, DC Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
I run a line of business called cyber solutions, which is part of our Information Systems and Global Solutions area. I work with other engineers to develop large systems like satellites, ground antenna and software systems to protect large computer networks. I use my technical background and my communications skills to provide solutions for our customers.
Why I Do It I like working with other people, and I like working with new technologies. Technolo-
My Typical Day A typical day consists of many things, including meeting with customers, the employees who report to me, and industry partners so that we can team up to pursue contracts. In technical meetings, we analyze problems and develop tactical and strategic solutions.
My Advice Never leave to tomorrow that which you can do today. If you’ve got an assignment you received on Monday that’s not due until Wednesday, do it on Monday so you can go back and look at that work to see if you can improve upon it.
When I’m Not at Work I do a lot of things on my own time from a mentoring perspective. I also read a lot of the defense publications to stay abreast of where our customers are going and what they are seeking to meet in terms of short-term and long-term objectives.
Where I Get My Motivation I’m a team-oriented person, so I like being on teams where people come together and brainstorm to solve problems. The beauty is being able to see the problems, recognize the challenges, and being able to solve them and overcome challenges as a team. That way, everyone benefits from the interaction and the learning that goes on in the process.
I work in Montgomery County
Cybersecurity Never leave to tomorrow that which you can do today.
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gies allow you to brainstorm ways to solve problems.
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Darrell
Vice President, Cyber Solutions, Lockheed Martin
Computer Science The scientific and mathematical approach to computation, specifically to the design of computing machines and processes. A computer scientist is a scientist who specializes in the theory of computation and the design of computers.
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The path I took My Inspiration
Pimlico Middle School Baltimore, MD
My daughter helped me to get where I am today. She was not doing well with her schoolwork during her freshman year of high school. I wanted her to get accepted into college, but none of my motivational efforts worked. Noticing how other fathers positioned themselves to provide for their children’s education, I decided to lead by example and earned my degree from the University of Phoenix. Education in the new economy is so important because it gives you multiple career options.
Choices & Key Decisions
Mergenthaler VocationalTechnical High School Baltimore, MD
University of Phoenix Online Bachelor of Science
Why I Do It Freedom of creativity is what I enjoy the most about my job. I get to come up with some wild and crazy projects for students to indulge in. My goal is to ensure students are developing to their highest potential in machining, and I have the freedom to make this happen. I am virtually my own boss in the classroom as long as I deliver. Seeing a student’s eyes open to a new world, as it was for me, inspires me.
There was no money to attend college right after high school, and I experienced some peer pressure to follow friends into a life way below my potential. Having a job helped me to stay away from the streets. Years later, working two jobs while taking online classes was a huge obstacle. Shear discipline was how I overcame everything. I was willing to work at any hour to achieve my goal. My current job took me out of a life of poverty. Had I not gotten an education, I am sure I would be working an unskilled job way under my potential.
My Typical Day
What I Do
My Advice
I develop fun and interesting curricula for my students at the Magna Baltimore Technical Training Center. The classes are designed for students to discover their talents and abilities to work hard for their goals. Managing a data-
No matter which school you attend, hard work will eventually be rewarded. Asking questions about anything you don’t understand is the key to success. There is a saying I use for my students: “Don’t be the guy that don’t know why.”
By 6:30 a.m., I am up, dressed and on the road listening to news headlines and music to start my day. Once I get to Magna, I am making the rounds to different classrooms to help motivate students and instructors. Around lunchtime, I am working on a new computer system project that will be released in the near future. My afternoon involves getting ready for my night classes, including practicing my lectures.
I work in Baltimore City
Education No matter which school you attend, hard work will eventually be rewarded.
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base, which houses data about the students such as grades, attendance, profiles and internships, is another of my job duties.
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April
Research Laboratory Manager, Battelle
Laboratory Research Also called clinical trials, laboratory research involves work in which the researcher seeks to control conditions and variables to determine whether a clinical intervention produced the desired effects or if other factors were responsible for the desired effects. |48| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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My Inspiration My high school biology teacher was an inspiring teacher, mentor and friend. I still keep in touch with her today. She made me realize that biology was fascinating and that molecular biology and microbiology were two areas I wanted to study.
Choices & Key Decisions I didn’t know a lot about biology careers, I just knew I was interested in it. My school guidance counselors didn’t have a lot of information on careers in biology, so I did a lot of research looking up colleges with science programs and courses that looked interesting.
What I Do I manage a research laboratory at Battelle, where we do research for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and government agencies that are developing new therapeutics and solving problems in the health and life sciences. I oversee a group of scientists and work with clients to plan our projects and experiments and review the results. For one project, we are helping the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention develop tests that can determine if people have antibodies against different influenza strains. Sometimes we help companies develop new drugs, therapies or vaccines and we do testing to determine if they work or not.
Why I Do It I really love the fact that I get the opportunity every day to learn new things in science and that the work we do is helping make people’s lives better and healthier. I also enjoy working in a
I work in Harford County
collaborative environment and working closely with other scientists to solve difficult problems.
The path I took
My Typical Day By 6:30 a.m., I’m home from my morning run and getting ready to head to work. Once in the office, I meet with my staff to discuss results from the previous day, catch up on emails and talk with clients to discuss projects. I also review data from experiments, plan lab work for the next day and work on proposals for new projects.
Queen of Peace Middle School North Arlington, NJ
My Advice My biggest piece of advice is that everything is multidisciplinary now ¾ all your subjects are important, so you want to be as broad as you can be. There’s plenty of time to specialize later. You need strong writing skills, you need to be a good reader and you need to understand how history impacts the future. Follow your dreams, work hard and you will achieve success.
Queen of Peace High School North Arlington, NJ
When I’m Not at Work I’m involved with the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education and the Greater Baltimore Technology Council. I also belong to scientific societies, which host annual meetings. I do some volunteer work where we take students on tours of the lab and talk to them about careers in science.
School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University (formerly Cook College) New Brunswick, NJ Bachelor of Science in Microbiology
I Wish I Had Known Then You need to seek out opportunities for internships and mentors. Making connections with people leads to new opportunities. There are internship opportunities for scientists in all different types of businesses. Even Victoria’s Secret hires chemists.
You need to seek out opportunities for internships and mentors. Making connections with people leads to new opportunities.
Yale University New Haven, CT PhD in Molecular Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Bioscience
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Montez
Technical Coordinator/Machine Shop Instructor, Magna Baltimore Technical Training Center
Machine Shop A facility with equipment and supplies for machining, a process in which parts are cut, fabricated and finished to prepare them for use. Machine shops are used in the creation of new parts, as well as repairs of existing equipment and parts. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |55|
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The path I took
Geyer Middle School Fort Wayne, IN
My Inspiration My coach and friend, Eddie Nolan, really inspired me. We are as close as ever and he has been there for me, helping me throughout high school, college and even in the pros. Eddie just wanted me to be the best I could be. He was a mentor and an example as well. Also, just watching “Inside the NFL” when I was growing up inspired me. Watching the players, I knew I wanted to be there one day.
Choices & Key Decisions A critical choice for me growing up was not running with the crowd and just being me. By doing this, I was able to see that the “crowd” was really killing themselves. I learned from their mistakes.
What I Do South Side High School Fort Wayne, IN
Purdue University West Lafayette, IN Communications major; left without a degree after three years.
I am a safety for the Baltimore Ravens, which is the last line of defense. I, along with the other safety on the team, have to defend the end zone. What really inspires me to do the best job I can is being able to show others the gift God has blessed me with. And, I’m able to make people happy when they meet me, which is really weird to me! What makes a great day on the job for me is after a win, being able to see the smiles, laughs and cries from my peers and coaches. Knowing that all of the hard work we put in to playing football is paying off - that is the greatest feeling.
My Typical Day A typical day for me is: At 6:30 a.m., I’m up reading the Bible and getting ready to head to the Ravens facility. By 9 a.m. I’m in meet-
My Advice An education is something that nobody can take away from you. Go get an education because it can only help you, and not having it can hurt you. Also, don’t compromise for anyone and always keep God first.
When I’m Not At Work I like to spend time in my house and just kick it with my kids and wife. That, and maybe take the car out for a spin. I’ve also been working on a card game called “Bourre,” which is an app for the iPhone, iPad and iTouch.
I Wish I Had Known Then In high school, I wish I had known to really just enjoy those days and not take everything so seriously. I live my life not wanting to ever follow anyone. I surround myself with people who value life and want nothing but the best for themselves.
Where I Get My Motivation I am motivated to play the game of football to show people all over the world the gift that God has blessed me with. As an athlete, people sometimes peg you as a certain kind of person, but I’m here to show my fans and others that we are all not the same.
I work in Baltimore City
Sports Go get an education because it can only help you, and not having it can hurt you. |50| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
ings related to the team and games. At 1 p.m. I’m getting ready for practice, which lasts until about 4 p.m. By 7 p.m., I’m heading home to spend time with my kids before they go to bed. The best part of my job is coming together with 10 other men to make a play happen.
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Bernard
Safety, Baltimore Ravens, National Football League
Safety On a football team, the safety position, or “free safety,” is the last line of defense in the secondary. He is the deepest defender on a pass play and provides secondary support on a run play. The free safety gets the privilege of standing in the back, watching the play develop and attacking where he knows the play will end up. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |51|
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Nicole
Director of Private Dining, Fireman Hospitality Group, Bond 45, Fiorella
Hospitality The relationship between guest and host, or the act or practice of being hospitable. That includes the reception and entertainment of guests, visitors or strangers, resorts, membership clubs, conventions, attractions, special events and other services for travelers, dining guests and tourists. |56| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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L.Q.
Lead Global Client Operations Manager, T. Rowe Price
Investment Management Professional management of shares, bonds, other securities or assets in order to meet specified investment goals for the benefit of the investors. Investors may be institutions (insurance companies, pension funds, corporations, charities, educational establishments) or private investors. |52| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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My Inspiration In high school, I had the opportunity to participate in the barrister club, which was really very eye opening for me and is what inspired me in my current vocation. I learned how to question things and debate issues, experiences that have provided me with the means to assess a situation from multiple points of view and determine how to best present an argument.
organizations that turn to us to help manage a pool of money.
Why I Do It I love to solve problems and be a part of the development of solutions. I’m good at breaking down issues and always looking at mutually beneficial solutions for clients and other teams within my company.
Choices & Key Decisions
My Advice
My area of interest in high school was in international relations. I wanted to attend a college that offered this major, but many of these schools were out of my reach financially. Ultimately, I attended a college that offered me the best financial aid package. Not being able to major in my area of choice, I had to find something similar and wound up majoring in international business and economics. As a high school student you’re always told that you can do whatever you set your mind to, but then you’re faced with the hard facts of funding your college education. This is where I learned that in real life, you have to make choices and sometimes compromise. This may not have been the major I thought I’d wind up in, but it was a good alternative that still satisfied my interests.
Your first job, in high school for example, doesn’t have to be glamorous. I worked for a carry out in high school, but when I went to college and had to find a job to help support myself, I was able to use the transferrable skills in future jobs. Even if your job is at a local eatery, your future employers will appreciate skills such as a good work ethic, customer service, and job loyalty.
What I Do I manage a team of people in the negotiation and facilitation of contracts with clients. It’s our role to understand investment parameters and implement strategies for a variety of institutional clients. These clients can be any company, for profit or nonprofit businesses and
I work in Baltimore City
The path I took
When I’m Not At Work
Cunningham Junior High School Brooklyn, NY
Western High School Baltimore, MD
I read a lot — everything and anything I can! I like to watch television and I’ve also taken up knitting, which is the best stress reliever!
I Wish I Had Known Then I wish I had paid more attention in school. You may not think you’ll ever need subjects like calculus or algebra, but one day you may just need to use this information, so it pays to pay attention.
Babson College Babson Park, MA Bachelor of Science in Economics and International Business
Where I Get My Motivation I get my motivation from doing a really good job. A job well done and getting to the best answer really motivates me.
Your future employers will appreciate skills such as a good work ethic, customer service, and job loyalty.
Boston University Boston, MA Master of Business Administration
Finance 222 22 2
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My Inspiration Education has been a big focus for my entire, very large extended family. My mom, in particular, constantly stressed the importance of education and being a good student. That message was instilled in me at a very young age. She was there for every program, recital, teacher conference and every evening to assist with homework.
Choices & Key Decisions In my sophomore year of college, I made the decision to leave school. I was doing very well academically but was very unsure of what I wanted to do and was really struggling personally. This really disappointed my family tremendously. I planned on taking one semester off, but career advances came quickly for me. Nearly three years later, I informed my employer that I needed to leave and finally go back to school. And although they offered me more money and opportunities to stay, I decided it was time to get back to college.
What I Do I am the director of private dining for the Fireman Hospitality Group. We have two restaurants in the National Harbor — Bond 45 and Fiorella. I am responsible for the sale and planning of all private events. We host private parties for groups of six to 300. I draft and execute contracts, create the private dining menus for each season, plan the event menu, contract outside vendors, process financials, maintain private dining reporting, audit all contract financials, coordinate event staffing and print event menus.
Why I Do It I love to be the person responsible for executing someone else’s vision for a successful event, whether it is a corporate outing for 20 or a
I work in Prince George’s County
wedding reception for 200. I am good at coordination and paying close attention to every little detail while cultivating lasting relationships with clients and staff. I have met people in all walks of life as an events professional — members of Congress, business leaders, heads of state and military, as well as celebrities. I genuinely enjoy the creative process of event planning, and when my clients are happy with the end result, I am thrilled to do what I do.
My Advice
The path I took
Thomas Johnson Middle School Lanham, MD
Devote time and attention to determining what your passions are and follow a career path that supports those passions. Do not chase money and material possessions, rather pursue achievements and goals.
When I’m Not At Work I cook and bake a lot which usually involves entertaining friends and family. I started as a professional chef, and cooking and baking keep my kitchen skills fresh and allow me to spend time with loved ones surrounded by good food.
What I Wish I Had Known I wish I knew to take advantage of the broadcast technology and culinary arts programs that were available for free when I was in high school! I also wish I would have pursued my passions when I finished high school instead of listening to the career advice I was given based on aptitude tests.
Where I Get My Motivation
Eleanor Roosevelt High School Greenbelt, MD
Bowie State University Bowie, MD Bachelor of Science in Communications and Broadcast Technology
Baltimore International College
As a young woman in college, and later as a young professional just starting out, I was motivated by my family and wanted to make them proud. Now, I’m motivated by my son to work hard and continue to grow as a professional.
Baltimore, MD Associate of Occupational Studies in Professional Cooking and Baking
Devote time and attention to determining what your passions are — and then follow the appropriate career path.
Hospitality
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The path I took
Northern Bedford County Middle School Bedford, PA
Northern Bedford County High School Bedford, PA
Oral Roberts University Tulsa, OK Bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting
No matter what life put in my father’s way, he would always have a smile on his face. A complaint about having to go to work would never cross his lips. He showed up each and every day to provide for our family.
the trains go successfully from point A to point B is very satisfying for me. It makes me realize I play an integral role in our railroad’s operations, which has an impact on the nation. At this point in my life, I could not see myself doing another job because I really enjoy what I do.
Choices & Key Decisions
My Typical Day
When I was growing up, my parents did not have a lot of money. They were always struggling and living by each pay check. At a young age, I made a promise to myself to learn from their mistakes. While attending Oral Roberts University and later St. Francis University, I started working on papers as soon as they were assigned instead of trying to write them the day before the due date. While my classmates were cramming for exams hours beforehand, I would try to study the class material after each session. Throughout school, I always tried to do my best each day, knowing that one day my efforts would be rewarded.
When taking over for the previous dispatcher, I start off my day by finding out what each train is doing and where they are going. I’ll send train crews bulletins throughout the day giving them the most pertinent track condition information. There is a single track in many areas, yet there are multiple east and westbound trains. They need to meet each other and pass at places called sidings. I help to plan when they meet and which trains get priority. Coordinating trains can be stressful at times. Sometimes I have to get up from my desk and walk outside to get a breath of fresh air. When I am not at work, I enjoy keeping active. I spend time lifting weights and doing cardio.
My Inspiration
What I Do Being a train dispatcher requires leadership skills and responsibility. I am in charge of having trains move safely and efficiently on approximately 150 miles of CSX’s territory.
Why I Do It CSX REDI Center
I have heard people say railroads are the backbone of the country’s economy, so watching
My Advice When I was in high school, I thought classes like English and literature were useless. I already knew the language and could read and write. Why did I have to take it? A few years later, I realized those classes helped prepare me for college and molded me into the person I am today.
Atlanta, GA CSX dispatching school and conductor school
Transportation
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I realized English and literature helped prepare me for college and molded me into the person I am today.
I work in Baltimore City
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Bronson
Train Dispatcher, CSX
Train Dispatcher Directs and coordinates the safe movement of railroad traffic on a specified territory from a central and/or regional location, issues permits and authorities, monitors all rail movements and maintains computerized records of all activities.
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Dr. Venkata Gastroenterology A branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders.
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Research Fellow, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
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My Inspiration My father, who was a geologist working in mines, taught me to be curious and ask questions. As a community physician, my grandfather inspired me to always do something to help others.
Choices & Key Decisions My hometown in India was small and had no computer or Internet service. We did not have a local library so I would have to travel just to borrow a book. Needing a scholarship for higher education, I knew early that I had to work hard by studying long hours to get good grades. I frequently visited universities to talk and ask questions of the professors and scientists. I wanted to have a better understanding of science and research, which were the topics I was most interested in while attending school. Many of the scientists were very supportive of me by giving me books and other informative materials to read. My parents and teachers also guided me to make the right decisions for my career path and obtain a medical degree from Andhra Medical College. I believe positive thinking, planning and having supportive people around makes things easier.
What I Do At Johns Hopkins University, I work in the gastroenterology division, which deals with patients’ digestive systems. As a fellow, I am doing research on the pancreas but will soon be performing medical procedures to treat pancreatic diseases.
Why I Do It Gastroenterology diseases are very common
I work in Baltimore City
worldwide. As a doctor, I enjoy helping patients by treating their illnesses. There is a lot of monetary gain in this field, but there is more happiness from knowing you are helping someone. With my research work, I can potentially help a large number of people worldwide. Being a fellow, you meet many people with similar interests and ideas. Getting to discuss your ideas with them is very gratifying.
My Typical Day I start my day early around 6:30 a.m. by studying for a few hours while my mind is fresh. Work begins at 9 a.m. and my schedule varies from day to day. I attend classes, go to meetings, and give presentations with other researchers. A couple days a week, I learn about endoscopy, which is the practice of using a medical device to look inside the body. In my free time, I read books on philosophy, pray and mediate. I enjoy a good movie and am an avid gamer. I try getting on my PlayStation whenever possible.
My Advice
The path I took
Kendriya Vidyalaya India
Andhra Medical College Andhra Pradesh, India Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
With determination and hard work, you can get where you want. It doesn’t matter where you come from. Passion is what’s important.
The best and worst parts of my job I work with some of the pioneers in the field, and there is nothing negative about it that I can think of. I suppose it does require long working hours and I haven’t got a lot of time to spare for my family and loved ones, but the returns are worth it.
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
It doesn’t matter where you come from. Passion is what’s important.
Health Care
Research Fellow
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The path I took
My Inspiration My father was the person who gave me compassion toward others, but my mother gave me the feeling I could do anything I set my mind to. I had a math teacher in high school who told me I was really good in math. That was a pivotal moment. It made me achieve more and take harder math classes.
Choices & Key Decisions Middletown High School Middletown, RI
University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI Bachelor of Science in Resource Development/Natural Resources
University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI Master of Arts in Education
Education
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When I had this wonderful teacher tell me I should be a math tutor, I found out I really liked helping people. From there, I started to take a lot of math and science in college. One professor said to me, “You have a good way of relating to your peers. Why don’t you think about teaching?” Around my junior year, I took two physics classes, and that started me on a whole series of decisions that took me from just liking math and science to really being at the top of my game.
Why I Do It The greatest satisfaction is when students come back and tell me I’ve given them the skills to be successful in college and they’re breezing through it. My former students are aerospace engineers, nuclear engineers, electrical engineers. I especially love it when they say they’re top in their class. That, to me, is the highlight of what I do.
My Typical Day I enjoy creating exciting lessons for my students. You’re trying to ignite a love for an important subject, so I need to reflect on my practices and set high expectations for myself. At the end of every day, I evaluate how well I presented the material, and from that I create
Learning is part of living, so enjoy it and embrace learning new things, even the difficult things.
my plan for the next day. I also grade assignments, read labs and correct problems. I like to give students feedback so they know exactly where they need extra help. I spend a lot of time after school if they need tutoring. My day starts about 6:30 a.m. and can end anywhere between 4 and 6 p.m., depending on the level of difficulty of the subject we’re faced with. I also run the Science National Honor Society, Robotics Club and Physics Olympics Team.
My Advice Learning is part of living, so enjoy it and embrace learning new things, even the difficult things. Struggle through them and don’t give up. Find a buddy to work with.
When I’m Not at Work When I’m not at work, I travel a lot. I’ve been surfing all my life, so I hunt for hurricanes and I surf when the hurricane swells hit. I go out to San Diego and surf all summer. I go all over the East Coast and West Coast and go to Mexico during Easter and Christmas breaks.
I Wish I Had Known Then Don’t be afraid to get involved in extracurricular activities and try out the things that maybe you’re a little shy about. Go for it! Try something other than what you’re interested in. Try mentoring — it makes you feel good about yourself and gives you more confidence. You become more confident when you challenge yourself. With these very difficult courses, there’s nothing like seeing these kids when they can’t believe how much their brains can handle. I remember them looking at me when they first come in like, “I don’t know if I can do this,” but at the end of the year, they’re like, “Piece of cake. No problem!”
I work in Calvert County
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My Inspiration
Why I Do It
My mother is the hardest working woman that I know. While working full time, she went back to college to get a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Even though she worked long hours when my sister and I were growing up, we always knew we were her number one priority.
I enjoy being able to negotiate ways to help the customers and Microsoft. My job also allows me to have a flexible schedule to work from home.
Choices & Key Decisions After I graduated from Greene Central High School in North Carolina, I became the first person in my family to attend college. I went to Spelman College to obtain my bachelor’s degree in mathematics. Spelman is a small, private, all-girls college. An average class size was between 20 to 30 students so I was able to form close relationships with my instructors and fellow students. It was quite a transition when I began pursuing my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the large, public co-ed Georgia Tech. The two schools are the exact opposite. My classes at Tech had between 200 to 300 students, so it was ten times more difficult to know your instructors and classmates let alone form relationships with them. I adjusted to the different setting by forming study groups and asking others for help.
What I Do As a software licensing specialist, I study our software licensing policies and apply those to sales opportunities in order to help close deals and make money for the company. A huge part of my job is negotiating discounts and pricing in order to make sales work.
The path I took
My Typical Day While most people are up at 6:30 a.m. to get ready for their work day, I am a night owl who works late. I’ll start my day around 9 a.m. by checking my e-mail and planning the day around my calendar of meetings. While some leave the office to have lunch, I usually work and eat at the same time. Around this time of day, I’m on a conference call negotiating a deal, working on building a price sheet or driving to or from a customer meeting. By 4 p.m., I am catching up on Microsoft groups and activities I am involved in, such as university recruiting and planning professional development events for the Blacks at Microsoft organization. Work can sometimes still be ongoing at 7 p.m., but usually I am arriving or leaving the gym at this time. Working out is very important to me.
Greene County Middle School Snow Hill, NC
Greene Central High School Snow Hill, NC
Spelman College Atlanta, GA Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
My Advice Take school seriously and figure out how to incorporate both your talents and interests in your career. College is more than education. Students should also take advantage of the experience and networking experience.
When I’m Not at Work Travel, exercise, spend time with family and friends, and small business consulting.
Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Parsons The New School for Design New York, NY Certificate in Fashion Buying and Merchandising
I work in Montgomery County
Take school seriously and figure out how to incorporate both your talents and interests in your career.
Information Technology
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Barbara
Advanced Placement Physics Teacher, Patuxent High School
Physics A natural science that involves the study of matter and its motion through space and time, along with related concepts such as energy and force. More broadly, it is the general analysis of nature, conducted in order to understand how the universe behaves. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |63|
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Damon
Digital Signal Processing Technology Group Leader, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Signal Processing An area of systems engineering, electrical engineering and applied mathematics that deals with operations on or analysis of signals, or measurements of time-varying or spatiallyvarying physical quantities.
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The path I took
Parkland Junior High School Rockville, MD
Robert E. Peary High School Aspen Hill, MD
Wheaton High School Wheaton, MD
My Inspiration At some point when I was in college, someone said to me, “You want to make sure that when you wake up, you look forward to going to your job and you can’t wait to get there.” I get to do some really cool stuff here and work with some really neat people, so I feel very fortunate to do what I do.
Choices & Key Decisions At one point, I had planned on going to law school and I made a decision that that was something I did not want to do. I don’t think I would have been happy strapped down to a desk for that much of the time. I had graduated from college and I was teaching skiing fulltime, which I taught throughout college. That was when I made the decision that I didn’t think I would be happy going to law school.
What I Do I have a partner in the business, and we divide up a lot of activities. I do a lot of payroll and personnel matters, but I also spend time working on the floor, selling products to customers and solving customer issues. We also have some property management activities, and I take care of a lot of that part of the business.
Why I Do It University of Maryland College Park, MD Bachelor of Arts in Economics
I get to do lots of different things and they’re always changing, and I get to work with some really cool, interesting people, from my employees to my customers to our vendors. I enjoy it. The biggest challenge is balancing everything in life. Several years ago, I was really active, but I was working a lot of hours and eating a lot of junk, so I changed things around and got serious about biking. Then got
My Typical Day When I get to work, I check emails, organize my to-do list for the day, have a quick meeting with our maintenance guy, and make a phone call or two. At that point, I’ll start working on different projects and try to get a couple of projects done. Usually I have a meeting in the middle of the day. Occasionally, I’ll go for a bike ride from work, then come back and keep working and help any customers on the retail floor.
My Advice Follow your passions. Don’t ignore those (within reason). There are a lot of people that I see get a degree in something and then change their path altogether because they’re not happy. Also, take your studies seriously. I see a lot of younger kids who don’t put forth their best effort.
I Wish I Had Known Then I would have a lot more self-confidence, just knowing that you can take care of the challenges you have in life. Sometimes in life, it’s easy to become intimidated with things, but when you look back on it, they really weren’t things that you had a reason to be intimidated about. There may have been a lot of bark there, but not much bite, once you figured out how things worked.
Where I Get My Motivation I enjoy what I do, so that motivates me, but it’s also that we’re building a really neat business and it’s gratifying to see that. You’re motivated by money because you’ve got to pay bills, but that’s not my major motivation.
I work in Western Maryland
Business Follow your passions and take your studies seriously.
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seriously into triathlons, which has made a big difference in my health.
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My Inspiration In middle and high school, I was inspired by the work ethic of my siblings. We grew up relatively poor in South Philadelphia, but that did not stop them from working multiple jobs and pursuing higher education while working these jobs. In high school, I was inspired by my physics teacher who also worked summers as a radio astronomer. I always was inspired by physics, electronics and math growing up.
Choices & Key Decisions A difficult choice I had to make was immediately after my graduation from undergraduate school at Penn State. The choice was to stay at Penn State and pursue my master’s degree in electrical engineering full-time, or go work for NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. I chose working at Goddard, while pursuing my master’s part-time at the University of Maryland, College Park. In the end, that worked out because I became more focused in my engineering discipline, and NASA paid for my master’s degree.
What I Do My days are highly variable. Some days, I telework; other days I’m in my office or in the lab with other engineers working on spacecraft hardware. My primary job is designing custom digital computers for spaceflight instruments. I use engineering design software and modeling tools to test computer algorithms or computer architectures for doing instrument signal processing. I also mentor college students, as well as lead other engineers to design science instrument computers. I’m responsible for designing the “smarts” inside of NASA science instruments that are flown aboard spacecraft. These spacecraft either remotely sense
I work in Prince George’s County
the Earth’s environment, other planets in the solar system, or other stars and galaxies in deep space.
The path I took
Why I Do It I love to solve difficult problems, and I love to do math and engineering. Being a digital signal processing engineer combines the best of math, electrical engineering and computer science into a very fun and interesting profession.
Gen. George A. McCall School Philadelphia, PA
My Typical Day My days involve solving problems with other engineers, writing code, designing digital hardware, writing and publishing papers and presentations, and having meetings with other teams. The best thing about my job is that it’s flexible enough to work around my hectic schedule.
My Advice Know yourself and your study habits. Make sure you give yourself time to concentrate on your work, to have fun, and become experienced in your field even outside of school. Take responsibility for your own education, and don’t expect teachers to teach you everything you need to know. Take advantage of all of the resources available to you. Ask good questions and do your homework to find the answers.
George Washington Carver High School of Engineering and Science Philadelphia, PA
Pennsylvania State University State College, PA Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
When I’m Not At Work I am currently studying for a Ph.D part-time and I’m also a father of three kids, so work is continuous for me. When I’m not in the office, I’m at school, and when I’m not at work or school, I’m at home with my family.
Take advantage of all of the resources available to you. Ask good questions and do your homework to find the answers.
University of Maryland College Park, MD Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
Aerospace
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The path I took
My Inspiration
Why I Do It
Throughout my adolescent years, my grandparents and my faith inspired me the most.
I love helping people to realize how important it is to properly manage their money. Showing people they can get out of debt, have better relationships and build wealth are three huge ways lives can be impacted for the greater good.
Choices & Key Decisions Middle River Middle School Middle River, MD
Kenwood High School Essex, MD
Members of my family have had issues with drugs, alcohol and physical abuse. At a young age, I decided I wanted a different life than the one I was experiencing. I was determined to be different than my family members by facing life obstacles without the use of substances. One of the best decisions I made was applying to the college preparatory International Baccalaureate program at Kenwood High School. The program gave me exposure to rigorous coursework and helped me to develop critical thinking skills which aided me in college and my career. I never pictured myself in the financial industry or thought I wanted to teach others about money. But once I got into the financial field, I learned as much as I could about it so I could continually improve.
What I Do Community College of Baltimore County Catonsville, MD Associate Degree in General Studies
Western Governors University Salt Lake City, UT Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education and Social Sciences
Finance 222 22 2
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Research, presentations and business development are the core of my job. I must be aware of current trends going on in the financial world including new consumer protection laws and other pertinent information. My presentations are done before groups of various sizes and ages. Being able to communicate clearly and effectively is the key to teaching others about the importance of financial literacy. Business development involves creating opportunities in the community to work with businesses, organizations and local groups.
Find out all the different ways to pay for higher education.
My Typical Day My day starts by getting ready for work around 6:30 a.m. When I get into the office around 9 a.m., I check my email, make plans for the day, and confirm appointments for the next day. My job allows me to leave the office to do presentations on-site for various businesses, schools or organizations. When I get back to the office around 4 p.m., I unpack my materials from the day, make sure I have enough for tomorrow, and check emails that came in while I was away. By 7 p.m., I am home with my wife relaxing.
My Advice Find out all the different ways to pay for higher education. My parents told me they had money set aside for me to attend college. When the bill came, they admitted they had not been honest about finances. I took a job substitute teaching and as a part-time teller to pay for my schooling at the Community College of Baltimore County. I am still working on my bachelor’s degree in secondary education and social sciences at Western Governors University. My education has taken longer than I anticipated, but I paid for it myself.
I work in Harford County
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Steve
Co-Owner, High Mountain Sports
Entrepreneur A person who organizes and manages any enterprise, especially a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk.
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Michael
Financial Education, Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union
Financial Literacy The ability to understand finance. More specifically, it refers to the set of skills and knowledge that allows an individual to make informed and effective decisions through their understanding of finances.
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Quiana
Software Licensing Strategist, Microsoft
Software License A legal instrument governing the usage or redistribution of software. A typical license grants an end-user permission to use one or more copies of software in ways where such a use would otherwise potentially constitute copyright infringement of the software owner’s exclusive rights under copyright law. |68| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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Charles
Electrician/Co-Owner, Trinity Electrical Services LLC
Electrician A tradesman specializing in electrical wiring of buildings, stationary machines and related equipment. They may be employed in the installation of new electrical components or the maintenance and repair of existing electrical infrastructure.
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My Inspiration In high school, my biology teacher would say, “You can make all the money you want, but what type of effect will you have on humanity?” For some reason, that really struck me. She challenged us to consider, even if we made millions, who would we help and what changes would we make in the lives of others. Later, I worked with a gentleman who said, “You could really be a good electrician if you’d put forth half the effort I know you have in you to really master this.” I began to take it seriously, and after that I got a love for it, and I’ve been in love with it ever since.
no greater joy than assisting a family in such a way. I also enjoy working with my hands, so I find myself assisting the technicians on the jobs at times. I feel it is important that the men as well as the clients see me working so they can all see we are together.
My Advice Plan! While in high school, meet with your advisors and make a plan. Planning is so important in every aspect of your life ¾ what you want to do, where you want to live. If you don’t plan what you want to do, life will quickly tell you what you’re going to do.
Choices and Key Decisions
When I’m Not at Work
One of my key decisions was to make it through the temptations of inner-city street life. I didn’t necessarily overcome them, but I made it through the challenges with the guidance of some wise mentors. When my teacher made me think about considering other people, that opened my eyes up in a lot of different ways, because the things I had been involved in were not benefiting anyone other than myself.
I enjoy my church ministry and we do a lot of community activities. I also volunteer at my children’s school.
What I Do I coordinate our daily activities — what service calls will be done, who will do the job, what time the trucks will go where. I talk with our clients to verify they are pleased with our service. I contact future clients to see if we can provide them with our services. I visit job sites and make sure our employees have the materials they need.
Why I Do It I enjoy helping people. When we enter a house with no lights and we fix the problem, there is
I work in Baltimore City
The path I took
I Wish I Had Known Then
West Baltimore Middle School Baltimore, MD
Lake Clifton High School Baltimore, MD
I wish I had known the sheer importance of education. I went to school because others said so. I wish I had gone for myself because I think I would have achieved more while I was there.
Where I Get My Motivation My wife and children allowed me to see that I wanted to do something that would make a difference in the lives of others. I also am motivated by helping other people. With this particular business that we’re in, from a large property owner having an issue where half of his building doesn’t have electricity to a little old lady whose air conditioner will not turn on, everybody has needs. We can supply their needs and create a living for ourselves while helping others.
Plan. If you don’t plan what you want to do in life, life will quickly tell you what you’re going to do.
National Education Center Certificate in Medical Assisting
Community College of Baltimore County Catonsville, MD Associated Builders and Contractors Apprenticeship Electrical Journeyman
Energy
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The path I took
My Inspiration Growing up, my sister gave me inspiration. She helped me to go to college and pushed me to become the person I am today.
Choices & Key Decisions St. Pius X Regional School Bowie, MD
Eleanor Roosevelt High School Greenbelt, MD
Despite being a member of the National and Italian Honor societies and captain of Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s soccer team, I didn’t have the SAT scores to get into the University of Maryland right after graduating. Since I was waitlisted, I traveled for a semester. The experience was great, but I wish I had gotten the counseling to go to a community college to earn credits and pursue my goals. When I did get into the university, I made the most out of my experience. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English, I was a corps member with Teach for America and went on a service trip abroad with a Christian organization.
What I Do University of Maryland College Park, MD Bachelor of Arts in English
Harvard University Kennedy School of Government Cambridge, MA Master’s Degree in Public Policy
Government
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As a senior analyst, I look at data such as test scores, graduation rates, and advanced placement, to tell me how our state is doing in education compared to others. Taking those findings and including what challenges the state faces, I write briefings to inform the director of policy and the governor. If appropriate, I may work with different leaders or recommend implementing a law or policy to help the state do better in education.
Why I Do It Wanting to make a difference for schools, teachers, students and communities, I earned
Never quit. No matter how hard somthing gets, know that it is worth it in the end.
a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University. I decided to get involved in government because I was tired of seeing bad policy affect children negatively. If I can recommend changing or implementing a law or policy in order to see Maryland students do better, then I will.
My Typical Day As the sun creeps up over the horizon, I start my day by getting dressed and commuting to work. By 9 a.m., I am checking e-mail, responding to requests, giving assignments to staff members, and coordinating projects with other leaders. Working in Annapolis is beautiful, fun, and never boring. I get to work with lawmakers, analysts, researchers and advocates. Since there are limited resources, not every initiative can be funded, so people are not happy sometimes. Around 1 p.m., I write up a policy briefing and I finish up my day around 4 p.m. by watching a webinar or reading news articles. In the evening, I will attend a policy event in Washington to meet with representatives from state government or nonprofit groups.
My Advice Despite having friends who got involved with drugs, I always stayed focused on my school work and playing sports while I went to high school. No matter how long it would take me, I always did my homework. I was in the science and technology program and played varsity soccer. Sometimes, I had to stay up all night to finish everything but I got it done. I never quit, so no matter how hard something gets, know that it is worth it in the end.
I work all over Maryland
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Angela
Senior Analyst, Office of the Governor
Policy Analyst Involved in the evaluation and formulation of policy. Policy analysts work at nonprofit organizations, government agencies, news outlets and many other types of entities. Skilled policy analysts can be in very high demand, especially if their skills lie in an area of policy that is of current social and political interest. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |75|
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Dee
Risk Manager, Citi/OneMain Financial
Risk Management The identification, assessment and prioritization of risks, followed by coordinated and economical application of resources to minimize, monitor and control the probability and/or impact of unfortunate events or to maximize the realization of opportunities. |76| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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My Inspiration Many different people inspire me. I have learned to study people who have achieved a high level of success. I enjoy reading about or watching television specials dedicated to sports legends such as Cal Ripken Jr., Michael Jordan, and the Williams sisters. Each person has their own story, but they all have common traits for success that can be used in daily life.
Choices & Key Decisions Nothing was given to me or came easily. I had to work hard for what I wanted and earn everything. Learning the value of hard work helped me. Lackluster effort produced dismal results, which fostered low expectations. I desired to be better than average and wanted to be somebody. I made the choice to do as well as I could in school and treat my brain as a muscle that needed exercise.
What I Do My team supports all the reporting for the risk department at Citi. We find ways to allow the company to maximize profit and lower financial losses. Some of our tasks include tracking down and managing various forms of data needed to complete different analysis. We use programming skills to pull the data and communication to understand the requests of individuals in multiple departments and sometimes in other geographic areas.
Why I Do It Working on projects with math and num-
I work in Baltimore City
bers and helping people to make a difference in their lives are two of the reasons I enjoy going to work. My job allows me to enjoy the things I am passionate about while maintaining my integrity and values. I also cherish working with a team of likeminded individuals toward a common goal. Without good team work, I would not be as successful.
My Typical Day After getting up early, I catch the train for work around 6:30 a.m. As the work day begins around 9 a.m., I am attending business meetings or answering email. I am fortunate to have a good team that likes to help others. I can’t take the credit for the results. They do all the heavy lifting and make me look good. Working with my team, I help to provide resolutions to any critical business issues that arise. After lunch, I am scoping out new projects for the company. As the day comes to a close around 4 p.m., I meet with team members to get progress updates.
My Advice
The path I took
Jackson Middle School Ohio
William Penn High School New Castle, DE
University of Delaware
Determine what you want to do in life and model your direction and behavior after those who are already successful in that profession. Each post high school graduate looks the same to the outside world. Education allows you to stand out from your peers in the eyes of professionals and elders. It also signifies your potential for success and indicates your work ethic. With knowledge you can take ownership of your future.
Newark, DE Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (Finance and Marketing)
Determine what you want to do in life and model your direction and behavior after those who are already successful in that profession.
Finance
Goldey Beacom College Wilmington, DE Master’s Degree in Information Technology
222 22 2
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Shari
Attorney, Maryland Disability Law Center
Attorney Represents one of the parties in criminal and civil trials by presenting evidence and arguing in court to support their client. As advisors, they counsel clients about their legal rights and obligations, and suggest courses of action.
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The path I took
My Inspiration
My Typical Day
My inspiration is my dad. One of the things he’s always taught me is that if you work hard, you’ll do well.
In the morning, I am usually making a specific buffer, a type of solution, in the lab. After lunch, I get updates from coworkers and talk about lab processes. My work is monitored because I’m an intern: and because we’re federally regulated, a lot of the work has to be verified by someone else to make sure everything is going to plan. Because it’s a relatively small company and we have limited lab space and equipment, I have to coordinate with other people to make sure nobody wants to use the equipment at the same time. At the end of the day, I record the day’s work in a lab notebook.
Choices & Key Decisions Urbana Middle School Ijamsville, MD
As I was going into high school, I made the decision to focus on soccer and academics instead of music. All three were too much. I realized there was no possible way I could be on the soccer team and the marching band and do well in school, so I made a choice. I still love to play the clarinet, but as a hobby. For me, a key decision was the choice to be proactive, to not be idle and wait for opportunities.
What I Do
Urbana High School Ijamsville, MD
I work in reagent manufacturing, mixing chemicals to make solutions that serve different purposes. I am still in the process of learning all the standard operating procedures. I help make solutions for the development of diagnostics and conduct experiments to determine the quality of solutions. I keep a laboratory notebook and trend data and do other tasks to help the reagent manufacturing team.
Why I Do It
University of Maryland College Park, MD Working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry
Bioscience
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I love having a specific goal. It’s easy to get caught up in doing well in tests and assessments, but practical knowledge, the kind you can only get through working in the lab, is what makes science worthwhile. I’m gaining experience and learning a lot of new things. A lot of the instruments and techniques I use in the lab at Wellstat, I haven’t been exposed to before, so it’s nice to learn things that will help me along the road.
Practical knowledge, the kind you can only get through working in the lab, is what makes science worthwhile.
My Advice Don’t bite off more than you can chew. I definitely learned toward the end of high school that I put myself under too much pressure. Everything was accomplished, but I don’t think all the stress was worth it.
I Wish I Had Known Then How important time management is. In a college setting, you definitely won’t get as much done on the weekends as you think you will.
Where I Get My Motivation Having a goal in mind is really nice, that it’s all leading somewhere, and I really like to interact with the people I work with.
Hobbies Playing the clarinet, hanging out with friends, and reading.
I work in Montgomery County
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Katie
Intern, Wellstat Diagnostics
Internship A system of on-the-job training for white-collar and professional careers. Internships for professional careers are similar to apprenticeships for trade and vocational jobs. Although interns typically are college or university students, they also can be high school students or post-graduate adults. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |79|
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My Inspiration
Why I Do It
I don’t really have one particular role model, but rather my entire family inspired me along the way. I lived in a single parent household with my mom and grandparents. We’ve always been a very close family, and they have always pushed me to do better, be better and want more. My family did, and continues to support me in all areas of my life.
I love to read and I’m good at talking! I’m good at teaching others. That’s what I do as an attorney. One of my gifts is being able to digest tons of information and then explain this information to others in a way they will understand it.
Choices & Key Decisions When I entered college, a difficult choice I had to make was choosing the right major. I started as math major. I was very good at math and science and enjoyed these subjects, but, after my freshman year, I decided to change my major to history and black studies. With the head of the math department telling me this was a poor choice, the decision to change was hard for me. But, I had to decide what I wanted to do and what truly interested me, not just do what I was good at. This was the first time that I had to really figure out what my interests and passions were, and I set aside the other opinions and followed my desire.
What I Do In addition to being an attorney with the Maryland Disability Law Center, I am also an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland, University College. I also work on a children’s mental health project, advocating for the rights of children with psychiatric disabilities who are in institutions. And, on any given day, I may be performing client visits and putting my other work on hold, investigating concerns and incidents that may occur. This is not to mention my other job — being a mom!
The path I took
My Typical Day My day starts around 4 a.m., when I do preparation for the online class I teach for the university. Around 6 a.m., my kids wake up and I get them ready for the day. I arrive at work between 8:15-8:30 a.m., and start checking tons of emails, which is the way everyone communicates these days. Then, I hit the ground running around 9 a.m. when the law offices open. During litigation season, I have a lot of court cases to prepare. I spend the day on the computer researching, writing legal memoranda, and preparing for hearings, which takes a lot of concentration and focus. I often just close my office door and get to work, avoiding phone calls so I can focus on the task at hand without distraction or interruption.
St. Jerome School Brooklyn, NY
Herbert H. Lehman High School Bronx, NY
What I Wish I Had Known With every level of success there is a new level of difficulty. I was always so focused on what’s next in life, that I sometimes would miss the current. Enjoy the right now because you don’t get that back.
Lincoln University Lincoln University, PA Bachelor of Science in History and Black Studies
Where I Get My Motivation In the past, I was motivated by just wanting more for my mom and grandparents, and to be in the position to do more for them. They gave me so much of everything growing up that I truly wanted to provide for them financially. Later, my motivation changed to wanting to be excellent in whatever I was doing.
I work in the state of Maryland
University of Maryland School of Law Baltimore, MD Juris Doctor
Law Enjoy the right now because you don’t get that back.
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Dale
Civil Engineer/Project Engineer, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Civil Engineering The design, construction and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including works like roads, bridges, canals, dams and buildings.
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My Inspiration My mom is a very hard worker. She wanted to make sure my goals were met, so whatever I needed, she tried her best to provide. I admired everything she did. She’s just an inspiration. My high school guidance counselor inspired me by encouraging me to join as many committees and events as possible.
Choices & Key Decisions In high school, I had a shyness about me and kept to myself, so my guidance counselor encouraged me to get into more activities. Once I joined Junior ROTC, that opened things up to me because it was so much activity and it forced you to take on a leadership role. I ended up being the second-in-command when I graduated. I joined the fashion show club just to get out there and be in front of the crowd. When we had our first fashion show, I was nervous, but it helped me to step out and get exposure. The more you’re exposed to people, the more your personality comes out.
What I Do As a project engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, I am responsible for four construction projects: building an addition on a fire station, demoing more than 20 small buildings, repairing and replacing an HVAC system, and making sure contractors correct deficiencies made on the job site. I am also responsible for quality assurance and monitoring of all contractor activities, including quality control, safety, progress and contract administration actions. I keep the area engineer informed of important activities while
I work in Harford County
representing the area engineer to government agencies and personnel. I coordinate between contractors, using agencies and customers to provide required construction on time and within budget.
The path I took
Why I Do It I like the feeling of accomplishment when a task is complete, taking on a project from the beginning and helping to resolve issues. I also like working with people and getting to travel.
I Wish I Had Known Then
Fallstaff Middle School Baltimore, MD
Pick classes that prepare you for college. Also, make sure that you never stop learning.
Subjects That Mattered Most English, physics, science, calculus, algebra and other math classes are important. I wasn’t a great math whiz, but I wasn’t intimidated by math. The most important thing when you’re going to engineering classes is not to be intimidated by the courses you pick. Just be prepared to study and to want to learn.
Northwestern High School Baltimore, MD
Where I Get My Motivation I get my motivation from having a good end product. I like to start something and see it to its completion. The work is not boring; it’s always exciting. You have your headaches from time to time, but overall, the pros outweigh the cons.
Hobbies
Morgan State University
I volunteer in the church and spend time with my son.
Baltimore, MD Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Chance favors the prepared, so always be prepared for an opportunity or an open door.
Engineering
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My Inspiration
The path I took
My parents really inspired me. They’ve always pushed me and encouraged me to excel. The priority for them was always on education, and they instilled this in me.
Choices and Key Decisions Cedar Drive Middle School Colts Neck, NJ
Manalapan High School Manalapan, NJ
The Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
University of Connecticut Storrs, CT Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Yale University New Haven, CT Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering
Yale University New Haven, CT Master of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering PhD in Biomedical Engineering
University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA Master of Business Administration Degree
Biotechnology
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I had gone into college always thinking I’d be an electrical engineer. Ever since kindergarten I’ve thought this! I’ve always loved taking things apart — my mom wasn’t too thrilled! When I got to college there was a great deal of attention and energy surrounding biomedical engineering. I’ve always been interested in medicine so the ability to combine the two — medicine and engineering — was a great opportunity. So, while I thought all along I’d be an electrical engineer, I was exposed to a field of study that I never knew about and went the biomedical engineering route instead.
What I Do For those who may not know, a biomedical engineer is an individual who has detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology as well as other engineering disciplines such as electrical, material science, and mechanical engineering. A great day for me is being able to bring a team of people together to solve a problem and actually make progress on solving it. Getting great minds together to develop solutions feels good and is truly motivating.
Why I Do What I Do I love to be challenged. I’m good at bringing teams together to solve difficult problems.
My Typical Day I do everything from develop schedules to
No matter how young you are, you need to have a plan and know how to get to where you want to be.
planning projects, defining our end goal and what steps the team needs to take to get there. I work out how much time a project should take, what it costs and what resources we need to get to the end goal. The program I work on is called Revolutionizing Prosthetics, and it is very forward-thinking. There is a great deal of research involved in this project, and I make crucial decisions on how to meet goals and provide technical oversight and guidance on these complex decisions. It’s really quite exciting. My team develops prosthetic limb systems and neurointegration strategies to control those limb systems to help improve people’s lives.
My Advice I was always very focused. I had a plan at age 17, and I knew what I would be doing at 19 and how to get there. And at 21, I knew what I would be doing at 25 and how to get there. But, life gets hectic and it is much more difficult to plan ahead as you get busier. If you know what you want to be, figure out what steps you need to take to get you there, what skills and experience you need, and who you need to interact with in order to meet your goals. Without a plan, you take a winding road to a place you may not be satisfied with. No matter how young you are, you need to have a plan and know how to get to where you want to be.
I Get My Motivation From Where I get my motivation from has changed over time. Today, I get my motivation from my family. Originally, a lot of goals were just for me, but now that my family has grown, my goals are for them as well, and I plan and work toward things they need. Additionally, I like challenges. If I was doing something mundane, I wouldn’t be motivated. Because I’m working on things that are very forward thinking, I’m excited to get to work every day.
I work in Howard County
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The path I took
Kingswood College Middle School South Africa
My Inspiration
Why I Do It
As a middle and high school student, my strongest role models were my parents. They both came from families who were not well off, and neither had an education past high school. They were entrepreneurs in farming and building construction and instilled in me from an early age that I am capable of doing anything, but to get there takes hard work and discipline.
I love to know that my work plays a positive role in society and is used to improve the quality of people’s lives. I am good at understanding problems and needs, and being able to translate that into a technical description of how to solve the problem or meet the need.
Choices & Key Decisions After high school, I thought I wanted to study mechanical engineering but ended up choosing a unique type of hybrid degree, combining science and commerce where I majored in both computer science and management information systems. I truly enjoyed this program and realized all of the opportunities that existed in the IT field.
What I Do Kingswood College High School South Africa
Rhodes University South Africa Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems
Technology
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I am responsible for the development of a software program that gets installed in hospital laboratories and connects to various instruments in the lab, taking results from the instruments, improving them based on other information we have in a database, and then sharing the test result information with the hospital systems that the doctors use to treat the sick patients. On a good day, I will be working with our customers across the country, and the world, to understand what part of their job can be made easier with our software system. I then take these needs back to our software developers and work with them to design the best solution. The best part of my job is to be able to go back to a user of our software and see how these new capabilities are being used in their daily lives to improve the way doctors care for their patients.
Any post high school learning is a valuable investment that will pay itself back over time.
My Advice Set goals for yourself. Figure out where you would like to be in 10 years, in five years and then what you need to do to get there. Also, furthering your education, either through college or vocational schools, will be the best investment you can make in yourself. Any post-high school learning is a valuable investment, and statistics show that it will pay itself back over time. Remember that you never stop learning.
When I’m Not At Work While much of my spare time is spent on schoolwork for my MBA, I also make some time to spend on sports and other activities with my children.
Where I Get My Motivation A strong motivator is my desire to be successful in order to provide more opportunities and a better life for my family. I also feel that to give anything less than my best effort is a waste of the talents and the opportunities I have. I really get a sense of satisfaction that my work is contributing to society and improving people’s lives. So, what motivates me is also knowing that if I do my job well, this is one additional step in the chain that keeps people healthy.
I work in Baltimore County
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Roger
Informatics Core Team Leader, BD Diagnostics — Diagnostic Systems
Software Developer Includes researching, designing, developing and testing software. A developer may take part in design, computer programming or software project management, and may contribute to the overview of a project on the application level rather than component-level or individual programming tasks. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |83|
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James
Biomedical Engineer, Project Manager, The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Biomedical Engineering The application of engineering principles and design concepts to medicine and biology. The field seeks to close the gap between engineering and medicine, combining the design and problem solving skills of engineering with medical and biological sciences to improve healthcare diagnosis, monitoring and therapy. BeWhatIWantToBe.com |87|
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Micaela
Student, University of Maryland Baltimore County and Intern, Teach for America
Internship A system of on-the-job training for white-collar and professional careers. Internships for professional careers are similar to apprenticeships for trade and vocational jobs. Although interns typically are college or university students, they also can be high school students or post-graduate adults. |88| BeWhatIWantToBe.com
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My Inspiration
Why I Do It
My parents, who immigrated to the United States from Argentina, and teachers were huge sources of inspiration for me. Their unrelenting support helped me become the person I am today.
When I was a freshman in college, I volunteered as a tutor for a special education student. Seeing the challenges he faced, including having a learning disability, and not receiving the resources he needed showed me how badly our education system is failing our children. When I wake up every morning, I know that I am working toward my dream of advocating for the educational rights of all children.
Choices & Key Decisions When I was in elementary school, I was bullied and ridiculed for being Hispanic. I went home and cried every day because of the hateful things some classmates would say to me. Deciding to take ownership of myself and push past those discriminating against me, I chose to pursue excellence in many different areas of my life. Anything less than an A wasn’t acceptable in my studies. My extracurricular activities included volleyball and starting a mentoring club. My choices focused around one question: What do I need to do to get into college and have a full scholarship to pay for my education? I was able to obtain my dream by getting a full scholarship to the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
What I Do As an intern in Teach for America’s marketing and communications department, I am working on two main projects. Helping to build the new TFA website is one of my tasks. I am moving all of the content from the old site to the new one. Another project is helping to promote the group’s blog, which includes doing a lot of research as well as creating an evaluation system to determine if the marketing is effective.
I live in Montgomery County
My Typical Day Breakfast and reading the news and education headlines start off my day. The workday begins at 9 a.m. and involves making an action plan for the day, doing administrative duties, and checking my email. I spend my mornings working on the transfer of website material with my afternoon dedicated to blog promotion. My work day ends at 5 p.m., which means it’s time for CrossFit or volleyball practice. Once I get home, I relax with a good book, make some dinner and prepare for tomorrow.
The path I took
William H. Farquhar Middle School Olney, MD
James H. Blake High School Silver Spring, MD
My Advice High school was very structured and I knew what to expect, but college is what you make of it. When I first began, I really didn’t know myself or what I wanted to do after graduation. I switched majors trying to find my career path through internships and volunteer opportunities. Through these experiences, I was able to find my passion for education. I don’t know where I will go after graduation, but I know I want to work in the education field.
Deciding to take ownership of myself and push past those discriminating against me, I chose to pursue excellence in many different areas of my life.
University of Maryland, Baltimore County Baltimore, MD Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Education
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The path I took
Easton High School Easton, MD
Sojourner Douglass College Baltimore, MD Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services – Social Work
My grandmother inspired me by always encouraging me that I could become whatever I wanted to be as long as I worked hard, had good values, morals and ethics.
college also did a cultural fashion show this year which showcased clothing from those represented countries. Meeting with students on a daily basis, I try to see each student as myself and aim to make sure their goals are met.
Choices & Key Decisions
Why I Do It
I knew I wanted to go to college, but I was in my own world, marching to the beat of my own drummer. Living in this false pretense of a world caused me to drop in and out of college and universities. After seeking out the advice of successful people and gaining several mentors who gave me valuable information, I was able to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in human services at Sojourner Douglas College while also working a full time job at Caroline County Public Schools. Going to and completing college right after high school would have been much easier. I should have taken schooling seriously instead of playing around, which resulted in my education taking longer than necessary to complete. Eventually, I was also able to obtain a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Wilmington University.
Driven to do the best I can to help every student succeed, I also enjoy meeting people from different nationalities and cultures.
My Inspiration
What I Do Wilmington University Wilmington, DE Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership
Education
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As the director of multicultural affairs, I create programs that foster cultural understanding. One of the events I help put together is a cultural kaleidoscope event which features food, information and activities from the different nations represented on campus. The
Dreams are made a reality through hard work, dedication and perseverance.
My Typical Day My schedule varies depending on the day of the week. I start off the day by checking my phone messages and e-mail in order to make a to-do list for the day. Some days I teach while others I spend in my office, advising students on academic, scheduling and personal issues, and making phone calls to partner with groups for campus activities. I also attend conferences and travel between campuses. Firstgeneration Opportunities for Career and Ultimate Success (FOCUS) is a campus program in which I tutor students, help them to set goals for success, and discuss their progress. My evenings usually are spent at a community or civic board meeting. When I am not at work, I like to relax by traveling and reading books.
My Advice Dreams are made a reality through hard work, dedication and perseverance.
I work in Queen Anne’s County
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Richard
Director, Multicultural Affairs, Chesapeake College
Multiculturalism Relates to communities containing multiple cultures.
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There are plenty of difficult obstacles in your path. Don’t allow yourself to become one of them. — Ralph Marston
Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.
You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
— Winston Churchill
— Wayne Gretzky
If you want more, you have to require more from yourself. — Dr. Phil As you become more clear about who you really are, you’ll be better able to decide what is best for you — the first time around.
One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation.
— Arthur Ashe
— Oprah Winfrey Do you live in one of the following counties? Are you interested in a career in healthcare? We are here to help!
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Allegany Caroline Cecil Dorchester Garrett Kent
Queen Anne’s Somerset Talbot Washington Wicomico Worcester
To learn more please call Cyndi Slacum at the Eastern Shore AHEC (410-221-2600) or Scottie Samples at the Western MD AHEC (301-779-9150)
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Trying to find a career that fits your style?
Prepare for an extraordinary new future in healthcare. t Ask about our short-term courses t Day and evening courses available t Financial aid available to those who qualify* *Not all programs apply
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extraordinary-medtech.com
Not all programs available at all locations. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at http://www.medtech.edu/consumerinfo. SCHEV has certified Medtech, located at 6565 Arlington Blvd. Suite 100 Falls Church, VA 22042 to operate in Virginia.
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A
My Future at My Fingertips Morgan Online Offers Degree Programs at the Undergraduate and Graduate Levels C O N V E N I E N T & A F F O R D A B L E
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www.morgan.edu/online Engineering Master’s Program: Master’s of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSSE) The Master of Science in electrical engineering degree program prepares individuals for a career in electrical engineering.
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