Duck Alumni Career Blog

August 4, 2015

 

~ A "Letters from Silicon Valley" Series ~

I recently asked a few Oregon alums career advice they would like to share with college students or recent graduates. These alums are all accomplished and esteemed in their respective fields. They’re entrepreneurs, CEOs & VPs, Olympians, and America’s Cup sailors. I admire them for making a positive impact on the world and for striving to lead a full life in which their work is engaging and meaningful. They also spend time with friends, family, and on personal pursuits, all while they work at staying healthy and happy. The truth, there is no “one size fits all” strategy for success. I think their insights are good “food for thought” for anyone, especially those starting out in their careers:

 

.

“You don't learn from school; you learn from the college environment. You learn from the social part. I made a ton of friends that became a network of business connections and a support system that showed me how to run a business. I met my business partner in the fraternity. The friendships last your whole life. 

So perhaps you DO go out on Tuesday night to Rennie’s with a different group of friends. You DO go on the camping trip, even though you have a mid-term on Monday. Have fun. Make friends. And perhaps learn some stuff along the way.”

~ Peter Metz ’87, Founder & Executive Creative Director, Sockeye

“The one thing I wish I understood when I got out (of school) was that if I pursued something that I was passionate about, then I would be successful at it. You have to do what you love, not just get a job. Even if you think it might make you less money, in the end, if you love doing it, you will be more successful at it, probably make more money, and you will be happier. 

The other thing is to leverage your network. Don't ever be afraid to call a friend, or a friend of a friend, or a friend of your parents for some advice or support no matter how intimidating it might feel. People WANT to help you get a step up, especially when you are young and starting out. If you are making an effort yourself, then others will want to help you. The relationships you build will be the most valuable to you over your entire career.”

~ Ed Colligan ‘83, Managing Director, Edventures; Founder & CEO, Palm

“The best advice I think I can offer is the value of the informational interview. In beginning a career search, too often the focus of the newly minted graduate is to focus on themselves and getting started in a career. I think the often overlooked career search tool is the informational interview. If you do a good job of getting someone to talk about him or herself, their job, their career path, their likes and dislikes of their career choice, this will often lead to an introduction to someone new and possibly even a recommendation on your behalf to Human Resources or others that are in a position to make hiring decisions. The informational interview is a great way to gain insight and to get your foot in the door of a company in a non-threatening way.”

~ Ken Flax ’87, SVP, Wealth Management, UBS Financial Services

“#1 Go live in a city where you don't know anyone — it shocks you into action on making new friends and cultivating a network that is of your own design. Don't be too safe in the actions you take, or you will miss out! 

#2 Only work at places you are proud to tell people about — stay away from the soul-sucking companies, especially for first or second jobs. Later when you're tougher, it’s okay to go there.”

~ Colleen Chapman ’86, VP, Global Responsibility and Public Policy, Starbucks

“Plan for tomorrow, but live for today. For instance, as you start to earn an income, start to save (even a small amount) for retirement. The irony is that if you begin to save early in your career, you ultimately will need to save less throughout your working life. Taking control of your financial future will help you feel a little less stress today, so you can focus on having a successful career and full life.”

~ Peter Miller ’87, Chief Investment Officer

“Be curious, be humble & try many different things. When you find your passion, follow it. Give it your best, every day, but don't give it your all. Save some of that best for your family, self, and friends because they are true life.”

~ Mike Erlin ’87, Regional VP – Australia & New Zealand, Cornerstone On Demand; Founder, AUSA Ventures


May you find success and make your life interesting and enjoyable.


~ Humberto 


 Go Ducks!

Contact:
humberto@chacon.us