Business to Career Counseling

Happy as a Squirrel

Dear Anthony,

To thank you wouldn’t even begin to describe my sense of appreciation
towards our conversation this morning. I feel fortunate to have crossed
paths with you. Your insight into my natural talents and abilities
gives me confidence to head in whichever direction I choose, without
worrying if I’m making the right decision. I can finally begin to go
with my natural instincts, and create the career most suited for me. In
a sense, the squirrel has located the proper tree to climb.

Even beyond the eye-opening help you provided, is your own rise to
personal success. I did a little bit of reading on the Pathfinders web
page today, and it was great to find out about the path which led you to
where you are today. I have the utmost respect for you, as you
recognized the need for change during your days as an engineer. You are
a living proof of what you speak and teach. You are also an
inspiration, and I am truly grateful for your help.

This has been an awakening day. My favorite quote has never had more
meaning than it does now:

“So without any fancy way of adjusting yourself, to express yourself
truly, without any inhibitions, is the best way to achieve happiness for
yourself and others.” -Shunryu Suzuki

Sincerely,
Rob

Update:

Dear Anthony,

It’s a pleasure to contact you again. If you remember, I was interviewing for a math teaching position at a middle school I really like. I didn’t get the job, but I’m at the school teaching speech!!! Me, teaching speech!? I used to be nervous speaking in front of people several years ago. 🙂 I will also take over for a teacher that’s going on maternity leave next week, which means I’ll teach Global Studies.
Now, that suits me perfectly. Teaching the kids about the world and its cultures is pretty cool. I love the fact that I will have the freedom of having my own class to run it the way I wish. On top of this, I’m tutoring a student from another school. We meet about 5 times a week, two hours at a time. Oh yeah, and I’m coaching tennis. Basically, I wake up at 6:30, get back at 8…but I love it! I have a sense of purpose. My intention is still to go to school for the grad Psychology degree, which will not begin until January…by then things should settle in a bit.

During tennis camp, I performed several times in front of everyone (500 or so people). Simple songs, but a lot of fun. 🙂
Our tennis director at camp (I was a tennis counselor) is a well accomplished former pro that currently works with the pros. He spends his summers working at camp to basically relax. We really hit it off, had great conversations, and befriended each other. Last week we talked on the phone and we’re arranging to go back to camp. If this happens, he wants me to become the assistant director. I was pretty impressed…Greg normally works with the likes of Sampras, Agassi, etc. He actually grew up with them, so he knows them pretty well. Now, I think he wants me to be his assistant! Anthony, you and Nick are to blame for this!! 🙂 I’m using my abilities and talents and things unimaginable are popping up in front of me.

I hope all is well with you.
Best Regards,
Rob

Update:

Hi, Anthony!

I’m proud to say I have been accepted to Antioch University, and I will begin the psychology program in January! I’m very excited about studying psychology with a focus on career counseling!!! It’s actually happening. 🙂

So, you’re thinking about talking to high schoolers? I’ve actually thought about that myself lately, as I’ve been working as a teacher. I completely see the need to help these kids choose what they will study in college, as many of them are only concerned getting into the top schools, thinking everything will work out. I could easily print one of your articles and read it to them! Which is something that I hope I will be able to do (with your permission), as well as setting up a career counseling program. This is all just an idea, however Brentwood School (where I teach) is a great place and I believe they would be interested in offering a career choice program to students. My plan is to teach a psychology class next year after getting more acquainted with the field, and then offer career counseling as an activity. The hope is that it would really spark the kids and spread by word of mouth. Once the administration sees the kids excited about something, I’m certain they would want to do more. Again, all this is just a thought for now, and will take some time and knowledge to implement.

I like your idea about speaking to groups. Much to my surprise, I find myself greatly enjoying speaking in front of groups, and could see myself doing more of it. I say surprisingly, because I used to hate speaking in front of others. I teach 7th graders, and I love informing them about life through history and global studies. It’s an exciting time for me as I’m able to be myself and share that with others. I’ve always believed in teaching others patiently with care, and now I get to do it.

All the best,

Rob