Career Roadmap
Alison's work combines: Writing, Education, and Teaching / Mentoring
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
University of San Diego
Graduate Degree
English Language and Literature, General
University of San Diego
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary:
Doctorate: Rhetoric and Composition
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Life & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
I graduated with my MA and started teaching at SDSU.
2.
Quit teaching because it wasn't fulfilling my need for significance in my work.
3.
Had three kids and stayed home to care for them. It was significant work for sure.
4.
Went to work in the surf shop my husband and I own. I merchandised, bought product, did sales.
5.
I wanted something more and found the position teaching veterans and wounded warriors.
6.
I found the work significant, meaningful and closely related to my skills.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Teachers:
If you're smart, you'll get a doctorate and put your career first. Marriages don't last, so make getting tenure a priority and keep working when you have kids. Put stability and money first, not family, friends, or life balance.
How I responded:
I know it's important to be great at what you do, but nothing is more important than being great at who you are and who you are is the sum of your whole life, not just one thing. Go for your dreams, but it's okay if your dreams include a relationship and family. Those have to take priority sometimes and it doesn't make you foolish for desiring things that make you whole, healthy and happy. I will never regret the person I became while caring for the ones I love.