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Informational Interview with Kylie Zajdel: Development Operations Coordinator at Seattle Symphony

I had the opportunity to conduct an informational interview with Lawrence alumna Kylie Zajdel. Zajdel currently resides in Seattle, Washington, where she works in Development at the Seattle Symphony. In this reflection, I will touch on some of the main talking points from our interview, including Zajdel’s career path, network building strategies, and advice for Lawrentians interested in pursuing Arts Administration.

No “Typical” Career Path

During her time at Lawrence, Zajdel majored in music theory, flute performance, and French and francophone studies. Although she knew early on that stage fright would prevent her from pursuing a career in performance, she discovered a passion for being involved in music offstage. In the summer of 2021, Zajdel interned as the Student Operations Intern at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee. This experience introduced her to the world of Arts Administration and solidified her desire to stay connected to the arts without performing.

Currently, Zajdel works at the Seattle Symphony as the Development Operations Coordinator, focusing on the operational and developmental tasks that enhance the donor experience. Just before our meeting, she discussed career paths in Arts Administration with her boss, only to conclude that there isn’t a typical path in this field. She emphasized that everyone finds their own way into Arts Administration, and no two paths look the same. According to Zajdel, it’s all about discovering what interests you and gaining first-hand experience.

Networking is Really, Really Hard…

I asked Zajdel how she built a network within her field, to which she replied that she is currently in the process of networking within the Seattle-based arts community. She prefaced her answer by saying, “Networking is really, really hard…”. Despite this candid admission, she emphasized the importance of consistently putting yourself out there and taking risks when interacting with others in Arts Administration. Zajdel advised starting with connections that may seem the most outlandish, as you never know the extent of someone else’s network

Final Advice: Don’t Give Up!

Lastly, I asked Zajdel if she had any advice for students interested in pursuing Arts Administration. She matter-of-factly responded, “Just don’t give up.” Zajdel sent in roughly 50 applications within a year before acquiring her current position. She mused that, although the rejections hurt, not every job you apply for and want is the right job for you. Zajdel emphasized, “No matter how many rejections you get… you just have to keep going and waiting for the right job and the right person to relate to you [when reading your application materials].”

She also stressed the importance of researching not just the organization but also the individuals you’re applying to. Zajdel stated, “If you can find one thing to connect with on, chances are they’re going to be like ‘that really reminds me of me’ and you are going to get an interview.” She highlighted that the best way to achieve this connection is through your cover letter, urging students who are about to enter the workforce to “make yourself a person, not just a piece of paper.”

Resources for Aspiring Teachers: WECAN Overview

Are you dreaming of shaping young minds and making a difference in the world of education? If so, you might want to check out the Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN). This website is a goldmine for aspiring teachers, offering a plethora of resources to help you kickstart your career. Let’s dive into what WECAN has to offer and how you can make the most of it.

What is WECAN?

WECAN is an online platform that connects school districts in Wisconsin with aspiring teachers and other education professionals. It was launched in 2001 to streamline the hiring process and make it easier for educators to find job opportunities across the state. Today, WECAN serves over 500 schools annually, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to enter the teaching profession.

Resources Available on WECAN

  1. Job Listings:
    • WECAN provides a comprehensive list of job openings in K-12 schools across Wisconsin. You can search for positions by keyword, location, and job type, making it easy to find opportunities that match your interests and qualifications.
  2. Application Process:
    • The website offers an online employment application system. You can create an account, upload your resume, and apply for multiple positions with just a few clicks. This centralized system simplifies the application process and ensures that your information is easily accessible to potential employers.
  3. Professional Development:
    • WECAN also provides resources for professional growth, including workshops, training sessions, and networking events. These opportunities allow you to enhance your skills, stay updated with the latest educational trends, and connect with other professionals in the field.
  4. Support Services:
    • The website offers guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and career counseling. These resources are invaluable for new teachers who are navigating the job market for the first time.

Why WECAN is Helpful for Aspiring Teachers

  1. Streamlined Job Search:
    • WECAN simplifies the job search process by providing a centralized platform for finding and applying for teaching positions. This saves you time and effort compared to searching for jobs individually on various school district websites.
  2. Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities:
    • With over 500 schools participating, WECAN offers a diverse array of job opportunities across Wisconsin. Whether you’re interested in teaching in urban or rural areas, elementary or high school education, WECAN has something for everyone.
  3. Professional Networking:
    • The platform allows you to connect with other educators, attend professional development events, and build a network of contacts in the education field. Networking is crucial for career advancement and can open doors to new opportunities.

How to Utilize WECAN Effectively

  1. Create a Profile:
    • Start by creating a detailed profile on WECAN. Include your resume, a professional photo, and a brief bio highlighting your teaching philosophy and experience.
  2. Set Up Job Alerts:
    • Use the job alert feature to receive notifications about new job postings that match your criteria. This ensures that you never miss out on potential opportunities.
  3. Apply for Multiple Positions:
    • Don’t limit yourself to just one or two applications. Apply for multiple positions to increase your chances of landing a job. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
  4. Participate in Professional Development:
    • Take advantage of the professional development resources offered by WECAN. Attend workshops, webinars, and networking events to enhance your skills and expand your professional network.
  5. Stay Organized:
    • Keep track of the positions you’ve applied for, follow-up dates, and any communication with potential employers. Staying organized will help you manage your job search more effectively.

Final Thoughts

The Wisconsin Education Career Access Network is an invaluable tool for aspiring teachers. By providing a streamlined job search process, access to a wide range of opportunities, and professional development resources, WECAN helps you take the first steps toward a rewarding career in education. So, dive in, explore the resources, and start your journey to becoming an inspiring educator!

Online Sources:

  1. Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN)
  2. WECAN Job Postings
  3. Professional Development Resources

Getting Involved in Social Impact in College

Are you passionate about making a difference and leaving a positive mark on the world? Then, diving into social impact activities at Lawrence might be just the thing for you! Let’s chat about what social impact is and how you can get involved in various causes, from gender rights to civil rights and beyond.

What is Social Impact?

Social impact refers to efforts aimed at improving societal well-being and driving positive change. It involves addressing pressing social issues and advocating for a more just and equitable world. Whether it’s through community-based projects or student-focused initiatives, social impact activities empower individuals to contribute to meaningful causes and make a difference in their communities.

Getting Involved on Campus

1. Join or Start a Student Organization in Support of:

  • Gender Rights: Advocate for gender equality, host discussions on women’s rights, and organize events for International Women’s Day.
  • LGBTQIA+ and Trans Rights: Support and empower LGBTQIA+ and trans students, organize Pride Week, and provide educational workshops on LGBTQIA+ issues.
  • Civil Rights: Promote civil rights education, organize marches and rallies, and collaborate with local civil rights organizations.
  • Environmental Justice and Sustainability: Focus on issues like climate change, pollution, and sustainability. Organize campus clean-ups, tree-planting events, and awareness campaigns.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Provide support and resources for mental health, host stress-relief activities, and collaborate with campus counseling services.
  • Racial Equity: Advocate for racial justice, host diversity and inclusion workshops, and support anti-racism initiatives on campus.
  • Disability Advocacy: Promote accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities, organize awareness events, and work with administration to improve campus facilities.
  • Human Rights: Focus on a broad range of human rights issues, such as refugee rights, freedom of speech, and international human rights violations. Host educational events and support global causes.
  • Economic Justice: Address issues related to economic inequality, such as affordable housing, living wages, and food security. Organize fundraisers and volunteer at local shelters and food banks.
  • Sexual Assault Awareness: Raise awareness about sexual assault and harassment, provide support for survivors, and work to create a safer campus environment through education and advocacy.

2. Participate in Community-Based Projects:

  • Volunteer at Local Shelters: Help out at women’s shelters, LGBTQIA+ safe houses, local food banks, or homeless shelters to support vulnerable populations.
  • Community Clean-Up Drives: Organize or join clean-up efforts in local parks and neighborhoods to promote environmental sustainability.
  • Tutoring and Mentoring Programs: Provide academic support and mentorship to underprivileged students in your community.

3. Engage in Activism and Advocacy:

  • Petitions and Campaigns: Start or support petitions addressing social justice issues, such as police reform or environmental protection.
  • Peaceful Protests and Rallies: Participate in or organize peaceful protests to raise awareness about important social issues.
  • Policy Advocacy: Work with local government officials or advocacy groups to influence policy changes that promote social justice.

4. Attend Workshops and Seminars:

  • Educational Workshops: Attend workshops on topics like intersectionality, implicit bias, and allyship to deepen your understanding of social justice issues.
  • Guest Speaker Events: Listen to guest speakers who are activists, scholars, and leaders in various social justice movements.
  • Skill-Building Seminars: Participate in seminars that teach skills like community organizing, public speaking, and effective advocacy.

5. Collaborate with Campus Departments:

  • Diversity and Inclusion Office: Partner with your college’s diversity office to develop programs and initiatives that promote inclusivity and equity on campus.
  • Service-Learning Courses: Enroll in courses that incorporate community service and social impact projects into the curriculum.
  • Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty on research projects that focus on social justice issues and contribute to scholarly work in the field.

Examples of Social Issues to Get Involved In

1. Gender Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Gender pay gap, reproductive rights, gender-based violence.
  • Activities: Host panel discussions, create awareness campaigns, support women’s rights organizations.

2. LGBTQIA+ and Trans Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Discrimination, mental health support, legal protections.
  • Activities: Organize Pride events, provide safe spaces on campus, advocate for inclusive policies.

3. Civil Rights:

  • Issues to Address: Racial discrimination, voting rights, criminal justice reform.
  • Activities: Hold voter registration drives, participate in civil rights marches, collaborate with civil rights organizations.

4. Environmental Justice:

  • Issues to Address: Climate change, pollution, sustainability.
  • Activities: Conduct environmental awareness campaigns, organize tree-planting events, advocate for green policies.

5. Mental Health Awareness:

  • Issues to Address: Stigma, access to mental health services, student well-being.
  • Activities: Create mental health support groups, host stress-relief events, partner with counseling services.

Final Thoughts

Getting involved in social impact activities on campus is a fantastic way to make a positive difference, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded peers. Whether you’re passionate about gender rights, LGBTQIA+ and trans rights, civil rights, or other social issues, there are countless ways to contribute and drive change.

Teacher License Reciprocity

Making Moves Across States!

Ever wondered what happens if you want to teach in a different state from where you got your teaching license? That’s where teacher license reciprocity comes in. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is Teacher License Reciprocity?

Teacher license reciprocity means that if you have a teaching license in one state, you can get a license to teach in another state. But, it’s not as simple as just trading one license for another. Each state has its own rules and requirements, so you’ll need to meet those specific criteria to get your new license.

How Does It Work?

  1. Check Reciprocity Agreements: Some states have agreements with other states to make the process easier. The most well-known agreement is the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which helps streamline the process.
  2. Apply for a New License: You’ll need to apply for a teaching license in the new state. The state will review your application to see if you meet their requirements.
  3. Meet State-Specific Requirements: Depending on the state, you might need to take additional coursework, pass certain exams, or provide proof of your teaching experience.

Why is Reciprocity Important?

Reciprocity helps fill teaching positions with qualified candidates, making it easier for teachers to move across states without starting from scratch. It also helps address teacher shortages in different areas.

Special Cases

  • Military Spouses: Some states offer special reciprocity for military spouses to help them continue their teaching careers while moving frequently.
  • Experienced vs. Inexperienced Teachers: Some states have different requirements based on your teaching experience.

So, if you’re planning to move and keep teaching, check out the reciprocity guidelines for your new state. It might make your transition smoother and help you continue making a difference in students’ lives.

Online Sources:

  1. 50-State Comparison: Teacher License Reciprocity
  2. Teaching License Reciprocity Guidelines by State
  3. Teacher License Reciprocity: State Profiles

The Role of an Archivist: Guardians of History and Cultural Memory

Archivists are the stewards of history, tasked with preserving and organizing records, documents, and artifacts that are crucial to understanding the past. These professionals work behind the scenes to ensure that valuable information is accessible for future generations, maintaining society’s collective memory and contributing to research, education, and cultural preservation.

While the role of an archivist may not always be in the public eye, their work is essential for documenting history, supporting research, and preserving the identity of communities, organizations, and institutions.

An archivist is responsible for the acquisition, preservation, organization, and management of records, both physical and digital. These records can range from historical documents, letters, and photographs to digital files, audio-visual material, and physical artifacts. Archivists work in a wide variety of institutions, including libraries, museums, government agencies, universities, corporations, and non-profits.

Archivists serve as the guardians of society’s collective memory. Without them, valuable historical records would be lost or deteriorate, leaving gaps in the documentation of history. Their work is especially important in preserving records related to marginalized or underrepresented groups, ensuring that diverse perspectives are maintained in the historical narrative.

Some of the key responsibilities of an archivist include:

Appraisal and Acquisition: Archivists evaluate documents and records to determine their historical, legal, or cultural value. They decide which materials should be preserved and added to the collection, ensuring that they reflect the full spectrum of society’s experiences and histories.

Preservation and Conservation: A major part of an archivist’s job is to preserve records in their original format or convert them into digital form to ensure longevity. They may use specialized conservation techniques to prevent physical deterioration, such as climate control for delicate paper or restoring old photographs.

Organization and Cataloging: Archivists organize records in a way that makes them easily searchable and accessible. This often involves creating detailed descriptions and metadata so that researchers, historians, or the public can locate relevant materials in a collection.

Digital Archiving: In today’s digital age, archivists are increasingly responsible for managing digital records and ensuring long-term digital preservation. This includes maintaining databases, creating digital copies of physical records, and safeguarding digital-born materials such as emails, social media records, and digital media.

Access and Reference Services: Archivists play a vital role in helping people access the materials they need. They assist researchers, historians, and the general public in navigating collections, answering questions, and locating specific documents or artifacts.

Outreach and Education: Many archivists engage in public outreach to raise awareness of the collections under their care. They may organize exhibitions, workshops, or talks to showcase the materials they preserve, making history accessible to a broader audience. Archivists also collaborate with educators to incorporate archival materials into teaching and research.

Archivists also play a critical role in:

Supporting Research: Historians, scholars, and journalists rely on archivists to help them access primary sources for their work. Without archivists to maintain and organize collections, research into history, culture, politics, and science would be far more difficult and incomplete.

Cultural Preservation: By preserving art, literature, and other cultural materials, archivists help maintain the identity and heritage of communities and nations. Their work ensures that cultural traditions and legacies are passed on to future generations.

Legal and Administrative Accountability: Archivists are often involved in the preservation of legal, governmental, and administrative records, helping to ensure accountability and transparency. These records can include everything from court documents and governmental records to corporate reports and legal contracts.

Becoming an archivist requires a blend of specific skills and knowledge, particularly in history, technology, and preservation methods. Some of the essential qualifications and skills include:

Education: Most archivists hold a master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) or a similar field, with a specialization in archives and records management. Some archivists may also have backgrounds in history, museum studies, or digital curation.

Attention to Detail: Archivists must be highly detail-oriented as they work with fragile, valuable, and often complex records. Cataloging and preserving these materials requires a careful, methodical approach.

Technical Skills: Increasingly, archivists need strong technical skills to manage digital collections. Knowledge of digital preservation software, metadata standards, and database management is essential for handling born-digital records.

Research Skills: Archivists must be able to assess the historical value of records and artifacts, understand their context, and connect them to broader historical themes.

Problem-Solving Abilities: Archival work often involves tackling challenges such as conserving fragile items, organizing large collections, and digitizing old records. Creativity and problem-solving skills are important when working in diverse archival environments.

While archivists play a vital role in preserving history, their work is not without challenges. Some of the key issues faced by archivists today include:

Preserving Digital Records: As more information is generated and stored digitally, archivists face the complex challenge of managing digital files that may become obsolete or degrade over time. Ensuring long-term digital preservation requires constant attention to evolving technologies and formats.

Funding and Resource Limitations: Many archival institutions operate with limited funding, which can affect the ability to acquire new materials, invest in preservation technologies, or hire additional staff. This makes it difficult for archivists to maintain and expand collections, particularly for smaller institutions.

Balancing Access with Preservation: Archivists must balance making records accessible to the public with the need to preserve them for future generations. Overuse of fragile materials can lead to damage, while overly restrictive access policies can hinder research and education.

Diversity and Representation: Historically, archival collections have often been biased toward documenting the lives and experiences of powerful or prominent individuals and institutions. Modern archivists are working to correct this by actively seeking materials that represent a wider range of voices, including those of marginalized or underrepresented groups.

Archivists also play a crucial role in preserving the growing volume of information produced by social media, email, and other digital communication platforms. These digital records present new ethical and technical considerations, such as privacy concerns and data security.

Being an archivist is a unique and rewarding career that combines historical preservation, research, and public service. Archivists serve as the gatekeepers of history, ensuring that vital records, documents, and cultural materials are preserved for future generations. As the profession evolves to meet the challenges of the digital age, archivists will continue to play a crucial role in shaping how society remembers its past and plans for the future.

Lobbying and Advocacy: How Students Can Get Involved Before and After Graduation

Lobbying and advocacy are powerful tools for influencing public policy and creating positive change in society. College students, often passionate about various causes, have unique opportunities to engage in these activities while still in school and continue their efforts after graduation. Whether advocating for environmental protection, social justice, or education reform, students can make a significant impact by understanding the mechanics of lobbying and getting involved early in their careers.

Lobbying refers to the process of attempting to influence legislators, policymakers, or other government officials to enact, amend, or oppose specific laws or regulations. Lobbyists represent various organizations, interest groups, or individuals and work to ensure that the voices of their clients are heard in the legislative process. Lobbying can take many forms, such as meeting with lawmakers, writing policy proposals, organizing grassroots campaigns, or testifying at public hearings.

Lobbying is often associated with corporate or professional lobbyists, but students and ordinary citizens can also engage in lobbying through grassroots efforts, advocacy groups, or individual actions.

Why Should College Students Get Involved in Lobbying?

Making a Difference: Lobbying allows students to influence policies that impact their communities, educational institutions, or areas of personal concern, such as climate change, student loan reform, or civil rights.

Developing Leadership Skills: Advocacy work helps students develop essential skills like public speaking, critical thinking, and networking. These skills are valuable in any career and can set students apart in the job market.

Networking and Professional Opportunities: Getting involved in lobbying can connect students with professionals in government, law, non-profits, and other fields, offering networking opportunities that may lead to internships or jobs.

Civic Engagement: Lobbying helps students become more informed and engaged citizens, empowering them to participate actively in the democratic process.

Ways to Get Involved in Lobbying and Advocacy Before Graduation

Join or Form Advocacy Groups on Campus: Joining student-led organizations that focus on political or social issues can provide an immediate opportunity to engage in lobbying efforts, such as organizing petitions, holding rallies, or writing letters to lawmakers. If no group exists for your cause, consider starting one yourself.

Intern with Advocacy Organizations or Non-Profits: Many non-profit organizations focus on advocacy and lobbying for specific issues. These organizations often offer internships or volunteer opportunities for students interested in making a difference. By interning, you’ll gain firsthand experience in lobbying strategies, campaign planning, and policy analysis.

Participate in Student Government: Running for student government can help students learn the basics of governance, decision-making, and advocating for their peers. This experience can translate into future lobbying efforts and provides an understanding of how institutional policies are created and changed.

Attend Town Halls and Public Hearings: Many local governments and universities hold public hearings and town halls where citizens, including students, can voice their concerns and opinions on policies. Attending these events is a direct way to engage with lawmakers and practice speaking on issues that matter to you.

Engage in Grassroots Campaigns: Grassroots lobbying involves mobilizing public opinion and using collective action to influence policy. This can include organizing petitions, phone banks, social media campaigns, or protests. Many national and local organizations rely on grassroots advocacy to amplify their voices, and students can play an essential role in these campaigns.

Take Advocacy or Political Science Classes: Enroll in public policy, political science, or advocacy classes that give you an academic understanding of how the legislative process works and the role of lobbying in that process. These classes often include simulations or projects that give students practical lobbying experience.

For students passionate about continuing their advocacy work after graduation, several career paths align closely with lobbying and public policy.

Work for Advocacy Groups or Non-Profits: Many students transition from college activism into professional roles within advocacy groups, non-profits, or NGOs. These organizations often need policy analysts, lobbyists, and campaign organizers to advocate for their causes at local, state, and national levels.

Government Jobs: Working in government, whether at the federal, state, or local level, provides an opportunity to influence policy from the inside. Many graduates go on to work as legislative aides, policy advisors, or analysts in government agencies, helping to shape policy directly.

Corporate Lobbying and Public Affairs: Corporations and industry groups hire lobbyists to advocate for policies that favor their business interests. Public affairs professionals often engage with lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and the public to shape policies that impact their companies. This can be a lucrative career path for those interested in the intersection of business and politics.

Political Campaigns: Graduates interested in political advocacy can also work for political candidates, parties, or issue-based campaigns. Many political jobs involve lobbying efforts to get candidates elected or advocate for specific legislative changes.

Law and Policy School: For students who want to deepen their understanding of law and policy, attending law school or pursuing a graduate degree in public policy is another route to professional lobbying. Lawyers often work as lobbyists, using their legal expertise to draft legislation, influence policy, or represent clients in regulatory matters.

Starting a Grassroots Organization: Some students may be so passionate about a cause that they start their own non-profit or advocacy group after graduation. With crowdfunding, social media, and grassroots mobilization strategies, it’s easier than ever to create movements that impact policy at local or national levels.

Tips for Success in Lobbying and Advocacy

Stay Informed: Keep up with the news, read about policy changes, and stay engaged with current events. Being well-informed is crucial for anyone involved in lobbying or advocacy.

Build Relationships: Whether you’re advocating as a student or professional, building relationships with legislators, influencers, and other advocates is key to successful lobbying. Networking and personal connections can open doors and amplify your voice.

Be Persistent and Patient: Policy change often takes time, and lobbying can be a slow process. Persistence and patience are essential qualities for successful advocates.

Develop Communication Skills: Lobbying involves a lot of communication—whether you’re writing letters, speaking at public hearings, or organizing a campaign. Develop strong written and oral communication skills to effectively present your case and persuade others.

Lobbying and advocacy offer college students a meaningful way to engage with the world, influence policy, and create lasting change. By getting involved before graduation, students can develop critical skills, build valuable networks, and gain firsthand experience in shaping public policy. After graduation, many career opportunities exist for those who want to continue their work in advocacy, whether through non-profits, government, or corporate lobbying.

Taking action on the issues you care about now, whether through grassroots organizing or direct engagement with policymakers, allows you to contribute to a better future—and it just might shape the course of your career.