Q: What inspired you to write the book “Life After College”?

A: I always enjoyed writing, and I wanted to write a book ever since graduate school around 1995 or so. My business background is in training and consulting for sales and management, but frankly, there are already 10 million books on all those topics! I wanted to write something completely different, and something I had a true passion for. I also truly believe that there was a major void on this topic. Every college bookstore has dozens of books on “How to Write a Resume” and “How to Get a Job.” But, there is MUCH more to it than that!

Q: Where did the idea for the Life After College™ program first take off?

A: Certainly, I have stayed very involved speaking with college students since I graduated from undergraduate school back in 1994. I’ve spoken at freshman orientation, Parents Day, Greek events, etc… But, in 2001, I got the chance to create my own curriculum for a regional fraternity conference. I felt that one of the most important goals of campus organizations was to help students develop as people, or prepare them for “life after college.” I got such a great response from that program, we did it again next year, and it took off from there to benefit all college students.

Q: What’s the most important thing you try to convey to college students?

A: Wow. There are so many important things that can help them get ahead, such as networking, time management, strategic career planning, etc... But probably the most important things I tell them are what to AVOID, because what they don’t know CAN hurt them. A recent Harvard University study found that for every firing due to failure to perform, there are two firings due to personality conflicts and communication issues. In my programs, I discuss office politics, professionalism, ethics, drugs and alcohol in the workplace, and even the dangers of dating in the office and sexual harassment. It’s imperative that young professionals understand what the rules of the game are, and abide by those rules, so they don’t ruin their career before it even begins.

Q: What is one impact you want to have regarding career path decisions students have?

A: Think outside the box and consider non-traditional occupations. I thought success meant getting dressed up in a suit and tie, and driving to work in a big corporate building. But, sometimes there are many easier paths to success and happiness than working 40 years drudging up the corporate ladder. Also understand that success doesn’t necessarily equal money, but perhaps a desired lifestyle, and having a passion for doing something you enjoy everyday. Have you ever run into someone with such a unique career and wondered: “Wow, how in the world does someone get to do that for a living? Man, that guy’s got it made!” I always ask college students “Well, why can’t that be you?”

Q: What question do college students most often ask you?

A: You mean, besides “can you get me a job?” I would say they ask me what I think about specific fields, such as “What do you think about me wanting to become a pharmaceutical rep?” Now, I love being considered an expert on everything, but the fact is they are the ones that know what they enjoy in life, and what talents, skills, and knowledge they possess. They also should be acutely aware of industry trends, occupational outlooks, salary surveys, etc… within their field, but they are not! Certainly, I do give them heart-felt advice on many, many occupations and industries that I know about. But I implore them to become their own expert in their own field. Often times, college students are tired of learning, and they just want to “get a job.” Be strategic!

Q: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Certainly, there are a lot of “big ticket” items that my program covers in relation to that question. But for me, the biggest tip I wished I could have given myself was to stay organized and keep track of every person I came in contact with since college. Professionally speaking, there are a countless number of times I could have used someone’s help from networking. From a personal standpoint, I have met so many people whom I found interesting or just simply enjoyed their company. Yet today, I wouldn’t even know how to contact them. I would just like to hear from them and see how they are doing. Sometimes, it’s truly depressing! Time and people pass by so fast in life, and I don’t think college students realize that.

Q: What are your feelings about the job outlook?

A: Of course, that always depends on what industry and what major we’re discussing. I always keep a close eye on current job outlook, but frankly it’s often cyclical and patterns with the economy. It’s more fascinating for me stay in touch with trends and projections on specific industries and positions, and what the demand for those positions will be…say…10 years from now. College graduates need to see the big picture. For instance, jobs such as computer programming, scientific research, and even accounting functions have already begun to go overseas. I don’t see that trend reversing anytime soon. There is also a debate in the medical community on whether we will have a great shortage of doctors over the next 20 years. I wish college students kept better tabs on this type of information, even when they are originally deciding their major!

Q: What is your advice for students who are considering Graduate school?

A: Everyone should at least consider graduate school. What does consider mean? It means research the facts, and identify the pros and cons of the decision. Is the investment of your time, effort, and money worth it to your career? Depending on the field, it may or may not be. They should seek out those who already have a masters or doctorate degree. They should get input from HR managers and vice presidents of divisions and companies they want to work for. Ask these people how important earning a post-graduate degree is when they decide to hire and promote. They will get entirely different responses based on your industry and the degree. This is critical! Of course, many companies now offer some sort of tuition reimbursement program. If so, this is like “free money,” and an open opportunity to help advance your career. I took advantage of it…not just once, but twice!

Q: What do you remember most about being in college?

A: I had a BLAST in college! Can I go back and start over again? I’m a big believer in the saying “You get out of it what you put into it.” I was very involved in student government, fraternity life, campus events, intramural sports…you name it. I realize even today that the social and leadership skills I gained from college life will last me a lifetime. I’m very grateful for that, and I always try to encourage younger students to GET INVOLVED. They will grow in ways they may never know.

Q: What do you want to achieve personally through your book and your program?

A: I want to make an impact on people’s lives. I want to make them think. I want them to undertake a strategic plan for themselves and their future, based on what they value and what they enjoy in life. Where exactly do they want to be by age 25, age 30, or age 40, and how exactly are they going to get there? I truly believe in the message I have in both my book and my program, and it’s tremendously rewarding.