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Tue Dec 12, 2006 10:41 am  |
Okay, I'm going absolutely nuts here!  I'm in healthcare management and want out. I have a BS in vet/human medicine and a MHA. When I took an indepth online career test, 3 out of 5 were design type jobs. I do LOVE to be creative (i.e. photo editing, special effects makeup...Reagan!) but I don't have any real education in it, other than completely learning these things on my own. My friend is in production and helps put together catalogs, which I find fascinating as well.
Another dream of mine is to work with animals, but as I've mentioned before there is very little pay in those jobs. I don't need a ton of money but being single with a mortgage I do have a minimum and all animal jobs I've seen don't meet it. Travel is another passion but again travel agents don't tend to make much either and I absolutely HATE sales (not that selling vacations is that bad...it's the forceful/pushy type of sales I hate).
So, given all of that, does anyone have an idea for me? I'm going nuts trying to figure out my dream job and thought that maybe my wonderful EDS family can help me. TIA!
Kelli |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 11:31 am |
hi tamgirl99--i remember awhile back you mentioned the same career decision problem. would you ever consider going back to school or is that water under the bridge? i am in law school at the moment and there are quite a few students who are entering law as a second career. perhaps vet school? i would love to see more sensitive and caring vets, i run into the biggest money grubbing bunch!
also, one of my good friends is a makeup artist without any real formal training--she has just always loved doing makeup. she is now a makeup artist for playboy and MAC and she has just launched her own makeup line.
I hope that helps! |
_________________
about to hit my 40s, retin-a user, differin, LRP |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 12:16 pm |
Thanks skincareaddicted! And yes, I've had this delimna for a while now and still haven't figured it all out so I thought I'd see if anyone else might have come up with something  . I'm not completely opposed to going back to school, but the problem has more to do with how long I'd have to go back for and how I'd have to take out a loan to do so. And vet school isn't an option for me really, not that I still want to do that anyway. It's too tough to get into in Texas with there being only one school and all (GIG'EM!!!).
After that career test really pointed me in the design direction, that's why I'm now really looking into that field. Of course there are a million things to do with design, so I need to narrow it down. That's so great about your friend working her way as a makeup artist, but for the kind I would want to do I think it would be much harder to get into since it's limited to film/theater/etc. Of course right now I do have the connections to help me out in that field, so I may have to look into it a bit more. I just don't like the idea of freelancing, since my 401k and health benefits sure are nice! Are you starting to see my delimna now? |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 12:50 pm |
You sound JUST like me!
I thought about going to vet school so worked at a veterinary hospital - nope, can't deal with idiot owners.
Then I went into the medical device/biotech industry writing FDA submissions. Then got into medical marketing. I'm a Creative Services/Marketing Communications manager.
Since you're already in healthcare - you could look at creative services/interactive/design type of positions specific to the industry. |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 1:06 pm |
Hi Tamgirl,
I was in a similar situation and went to a career coach to figure out what I could do that encompassed my work experience and education. I didn't continue, because I realized what I'd like to do on my own, but it might be an avenue worth following. |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 2:53 pm |
| Rjez wrote: |
| Since you're already in healthcare - you could look at creative services/interactive/design type of positions specific to the industry. |
Well, at least you figured it out! Can you tell me more about where to look for these types of positions or what this includes?
Skincarefreak - thanks for the tip! I've been thinking about that myself and will definitely look into it. By the way, what did you end up doing?
Something I discovered early that sounds pretty interesting is Holistic Animal Care. I'm going to do a bit of research to see what I can find on it. Does anyone else know about this field?
I also emailed my friend that produces catalogs to see if she can get me any part-time work to see if I like it. I think I just need to look into every avenue right now a bit more before I can really decide. Thanks everyone...keep the suggestions coming! |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 3:17 pm |
| TAMgirl99 wrote: |
| Can you tell me more about where to look for these types of positions or what this includes? |
Well - I started in a biotech startup - when the CEO needed a powerpoint presentation I was the only employee who wasn't a PhD AND who liked to draw so I was artistic. I became a self-trained designer and I've also done a ton of websites (do some programming too).
When I hire print designers - having healthcare background isn't as important but it is when I look for other creative services like web and multimedia development. Regulatory and FDA experience makes final approvals easier. (i.e., you're used to a ton of redtape and argueing for each word). Having experience in the healthcare industry is always a plus.
General marketing and PR - You could look into companies AND agencies. Pharma, medical device, biotech - all want medical experience/exposure from their agencies. Can't do the same PR for high-tech as you do for a pharma company. Same thing with putting together an integrated marketing campaign. It's different selling to physicians or hospital administrators.
You could also look into cosmetic and skincare companies. I do. Again, any experience in healthcare is seen as a plus.
In college I read a book called "What color is your parachute". Many people thought it was helpful.
| TAMgirl99 wrote: |
| Something I discovered early that sounds pretty interesting is Holistic Animal Care. I'm going to do a bit of research to see what I can find on it. Does anyone else know about this field? |
There are different areas of this field, everything from holistic nutritionists, to holistic vets, acupuncture and even physical therapy. Where are you located? Your best bet is to find a holistic vet and ask for names of people to talk to. I belong to a killer dog nutrition/training board so you can either join or I can ask around - just let me know where you live. |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 4:15 pm |
| Thanks Rjez! I'm in Dallas. I was looking into equine/canine massage therapy and it sounds pretty interesting. I'll have to poll a few boards to find out if there is a need for those services though. I would think the equine therapy would be big here, but you never really know. |
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Tue Dec 12, 2006 8:04 pm |
Rjez,
I work as a scientist/project manager at an international biotech company right now and have done an advanced specialty in clinical research and regulatory affairs, I was interested in getting specialized in FDA and IND submissions- how did you like it?
And can you suggest what i would need to do education wise to go that path?
thanks
CG |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 10:28 am |
Canadian Girl - It's actually been years since I was involved with FDA/SBIR/IRB submissions.
I liked it but eventually you'll probably want to advance into the Clinical or Regulatory field from there. I didn't want to do that and ended up in Medical Marketing Communications.
To the FDA I've worked on PMAs (pre-market approvals for Class II and Class III medical devices) and IRBs (Investigational Review Board - at hospitals) and 510(k)s (medical device approval that doesn't need the lengthy PMA).
I didn't work in pharmaceuticals so didn't work on INDs of Phase filing.
One huge piece of advice I can give you: Pharma is very cliqueish. Meaning, once you're in a mid-level position, you NEED pharma experience to get into a pharma company. They rarely consider medical device experience as acceptable.
On the other hand, Med Dev will consider med dev and pharma.
Therefore, in the real world, pharma experience carries more "clout".
Anyway, this is getting lengthy so if you want to talk more, feel free to send me a PM and we can talk more details. |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 12:52 pm |
Skincarefreak - thanks for the tip! I've been thinking about that myself and will definitely look into it. By the way, what did you end up doing?
lol well....I've been a school counselor for 5 years and was looking for a way to own my own business and use my M.A. I went to the career coach and we briefly discussed different avenues and I guess she and I were on the same wavelength, because we both stated that I could do what she does. I will be starting a class that will certify me for being a Master Career Development Coach this coming February.
If you'd like thewww.ncda.org has career coaches that you can find in your area.
It took me a long time, to realize what else I can do. It is a journey so good luck |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 2:40 pm |
Well, my friend called me last night to let me know that the marketing company she works for is currently hiring. SO...I'm throwing a letter to go with my resume to give her. She said there are other non-marketing type jobs there that I could maybe get and then learn my way to something in that arena...something along the creative side. I figure it's worth a shot if nothing else.
I need some advice though. Since I want to get into the design stuff eventually, should I mention my personal experience with photo editing in the cover letter or resume? Since I don't have any professional experience/training with it I just wasn't sure if it was appropriate, or to wait until I get a potential interview and mention it then. If I do add it, where do I fit it in without being so obvious or unprofessional? I'm thinking of bringing a couple of photos I edited if I do get an interview, even though I'm sure they won't be considering me for that kind of work...yet. I will probably email them to my friend as well. Any other thoughts or ideas???
I worked in a copy center for over a year, but that was in grad school and don't think that really applies to this, but it might from their perspective since it was a major reproduction business. Should I mention that as well, or put it in the resume? I'm just so confused since it was a while ago...1999-2000. |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 2:50 pm |
| Do you have a qualifications section? You could place it there? Can you chronologically place it on your resume or would it be out of place? The things that I couldn't list on my resume but I wanted my employer to know, I listed on my cover letter. |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 2:53 pm |
| TAMgirl99 wrote: |
I worked in a copy center for over a year, but that was in grad school and don't think that really applies to this, but it might from their perspective since it was a major reproduction business. Should I mention that as well, or put it in the resume? I'm just so confused since it was a while ago...1999-2000. |
I think you should add it if your job history/refrences are good no matter if it applies or not. DH is a Technical Editor(being in Dallas Im sure you know the company but I dont want to post it here.)currently but, still puts on his resume that he worked at a coffee shop off and on...
Companies like to know what you were up too for long periods of time. So nosey! |
_________________
27~Texas~Oily~ fair~ breakout prone~ easily congested~Cysts caused by emotional stress~ Using Ayurvedic skin care and philosophy~ Dry brushing body and face~ On strict less is more routine~ We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars~ Oscar Wilde |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 3:09 pm |
| You can also try sectioning it off as related experience on your resume. |
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Wed Dec 13, 2006 3:15 pm |
| It sounds to me like you could make a good horse whisperer. You could start out slowly, build your name by word of mouth and perhaps create a website. You would combine your vet practice and compassion for animals and I think just a few courses could help you on your way. |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 8:28 am |
lol smoothskin. I'm actually looking into equine massage therapy as well. I figure in Dallas there would probably be a lot of need, especially given the race track, equestrian shows, etc. There are a lot of testimonials out there on how it has greatly helped their health and well being. They also have massage therapy for dogs, which I would love, but I think there is more need for horses here. I could be wrong all together and it might be a stupid idea, but it sure would be a fun, relaxing and rewarding job! And...no boss!!!
Okay, back to my resume/letter. I think I will go ahead and put the copy center part on there in some format, but what about the experience with photo-editing? I sent the before/after pics to my friend, but she's not making the decision to hire me or not. I guess I should just mention it somewhere in the cover letter? |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 8:29 am |
I clicked "submit" before I got to thank everyone for their help. Thank you!!!!  |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 10:42 am |
TAMgirl - I heard that there are seminars in canine/equine acupressure and massage therapy. A sister of a board member took the course but unfortunately live in a low density city where it's just not a feasible profession. You could also call local vets and find a holistic vet to recommend a practice to talk to. Although not holistic, I know an orthopedic specialist (veterinarian) who recommends an acupunturist AND someone who does water therapy. Both of these places have high volume of clients/patients in the San Francisco peninsula area so I think Dallas would be even greater.
Re: your coverletter. You want to stand out from the crowd. 1. your friend. mention her so you already have a "hook" and positive reference. 2. I'd mention the photo-editing. It's a relevant skill and the point of the cover letter is to show you have relevant skills to get that interview. 3. not too keen on the copy center. It would be great if you could list job description. You could make the experience relevant for experience in high-pressure/high-volume, file formatting, etc. But you want to be sure you're mentioning something they WANT.
I've read quite a few tips and what really sticks out are: a company WANTS to hire someone as quickly as possible - they WANT you to be a perfect fit. Your job is to show them how you will fit their needs. Read the job description carefully and tell them what you can do for them. For example, if they're asking for someone to work on the Mac - it's not relevant to tell them how much experience you have on the PC. You CAN, however, tell them how quickly you've picked up training and where PC-->Mac experience is relevant. |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 3:19 pm |
Thanks Rjez! I guess I forgot to mention that I have no idea what positions they are actually hiring for, just that they are. There's nothing posted on their site but that's what my friend who talked to the owner told me. And I defintely plan to use her name!
This is why I'm having a hard time with it I guess, b/c I really don't know what they want. I think I've decided to put my copy center job in the work experience part of my resume and list certain responsibilities that are similar to other publication jobs. Once I get in there though I may decide to pull it if I can't support it with much. I'll also plan to mention the photo editing in the letter as well. I might put it in my resume under a category like "Personal interests and activities" or something to that effect.
Okay just 2 more questions and then I'll be done. Internet advice recommends that you personalize the letter by addressing it to a specific person, not a position (i.e. Mr. Jones versus Dear HR Manager). However, I don't know the HR manager just the name of the owner. So which should I use?
Second, I'm sending it to my friend via email. Do you think it's a big deal that the letter won't have a signature?
Okay I promise that's it. I'm sending it to her tonight so wish me luck!!! Thanks again everyone! |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 4:14 pm |
TAMgirl99
--- Perhaps you should format your resume into a functional vs. chronological order? That way you can list relevant qualifications like: Problem-solving, detail-oriented, multi-tasking, etc. and give examples. Pointing out skills that would be a benefit to any company and how you could help them.
--- Be sure to keep copies of EVERY resume you send out. It won't look good if they pull out a copy of your resume and it's different than what you brought in to the interview. Or, they ask about something specific on the resume and you don't remember the phrase.
--- Personally, I'd skip the 'personal interests'. I dunno, I always think it's filler. When I'm the hiring manager, I don't care about their hobbies. Some people say that it shows if their personality, etc. but I never see a connection.
--- I remember one manager who asked my candidate about her car and hobbies. She didn't like my candidate because her personal answers seemed disorganized and too filled with personal hobbies. I hired her anyway and everyone agreed she was the best employee the company ever had.
--- Great job on your research. YES, always personalize a cover letter. I give extra credit for those who do their research and find out names. If you don't know the hiring manager, I'd say go ahead and use the owner's name. That, combined with your friend's name will indicate some familiarity or research. No name will look lazy.
---Good luck! |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 4:40 pm |
Hey T,
Regarding the animal health field, I highly recommend the water therapy that Rjez mentioned.
A friend of mine who studied theraputic pet massage was never able to go anywhere with it. There are a couple of places in the Seattle area that are doing water therapy for dogs, and they are kicking ass. The big investment is a stationary lap pool, with salt water (I believe) heated to 90F.
One reason that it is popular is because older, sore, or injured dogs really respond quickly and well to the treatment. Happy dog owners then spread the word.
I think that another reason that it is a better bet is because it is easier for alot of people to wrap their minds around warm water therapy than massage and acupunture for pets. Of course, you could always offer those services additionally.
I'm looking for a new career, too. Years ago I got through college working as a dog bather. To this day it was the most enjoyable job I have ever had. (Hmmmmmm, maybe I should look into starting pet water therapy in my neck of the woods!  )
-- Bee |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 5:03 pm |
- to tag on to Bee's post -
Around here water therapy is huge for older dogs, physical therapy after surgery AND there are hours for dog-loving dogs to play in the pool. I talked to someone when we were looking into water pt for Koa (my big baby in the photo) had a pulled groin muscle (he seems to gravitate towards that "area"). Anyway, retriever owners loved the pool because it was clean and safe. Sort of like buying dog park time.
Not water therapy but I received another response from the dog board. There is a Lisa who started the Rocky Mountain school of animal massage and acupressure,www.rmsaam.com. They have distance learning. |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 5:30 pm |
--- ahhh, and yet another suggestion from the dog board ---
offers lots of education in regards to natural health including a certification course, "Holistic Care for Companion Animals"
http://www.ccnh.edu/programs/certificate.asp#animal |
_________________
mid 40's, Hawaiian/Japanese, combo skin, med/dark complexion. "If life hands you lemons, throw them at your enemies" |
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Thu Dec 14, 2006 7:26 pm |
Thanks everyone! Wow the water therapy sounds interesting. Does anyone have a good website? I'll do some searching myself.
Okay I finished the letter/resume and think it turned out okay. My friend is giving it to the soon-to-be owner and going to have him give it to HR directly. She thought that would get me a good push through the door. I guess we'll see!
Bee - Where are you located? Wanna move to Dallas and we can start a therapy business together?!? |
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