Name: Trisha Pedley
Year: Senior (Graduation date: June 2009)
Major: Human Development
Minor: Communications
Activities: Exploring new restaurants downtown with friends,
rooting for the San Francisco Giants, and attempting to play tennis.
Organizations: Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, Vice
President/Public Relations among other sorority leadership positions within Tri Delta
Past internships:
Event Marketing Intern, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital;
Counseling Intern, Harper Jr. High;
Communications Intern, the Governor’s Office
Why did you pick your major and continue to pursue it?
After jumping from major to major, I decided to stick with Human Development because I liked the broad scope of classes it offered. The courses presented a wide range of subject matter which was best for me since I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do for a career yet. Additionally, each class was interesting and everyone can relate something in their own life to any Human Development course. Also, Human Development was a great balance between science and psychology concepts-two interests of mine. My Communications minor was something I added my senior year to
prepare me for the job search and proved to be incredibly useful in everyday life.
What have you done to prepare for your future?
To prepare for the real world, I’ve looked into many different careers by talking to professionals in that field. Getting first-hand advice is vital in deciding what to do. By attending career fairs and career speed dating events, I was able to narrow down my long list of potential careers. Taking courses such as CMN 136: Organizational Communication prepared me for the workplace. Internship experience helped me immensely when it came to getting references and letters of recommendation.
What is one trait that your college experience has cultivated?
Balance! Being well-rounded is key in college and being able to juggle
academics, internships, work, and club commitments is an important
tool for success at Davis. For the majority of students, balance is
something you learn in high school, but only really get to put to use
in college because of the increased independence. More opportunities
to engage in clubs, activities, and internships create more choices,
thus staying balanced is imperative so that you don’t feel overwhelmed
with any one thing.
Be honest, how many times have you come into the Internship & Career Center (ICC)?
Probably enough that all of the advisors know my resume verbatim. Honestly, close to fifteen times!
Why or why not?
I wouldn’t have been so confident in interviews or in writing cover letters if it weren’t for the resources the ICC offers. Their staff is extremely knowledgeable about various internships and the current job market. Also, they offer great advice based upon former students’ experiences.
What is one thing at UC Davis that you wish you could have done?
I wish I would have attended more home athletic games. This year, I
started attending more games than in years past and all of them were
incredibly exciting. At each game, the Aggie Pack does a great job to
promote more student involvement and support for the athletes by
giving away creative prizes. Of course, it’s always fun to show pride
in your schools’ athletics with a group of friends. I wish the
administration would consider adopting more pre-game festivities, as
well. The college experience is enhanced by promoting team spirit,
which can be seen at other large universities.
What advice do you have for other students?
Be sure to get active on campus and build up your resume throughout your years here. Don’t leave it until the last minute. Leadership positions are more important than just being a member of a club-make the clubs you join work for your future. A strong resume can get your foot through the door for first-round interviews, thus it’s important to have someone with expert advice look it over before submitting it. Cover letters, too, can play a pivotal role in determining whether an employer notices you. I would suggest attending ICC workshops and career fairs. Additionally, come to the career fairs prepared. Dress the part and have a resume ready to distribute. Most importantly, gear yourself up for rejection. If you don’t get a particular internship or job, don’t give up.
Feeling like this guy lately? Whether you’re a graduating senior or an undergrad desperately seeking a part-time job or internship, know that you’re not alone.
Dear students,
Join us for “Careers in Accounting“