Find details on these
opportunities on our web
site under Grand Avenues.
Research and Program Development Project Coordinator
Sonoma County Economic Development Fellowship
Sonoma County , CA
Full Time, Contract Work
Deadline: 5/2/08
The Research and Program Development Project Coordinator will be responsible for developing and managing programs that support the local economic and employment bases. Work includes researching, surveying, and developing reports and databases on Sonoma County 's various economic sectors. This position will also be responsible for coordinating workforce advisory groups comprised of leaders from local businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and community groups. Must have: Excellent research, analytical, and writing skills; an interest in policy research and economic development; project management skills; and a commitment to public service.
Multiple Opportunities
Wells Fargo Bank
Multiple Locations, MN
Full Time – Deadline 5/3/08
Wells Fargo Bank Customer Service, Operations and Sales division has job openings in Minnesota. Interested Job Seekers: For a complete list of open positions, qualifications, and information about applying for a position, pelase visit: www.wellsfargo.com/careers .
Positions for summer experiences are also posted.
Account Development Representative
LightEdge Solutions, Inc.
Minneapolis, MN; Phoenix, AZ; Kansas City, MO; Omaha, NE
Full Time – Deadline: 5/3/08
The Account Development Representative will be responsible for new customer acquisition by presenting LightEdge's VoIP, Network and IT Services to potential small to medium businesses through a consultative sales approach. Comprehensive sales, territory management and technical training programs are provided. Base salary provided.
Youth Program Assistants
Pillsbury United Communities
St. Paul , MN
Summer Only - Full and Part Time Deadline: 5/6/08
Pillsbury United Communities offers high-quality, culturally relevant summer programs for youth ages 5-16 in north and south Minneapolis . The posting represents all open temporary positions including Behavior and Nutrition Specialist, Youth Specialists, Gym Attendants and others.
Employment Facilitator I (NET Job Bank-Career Laddering & Retention)
Pillsbury United Communities
Minneapolis , MN
Full Time – Deadline: 5/7/08
This is a community-based, venture orientated non-profit agency. The purpose is to help people out of poverty through developing strong relationships with individuals and their families. The foundation of the work originates with engaging and merging multiple constituencies: neighborhood residents, sister agencies, government bureaucracies, funding sources and anyone else who is interested in the health and viabilities of our communities.
Teen Outreach Program (TOP) Educator
Family & Children's Services
Minneapolis , MN
Full Time – Deadline: 5/7/08
Schedule and conduct educational/support groups in various community sites using established curricula. Participate in community events to promote youth's development of healthy behavior. Prepare materials and activities for group sessions. Coordinate youth service learning projects. Establish/maintain professional relationships with school personnel, students, other agencies and staff. Complete all required reports, statistical forms, and project records. Participate in agency committees and professional organizations.
Program Support Specialist
Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington , DC
Part Time – Deadline: 5/8/08
Must be U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
The SEC's mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. The agency seeks high-caliber professionals who share the same values of integrity, fairness, accountability, resourcefulness, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
Assistant Program Officer
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)
St. Paul , MN
Full Time – Deadline: 5/9/08
LISC seeks an individual to support the comprehensive development strategies in target neighborhoods; convening, education and advocacy work with LISC's partners; and impact and accountability efforts. Candidates from communities of color strongly encouraged to apply.
Recycling & Environmental Coordinator
Macalester-Groveland Community Council
St. Paul , MN
Full Time, Contract Work
Deadline: 5/9/08
Promote and maintain effective waste reduction and environmental programming in Macalester-Groveland; Coordinate yearly events that support the community council's goals and objectives such as the Neighborhood Cleanups and Home Improvement Fair; Participate on a staff team united to achieve the purpose and goals of the Macalester-Groveland Community Council through effective citizen participation efforts, programs, public communication and education.
Upcoming Events
SENIOR DROP-IN HOURS
Thursday, May 8
10 AM - 4 PM
Kagin Commons, 1st Floor
This is your last chance to take advantage of All-Day Drop-in Hours for Seniors. Visit the CDC and have your questions asked about resumes, job applications, assessments, interviews and more.
For a complete list of upcoming CDC programs and events, be sure to check out:
http://www.macalester.edu/cdc/events
/index.html
Beyond the Piggy Bank
Suggestion Box
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY
In college, your verbal style is probably fairly casual. When you start your career, you will need to be sure you are communicating on a professional level. Be careful what you say. Words are powerful, and you can't take them back. Take a moment to think about what you're going to say before you open your mouth. Don't blurt out your first thought, especially if you're frustrated, confused, or unsure of the facts. Communication is at the heart of everything we do. It can make or break your career.
(Source: Job Postings: Slam Dunk by Nancy Barry, April 2008, p. 16-17.)
Web Watch
THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO AT WORK
Check out this CNN web site for information on what not to do while at your internship or job this summer. Story highlights include:
-
Stealing is just a bad idea, the company doesn't “owe you” Post-its.
-
Blaming others for your mistakes will make you unpopular.
-
Don't turn your co-workers into your therapist.
-
Dress for work; don't undress for your boss and don't hit on employees
For more on this article, go to: http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING
/worklife/11/09/not.at.work/index.html
Mac Movies, Books & More
SIMPLE AND COMFORTING
The Next Best Thing: A Graduate's Journal (The Notebook Series)
Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Suess
The book critic would like to make two recommendations. Pulitzer Prize winners? Probably not. Life changing? Doubtful. Challenging? Nope. Thought provoking? Maybe. Fun? Yes!
One book has pictures. The other will make you look kind of cool, dashing down your deep and meaningful thoughts at the local coffee shop, preferably with a Gel pen in a funky color. Isn't that as good as it gets at this point in the semester?
Let's begin with Dr. Suess:
"And when things start to happen,
Don't worry. Don't stew,
Just go right along.
You'll start happening too."
Then on to Howard Zin, from a 2005 commencement speech at Spellman College:
“My hope is that
You will not be content
Just to be successful
In the way that our society
Measures success;
That you will not obey
The rules, when the rules
Are unjust; that you will act out the courage
That I know is in you."
The Suess book was given to my daughter many years ago, at her preschool graduation. It is easy and comforting in that Suessical way that brings all of us back to a simpler time. Back to the basics.
The Next Best Thing has plenty of space to journal, doodle, and list exciting destinations you wish to visit someday. The inspiring and fun quotes included range from Hermann Melville to Nelson Mandela.
The winter of 2008 is never-ending, papers are waiting to be written and you're still looking for summer housing. Simple and comforting seems like a good plan. Take a look at these books, and please remember, support your local independent bookstore.
Contributor: Mary Emanuelson, Assistant Director, CDC
The Career Development Center is here to assist students in planning, articulating and applying their educational experience to meet their future goals. The office is located on the first floor in Kagin Commons, and offers individual counseling sessions with a career counselor, an extensive career resource library, job/internship listings and opportunities from around the globe. The CDC resource library features: Information about Fellowships,
Internships and Job Postings; information on Companies and Government Opportunities; pamphlets and materials on resume and cover letter writing; books on etiquette, interviewing, grad school and the job search process; and an
extensive alumni directory, sorted by career.
SUMMER HOURS
(Effective 5/19/08 - 8/15/08)
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday through Thursday. Office will be closed on Fridays.
------------------------
REGULAR HOURS
8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday
(Daily Drop-ins between 2 to 4 PM)
-----------------------
Macalester College
Career Development Center
Kagin Commons
1600 Grand Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55105
(651) 696-6384
Fax: 651-696-6131
cdc@macalester.edu
http://www.macalester.edu/cdc
|
Counselor's Corner
CONGRATULATIONS
CLASS OF 2008!
With graduation coming, many of you are looking for positions, considering graduate schools and preparing for professional positions. The Career Development Center will be open over the summer to assist you in these areas and more.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER SUMMER HOURS
Monday through Thursday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Kagin Commons, First Floor Telephone (651) 696-6384
E-mail address: cdc@macalester.edu
Website: www.macalester.edu/cdc
If you are moving out-of-state and need assistance, feel free to send an e-mail or set up a telephone appointment. Remember, our services are always available to you as a Macalester alum. Congratulations!
(Also, be sure to stop by the CDC on Thursday, May 8 between
10 AM - 4 PM for All-Day Seniors Drop-in Hours. See Upcoming Events section of this newsletter.)
Contributor: Mary Emanuelson, Assistant Director, CDC
Senior S.L.A.M.
(Seeking Life After Macalester)
SENIOR STORY OF SUCCESS
By Victor Llanque Zonta, Macalester '08
Editor's Note:
Victor was offered a teaching position after participating in an application process with Carney Sandoe and Associates (http://www.carneysandoe.
com/about-csa). He will be working at Greens Farms Academy, an independent day school in Connecticut. http://www.gfacademy.org/pages/
sitepage.cfm?page=37762
Read more about his experience. Thanks for sharing your story, Victor, and CONGRATULATIONS!
"At a time where I was feeling very frustrated with my job search and unsure of what to do, where to look for a job, and who to ask for advice, getting placement assistance from CS&A was a bliss. The application process was a bit extensive and time consuming, but I only had to do it once. After that, CS&A forwarded my profile to every independent school that offered a position matching my interests and strengths. I also attended one of the many job fairs organized by CS&A. I went to the fair in New York City, which brought together independent schools from the entire country. The fair was three days long and I remember having interviews almost every other hour. One of the people who interviewed me said that the first thing that caught her eye when looking at my resume was Macalester College. In fact, every school principal or administrator that I talked to knew about Macalester and viewed this college very highly. Many schools invited me to visit them to continue with the application process, but I took an offer to be a Spanish and Economics high school teacher at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, CT. This school will not only allow me to gain exposure to a career in education, but it will also give me the opportunity to pursue a master's degree with partial financial support. The school also sponsors H1B visas, which is a great opportunity for international students interested in a career in education."
Contributor: Mary Emanuelson, Assistant Director, CDC
Junior Jumpstart
THE GOOD, BAD, AND THE UGLY
Spring is rolling steadily into our lives again along with media that highlights careers ... the good, bad, and the ugly.
For example, Columbia Pictures feature movie 21 explores the career choices of the character Ben Campbell who enters a life of counting at blackjack tables to support himself through graduate school with predictable yet engaging outcomes.
The movie, Nannie Diaries, inspired by the book, highlights one woman's journey into graduate school via dramatic and thought provoking anthropological experiences as an au pair in New York City.
David Swimmer's, Run Fat Boy Run, delves into the life of a man paralyzed by making a career and family commitments; eventually being tested in order to win the heart of a lost love.
Finally, NBC's weekly series, Scrubs, details the tribulations and exploits of medical residents. The show demonstrates much savvy in coupling laughter with real dilemmas facing residents inside and outside the workplace.
In closing, if you need a laugh and an opportunity to reflect without pressure- the above mentioned should remedy well!
Contributor: Christina Cowens Gholson, Career Counselor, CDC
Sophomore Syllabus
NO SUMMER JOB/INTERNSHIP YET? THERE'S STILL TIME
With the end of the school year less than a month away, there can be growing anxiety if you haven't secured a job/internship for the summer. Many students think that they have missed the window of opportunity for a summer position, but instead of spending your energy focusing on what you haven't done, concentrate on what you can do, which is a lot.
Many organizations are just starting to think about their needs for summer, so it still can be the perfect time to be looking. The key is for you to be able to articulate what skills you could bring to the position and what you are hoping to get out of your summer experience. A lot of times an organization may be able to have some flexibility in the details of the position to help better meet your interests.
To get started on your search it is critical that you utilize all the resources available to you. That includes networking with a wide variety of people/groups:
The CDC has access to the alumni directory which can be a great tool in finding people that are currently working in the field you are pursuing. In addition, you can narrow your alumni search to one city or numerous cities, depending on your interests. The other groups listed above can also be a great way to not only find a summer job/internship, but to also gather additional information that can be helpful in determining what area/field might be most interesting to you. You never know where the right opportunity will come from, so it is critical that you network extensively to maximize your chances of finding the right fit. Many positions are never advertised, so unless you have people looking out for you, you might miss some really interesting opportunities.
The CDC can help you develop networking options and discuss additional alternatives as well. Call the CDC today at (651) 696-6384 to make an appointment. We also have drop in hours from 2–4 P.M. Monday through Friday.
Contributor: John Mountain, Associate Director, CDC
First Year Focus
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL
There is an old adage that states "One size does not fit all". This is proverb is not only applicable to shoe selection, but the human condition of a first year student attempting to select a major.
Your major selection may be impacted by your socioeconomic background, family expectations, personal expectations, and cultural experiences. For example, if you are a first generation college student and you are feeling the pressure of not only completing college for yourself, but for your family as well, you may chose a field that renders the most economic stability in the long-term. This is not a bad idea, but I would caution against selecting a major that has been predetermined by your family or an assumption, and lead more with your passion of for the field. Ultimately, your passion will lead you toward the most lucrative opportunities, not the major alone.
The case above may not be as extreme for you, but as equally complex for the if you have always loved one field of study, like the Chemistry, and desire to couple it with Art.
In summation, one experience does not fit all and it is up to you to explore ways to bridge your passions, honor your history, and move forward with perseverance. One step in the process, is reflecting on your experiences, values, and goals. The Career Development Center can assist you in mapping your vision and commitments.
Contributor: Christina Cowens Gholson, Career Counselor, CDC
The Bookshelf
 HOW'D YOU SCORE THAT GIG? - Author Alexandra Levit. Ballantine Books, New York, NY, 2008.
In How'd You Score That Gig? career expert, Alexandra Levit, profiles more than sixty of the coolest careers on the planet - all rated in a national survey by twenty- and thirtysomethings for twenty- and thirtysomethings. To find the jobs that are calling your name, take Levit's short quiz and discover your "passion profile." You may be:
-
an Adventurer: You are spontaneous, free-spirited, and always ready for change
-
a Creator: You are always looking for a way to express yourself
-
a Data Head: You have an uncanny knack for gathering and organizing information
-
an Entrepreneur: You have business savvy and don't want to be chained to a desk
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an Investigator: You excel in science, logic, and learning
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a Networker: You're a people person - outgoing and a team player
-
a Nurturer: Selfless and compassionate, you make a difference one person at a time
Engaging and practical, the book includes insider accounts of young careerists currently in these jobs and provides specific action steps for breaking in.
This book can be found in the Career and Life Planning section in the CDC Resource Library.
Featured Article
SUMMER EMPLOYMENT
I was intrigued by the student who told me she never did quite get around to looking for a summer job. “I was just too busy this semester to look. And now it is too late.” My eyes drift to the calendar on my wall. Yes. Sure enough, it still says April. Granted this year in particular it can be argued that summer did not appear to be coming. Ever.
The CDC wants you to know that it is NOT too late to look for summer employment. Read on for general clearinghouse sites that may give you, at this eleventh hour, the summer dream opportunity of a lifetime. Okay. We shouldn't oversell this too much. But you can still generate income, enhance transferable skills and have a delightful summer!
Have fun, relax, and don't forget sunscreen!
http://www.studentjobs.gov/
http://www.acacamps.org/jobs/
http://www.summerjobs.com
/do/where
http://www.coolworks.com/
http://cty.jhu.edu/summer/
employment
http://www.quintcareers.com/
finding_summer_jobs.html
P.S. – Make a note to begin reviewing these sites December 2008, so you have a head start for next year!
Check also temporary help services.
Contributor: Mary Emanuelson, Assistant Director, CDC
Featured Fellowship
MARSHALL SCHOLARSHIPS
Marshall Scholarships finance young Americans of high ability to study for a degree, at either the undergraduate or graduate level, in the United Kingdom. They are funded by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and administered by the Marshall Aid Commemoration Commission (MACC) in the UK, for which the ACU provides the Secretariat.
Students who wish to apply for a Marshall must complete a declaration of interest, available in the Macalester Academic Programs Office, by September 8, 2008. A draft of the application essay is due September 22, 2008.
For full information on applying for a scholarship and the MACC please visit www.marshallscholarship.org .
For further information on fellowships, please visit the CDC website: http://www.macalester.edu/cdc/
graduateschool/financing
/fellowships.html
Grad School Notes
ENHANCE YOUR GRAD SCHOOL APPLICATION DURING THE SUMMER VACATION
Use the summer break to improve your chances of getting admitted to graduate school! Whether you are a junior planning to attend grad school immediately after graduation or a senior who plans to take a gap year before going back to school, here are some tips to make the most out of your summer:
Improve your GRE score by signing up for a summer test prep course. If you have already taken the GRE, but are not satisfied with your score, plan to study over the summer and sign up to re-take the exam.
Ask professors for letters of recommendation while you are still fresh in their minds, especially seniors taking a year off before grad school. Professors may prefer to write recommendation letters during the summer, rather than in during the fall when they may have to write many letters.
Gain relevant work experience . Many graduate programs may require solid work experience before applying to graduate school. Try not to only limit your experiences to jobs that pay well, because many unpaid, voluntary, or part-time positions related to your career goals will help build your grad school application.
Research graduate programs and visit schools. Traveling to visit schools over the summer will allow more time in the fall semester to focus on getting your application materials ready. Researching different grad programs during the summer can help you decide which programs will be a good fit for you.
Call, email, or visit the Career Development Center to review your rough draft of your personal statement or ask questions about graduate school application process.
Take time to rest, relax, and have fun ! Having free time over the summer may help you reflect on your future goals and plans for graduate school.
Contributor: Maureen Mahoney, Graduate Intern, CDC
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Macalester at Work
Brian Bull
Macalester Class of 1991
Mac alum, Brian Bull, has enjoyed an exciting and successful career in public broadcasting and describes what led him to that choice. He discusses his current documentary project involving the struggles and triumphs of Hmong-Americans, and shares with us the one thing he learned at Mac that helped him most in his career.
CDC: Describe your undergraduate experience at Macalester. Any particularly memorable moments?
BB: I remember voicing a “time capsule” video of Macalester, in 1988. Mac Audio-Visual services produced the VHS-format mini-documentary, showing what the campus looked like at that particular time. It was then sealed up in a cornerstone of Old Main, to be opened in 25 years, maybe? If the tape survives that long, it'll be interesting to relive that moment. Well, I hope it's interesting.
On a much more personal note, I was down and out during the latter half of my junior year. A memorial pow-wow for my mother (she died before I turned 9) was being held back in my home state of Idaho, and I was strapped for money. A group of close friends (Christy Walker, Andrea Heiberg, Jill Edwards, etc.) chipped in to help me fly out and attend the event. That was really a great experience.
I could go on about many outstanding classmates, supportive professors, great friends, and lively experiences, but I'd just say rarely a day goes by when I don't wish I could hit a magical “reset” button and relive many of those days.
CDC: You worked for the Macalester Admissions office for a few years after graduation. What was the most interesting part of that job, and tell us about being "the man without an office."
BB: I loved connecting to the prospective students, especially on my travels. For a person right out of college, it was a great job. You communicate what you love about Mac with eager and talented high school students, in places that included San Francisco, Memphis, Chicago, Santa Fe, Los Angeles, Boston, and New Orleans. Even the more remote places like Billings, Montana (where I returned Gretchen Rohr's hairdryer after she forgot it during a sampler visit) and Bismarck, North Dakota really played into my wanderlust. I always packed a camera and journal, as well as several heavy stacks of Admissions brochures whenever I hit the trail.
As for being “the man without an office” it took about a year before I had an actual workspace with walls and a door that locked. I had all my papers and office supplies in a rolling file cabinet that I pushed into any spare or vacant office in the Admissions department. I was an office nomad. So I don't want to hear people complain about being in cubicles! That would've been like a palace to me, back then.
CDC: What decisions did you have to make regarding pursuing a career in public broadcasting, and where did you go for help with those decisions? Were there any people, experiences, and/or resources that were instructive?
BB: I had graduated with a lot of bravado, but not much direction. Bad combination. Fortunately, my Dad chanced upon a book called What Color is Your Parachute? It really made me sit and do a thorough self-inventory about my interests, my talents, my ideal work environment and routine. I took stock of my Psychology major and Theater and Creative Writing minors, seeing if there were ways I could still incorporate them into my ideal career. I recalled my love for storytelling, keeping up with current events, and public speaking. In short, the math all added up to broadcast journalism. And I recalled growing up listening to public radio, which included programs like A Prairie Home Companion, All Things Considered, and Fresh Air. I wanted to get into that fold, so I looked up radio internships, volunteer opportunities, and training. I committed myself to any opening, as long as I progressed in experience. I did a Nez Perce Tribal Radio Project in 1996, then reached for the stars, as they say. Lacking a journalism degree, it was quite a reach.
It's important to mention that for all that post-graduate bravado, I would've hit the floor were it not for help along the way. My wonderful and beautiful wife, Margaret Bull (Query, Class of 1996) supported me in countless ways. My NPR experiences took me to Washington DC, where friends like Sarah Sawtelle, Quinn Hanchette, and Karen Beriss were there to keep me company and provide further support. If I ever boast of being a self-made man, slap me hard and turn me around to see where I've been.
CDC: You interned for Minnesota Public Radio, Twin Cities Public Television and National Public Radio after leaving the Admissions Office. How do you think your liberal arts education, or perhaps your major in Psychology, may have helped you in these positions?
BB: My liberal arts education at Mac alerted me to the endless diversity that is out there. You have to know that I grew up in a fairly isolated, rural environment in Idaho. It was a homogenous upbringing, and many of my peers were not keen on “differences.” The Macalester experience was culture shock in the best sense of the world. And really tapping into the many cultures, philosophies, and attitudes primed me for diving into public radio, which in my opinion is some of the smartest and dynamic journalism around. It's not about splashy graphics, barking delivery, melodramatic soundbytes, and other elements to “drive-by reporting,” it's journalism that pries into the background, implications, and multiple perspectives that I think makes for great storytelling.
As for my psychology degree, it has really worked well to help me empathize with my sources. Whether it's an embattled politician, a domestic violence survivor, proud scientist, or struggling farmer, I often relate to what they're going through and feel a connection to them that guides my questions and interpretation of their experience. Al Tompkins, an amazing faculty member at the Poynter Institute, told me once that I have the gift of “finding the black pearl,” which means being able to reach the deepest core of another person quickly and intimately. I've always prized that compliment.
CDC: You were hired as a news director for South Dakota Public Radio where you led the station to national recognition. Describe your work there and the most challenging aspect of that job.
BB: The most challenging aspect was simply knowing what to do. It was like learning skydiving by being thrown a parachute and pushed out of the airplane. My predecessor had left a week earlier, meaning I had no one to ease me into the daily responsibilities. I had filed a few stories here and there, including a feature on Hmong funerals for NPR, but I was expected to produce and coordinate news on a statewide level. Fortunately, I had a very supportive and encouraging boss, Terry Harris, and some very talented and good people including Charles Michael Ray, Josh Welsh, and Matt Weesner. I encouraged my team to file with as much natural sound as they could gather, write fairly and accurately, and push each other's creative limits. I found myself challenged to produce a documentary about South Dakota 's role during World War II, which eventually won an Edward R. Murrow Award from the Radio-Television News Directors Association. I got involved in producing (and often hosting) the daily talk show. I learned to really engage myself in the passion and love my reporters had for “the craft,” sharing ideas and tips that made for great reporting. More state and national awards came. The RTNDA's trade magazine, The Communicator, deemed our network HQ one of only three “powerhouse small market stations” in the nation. And in my last year there, practically everyone on the news staff had won a Murrow of their own.
In between there were long nights, technical mishaps, and the occasional personnel issue, but looking back at that time it was highly educational and very successful. Our humble network was on the map!
CDC: You currently work for Wisconsin Public Radio as an assistant news director. What was the toughest interview question you were asked? Do you have any advice regarding the interview process?
BB: I recall one interviewer who really pressed me on how far I'd maintain neutrality with a source. The example she gave was that of a homeless mother, who I had perhaps interviewed for a story about poverty. She said, “Okay, let's say she doesn't have a car and it's starting to get cold.” I said maybe I could direct her to a shelter or a bus stop. “Alright, but she doesn't have any money and her child is sick. It's starting to snow. ” I say I would wish her well, and perhaps contact someone from the homeless shelter to pick her up. “The shelter is closed, it's really cold and blowing out, and the woman and child just can't go anywhere now! ” Man, she was persistent. I eventually said if it was an issue of survival without any other options, I would be VERY happy to give the homeless mother and sick child a ride in my car. That pleased her. I think she wanted to know I was professional and detached in my reporting, but not so that I would neglect the welfare of another person. We both felt relieved I think after that session.
The best advice I can give someone in the interview process is to put yourself into the interviewer's shoes. Ask yourself, what abilities, characteristics, and personality do they need for the specific job? What is going to make them most impressed with you? Then capitalize on what comes to mind. Relax, and come with ideas about how you would do the job in ways that maybe they hadn't thought of. Also, don't be afraid to point out things you think could improve their service, just do it tactfully. Many companies welcome constructive input and innovation. And they appreciate someone who is prepared, confident, and eager to make things better and positive.
CDC: Describe the additional work you do as a WPR general assignment reporter focusing on culture and race issues, education, and rural development. What drew you to the documentary project you are involved in about Hmong-Americans?
BB: We have reporters situated across Wisconsin, but there is always conflicts with time, schedules, and absences so I'm often ready to do stories to help fill out the afternoon or morning newscasts. I am readily drawn in to broad yet influential issues that affect entire communities, and have done stories about the immigration debate, racial disparity in academic services, economic sustainability for tribal reservations, and others.
One community that is new to Wisconsin is the Hmong. Many were involved in the “Secret War” orchestrated by the CIA against Viet Cong supply routes. After the Vietnam War, thousands fled southeast Asia to avoid persecution by the Communists. Wisconsin ranks behind Minnesota and California for the highest population in the U.S. For 30 years, the Hmong have worked to become productive and prominent citizens, but the familiar barriers of discrimination and misunderstanding have made this a challenge. I'm drawn to this transition, because it is not every day you get to see it so pronounced in your own backyard. The Hmong struggle to become part of the American fabric, but also to retain the customs, rituals, and traditions that make them who they are. It touches me on a deep level because even though Native Americans are not so much immigrants, they too wrestle with cultural preservation and acceptance into mainstream society. We're trying to take a “snapshot” of this event by examining the successes and triumphs of Hmong-Americans, as well as their struggles and conflicts. We have had some really good experiences already with those willing to share their lives with our documentary producers.
CDC: What has been your favorite story in your public broadcasting career to date?
BB: I hate that question. My stories are almost like children. They're borne of a painstakingly creative process, drawing on your emotional and physical energies. They also have their own personalities and traits. It's hard, therefore, for me to pick just one over the rest. But I guess if I can pick one that I just really, really like, it would have to be a mini-documentary called Intimate Liaisons: Sex and the Lewis and Clark Expedition that I produced during my last few months at South Dakota Public Radio. Despite the title, it is not a raunchy, sassy romp through history. It's an examination of the prevalence of sex and its various roles among the Native American tribes that Lewis and Clark encountered. For some, physical intimacy was a form of trade; and sometimes it was to establish a unique connection to a tribe; for others, it was seen as a transference of “big medicine” from one person to the next; and with my tribe (Nez Perce), it was to create a living testament to a contract or treaty. It really opened up a side to the whole Corps of Discovery that was either neglected or hurriedly discussed among historians and educators. But it was a very human enterprise, a normal experience for these adventurers. The impetus was also to contradict all the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial PR bamboozle I had to contend with as a news director in South Dakota. Beyond all the toy keelboats and Sacajawea dolls, I knew there had to be something grittier and more dynamic than the tourism department would have people realize. The Native American Journalists Association awarded it Best Radio Documentary the same year.
A sound-rich feature about Hmong funerals, and a profile of American Indian Movement activist, Dennis Banks at his maple syrup farm are two close runner-ups.
CDC: How do you find balance between your passions, career, family obligations, etc?
BB: It's tough. I really need more sleep. I dearly love my two boys, Liam and Alex, and keep photos of them up in my office to remind me where my true commitment lies. While I've netted dozens of journalism awards and have been featured at many conventions and seminars, it can't compare to tucking my kids in at night and making up silly little bedtime stories about the Bull Boys and their adventures with pirates, dinosaurs, Bigfoot, and an affectionate little brute called the Pucker Beast. My kids will only be young once, and before I know it they'll be out of the house making their own lives. I don't want to miss out on those early childhood years full of fun and learning. So between staying at work late and catching up with my family's day, I'll vouch for the latter. It's worth making time for, and since I love both my home life and career, energy flows pretty readily (though a good night's sleep is still a good night's sleep).
CDC: What was one thing you learned at Mac that has helped you most in your career? If you were to offer any advice to current students, what would it be?
BB: I've learned to stop thinking in absolutes, in terms of black and white. There's lots of perspectives out there, held by people often with good intentions. We need to keep asking questions, without fear of offending or sounding uninformed. That diploma on my wall says I earned an education, but learning doesn't end there. We need to keep challenging ourselves to really think of what we're saying, and ask why we make the choices we do. And to listen. We don't listen much to each other anymore it seems. I watch these cable TV news networks and it's always some guy bellowing and shouting, drowning out any dissent, and posturing for those who simply want their own views reinforced. Real communication isn't encouraged anymore. It seems that pundits have taken over and that's really been divisive.
I would encourage students to proactively seek out multiple points of view. It is much easier and comfortable to confine ourselves to our engrained perspective, but we stand to gain a better grasp of where our neighbors come from if we simply open up and listen. And the end result doesn't necessarily have to be agreement or conversion, but if there is a healthy vigorous discussion that leaves everyone feeling a bit more connected as well as enlightened, then I think we're on to something good.
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