In early 2024, I met with Carol Sherwin through the Gordon Career Center’s WesLink program. Ms. Sherwin, a Wesleyan alum from the Class of 1991, is currently self-employed as a Business Strategy & HR Consultant.
After exchanging introductions, we began our conversation by discussing Wesleyan and our unique experiences there. It’s always enjoyable to talk about Wesleyan with alumni because it highlights how much can change over the years. She pleasantly divulged that she loved her time at Wesleyan and appreciated the resources available to her during her enrollment.
Ms. Sherwin introduced me to the concept of “Telling The Story Of Who You Are.” She emphasized that knowing how to tell your story is the most valuable asset when searching for a first position post-graduation and contemplating a career field. She explained that telling your story means drawing traits from every experience and weaving them together to shape a cohesive narrative. This concept guided my approach as I worked on my portfolio throughout the semester.
When I shared my concerns about the future after graduation, she reassured me that a career path is not a straight line. She recounted her own journey post-graduation, highlighting how she transferred skills from previous jobs into new opportunities. She stressed that many jobs are obtained through networking. I then discussed my goal of securing a financial internship for the summer and my challenge of missing deadlines for major opportunities.
Ms. Sherwin was incredibly helpful, helping me devise a plan of action not only for finding an internship but also for crafting my story. She suggested several steps: first, setting up a meeting with the Gordon Career Center and connecting with alumni based in Houston; second, networking with professionals in Houston once I returned for summer break; and third, reflecting on my experiences by creating a single page for each work and academic experience, analyzing the challenges faced and lessons learned. Her advice was both practical and reassuring, helping me feel better prepared as I navigated the internship search process.
Since I only began networking last semester in the fall of 2023, I still feel a bit nervous when talking to alumni or professionals for informational interviews. However, meeting with Ms. Sherwin was a rewarding and encouraging experience. She was open and understanding, easing many of my concerns about finding an internship and a job by helping me focus on the most important aspect: understanding myself and knowing how to tell my story. Throughout the semester, her words served as a constant guiding voice as I reflected on my past experiences.
I am really glad to have had the opportunity to meet Ms. Sherwin, and I hope to keep in touch with her in the future.
