Pablo Hernández, an East Carolina University (ECU) alumnus, recently returned to campus to share invaluable academic and career advice with students. His journey, from overcoming language barriers to achieving professional success, resonated deeply, particularly with first-generation and English as a Second Language (ESL) students seeking guidance through Career Counselling Ecu. Hernández, now the director of project management services at 35 North in Durham, emphasized the importance of perseverance, resourcefulness, and strategic career planning, all crucial components of effective career counselling ECU offers.
Pablo Hernández, the director of project management services at 35 North in Durham and an East Carolina University alumnus, talks with students in the Main Campus Student Center.
Hernández’s visit, hosted by the College of Engineering and Technology’s Student Success Center during National Hispanic Heritage Month, provided a platform for students to gain insights from someone who walked a similar path. He openly discussed his experiences as a first-generation college student and navigating higher education without English as his first language, highlighting the relevance of career counselling ECU in overcoming these unique challenges. His core message: determination and hard work, hallmarks of many ECU students, are essential, and career counselling ECU can provide the strategic direction needed to channel these qualities effectively.
Drawing from his own experience, Hernández recounted accepting an unpaid internship in the United States after completing college in Venezuela. This pivotal decision, a testament to his long-term vision, ultimately paved the way for his successful career trajectory. He earned his Master of Business Administration from ECU in 2005, building upon his background in computer science and engineering. His diverse leadership roles at companies like DuPont and Syngenta underscore the versatility of an engineering and technology background, a key point often explored in career counselling ECU sessions. “You can change your career,” Hernández advised, reassuring students that their initial academic paths are not necessarily their final destinations, a comforting perspective for students engaged in career counselling ECU to consider various options.
Addressing Student Challenges Through Career Counselling ECU
Hernández directly addressed the unique challenges faced by first-generation and ESL students, a central focus of career counselling ECU services. He spoke candidly about imposter syndrome, a feeling of inadequacy despite evidence of success. “I still feel it,” he admitted, normalizing this common experience and reinforcing the importance of self-belief and the supportive environment career counselling ECU aims to foster. “You’re here. You are smart. You’ve earned it. You’ve worked your butts off.” This validation is a crucial aspect of effective career counselling ECU, building student confidence and resilience.
He urged students to proactively utilize the financial aid resources available at ECU and to seek guidance when needed. Recognizing that first-generation students may lack familial experience with higher education, Hernández emphasized the vital role of advisors and career counselling ECU. “My parents didn’t understand anything about college,” he shared, underscoring the necessity of professional support systems like career counselling ECU to bridge this gap. “Go to your advisors. Ask for help,” he encouraged, directly pointing students towards available resources.
Keys to Success and the Role of Career Counselling ECU
Hernández emphasized student engagement beyond academics, a holistic approach often promoted in career counselling ECU. He expressed regret for not being more involved during his own college years and encouraged students to “Get involved. Enjoy ECU. Don’t be in a rush. It’s not a race. Enjoy the university.” He suggested joining student organizations and forming study groups, highlighting the social and collaborative learning opportunities available at ECU, which are often discussed in career counselling ECU to promote well-rounded development.
Furthermore, Hernández stressed the importance of well-being, a critical component of sustainable academic and career success and a recurring theme in career counselling ECU. “Don’t forget about the things that are important — your mental wellness and your physical wellness,” he advised, reminding students that personal well-being is foundational to achieving their goals and a key area of support offered by career counselling ECU.
Career Planning and Opportunities Highlighted by Career Counselling ECU
Hernández specifically highlighted the strong career prospects for graduates of the College of Engineering and Technology, aligning with the career planning aspects of career counselling ECU. He stated that the programs in computer science, construction management, engineering, and technology systems at ECU produce graduates highly sought after by companies like 35 North, his construction project management firm specializing in life sciences. “I could use almost anybody from this college,” he affirmed, underscoring the direct career pathways available to ECU graduates and often detailed in career counselling ECU sessions.
He pointed to high-growth industries like life sciences, agriculture, clean technology, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing as prime sectors for ECU graduates, noting the potential for six-figure salaries. The thriving Research Triangle Park region, with its $11.6 billion construction market in 2022, presents significant opportunities. This information is invaluable for students engaged in career counselling ECU, helping them understand the promising job landscape.
Hernández strongly encouraged students to attend career fairs, a crucial networking opportunity often facilitated and prepared for through career counselling ECU. He advised them to research companies beforehand and to demonstrate genuine interest. “Know what they do and know what you want to do. Shake hands. Show them you’re interested, why you’re interested and what you’re looking for,” he advised, offering practical tips for career fair success, skills often honed through career counselling ECU workshops and sessions. He emphasized that personality, energy, and enthusiasm are as important as technical skills, qualities that career counselling ECU helps students showcase effectively.
Hernández concluded by reminding students of their inherent strengths: resilience, determination, and resourcefulness. He acknowledged that setbacks are inevitable but emphasized the importance of perseverance. “When that happens, check it off and get to work again.” His final message was one of empowerment, urging students to recognize their potential. “It’s easy for you to think that everybody can do it, but believe me, it’s not that easy,” he said. “Not everyone can do it.” This empowering message, coupled with practical advice, exemplifies the supportive and guidance-oriented approach of career counselling ECU.
For students seeking further career guidance and resources, the ECU Career Services website is an invaluable tool, offering a range of services that complement the advice shared by Pablo Hernández and reinforce the commitment of career counselling ECU to student success.
