Career Tips: From an Early Career Perspective Jackie Breska

2 A little bit about myself: Born and raised in San Luis Obispo, California Graduated from California Polytechnic University in December, 2004 –B.S. in Microbiology February, 2005: Started working at United Blood Services, San Luis Obispo –Donor Care Specialist I –Donor Care Trainer, 2005 –Assistant Donor Care Supervisor, 2006 –Donor Care Supervisor, 2007 –San Luis Obispo Donor Care Manager since 2009

Changing the Work Culture to Support Change What did you plan your career to be? Doctor Physician’s Assistant Participated in a laboratory/phlebotomy internship at UCLA Applied at United Blood Services in order to gain hours and experience required to apply to PA school.

5 What did you stumble upon, and how? Offer your assistance Volunteer for projects, regardless of the task Jump at opportunities that challenge you and put you outside of your comfort zone. Set goals for yourself and identify someone that can help you achieve those goals.

6 Advice you tell yourself Be the person that you want to be. Feel good about what you do everyday. Have integrity. Maintain work life balance.

7 What about the transition from staff to management? It is not easy! If you are looking to go into management, talk to your boss and start working on projects that will help you prepare as a manager. Understand that your previous relationships can change based on your new role. Learn from your staff; each time you coach your staff or encourage your staff is a new experience. Share the knowledge; remind that some days aren’t easy

8 Self-development advice? Get involved with an organization –Networking –Learn about new policies and procedures –Learn/share best practices Learn by doing Read leadership and change management books Attend conferences and webinars Jump at opportunities that come your way, but remember that you can’t do it all.

9 Role of mentoring and coaching? Find someone that you admire and respect, and ask them to be your mentor – Whether it be formal or informal. Identify advisors throughout your career –HR that can help you with challenging decisions –Seasoned professionals –Coaching of your own staff is something that occurs daily and continually helps with your career development.

“Sometimes, it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”” -Nelson Mandela