This reflection paper explores the multiple ways family members — grandparents, parents, and siblings — have shaped the author's career direction through both direct encouragement and subtle pressure. The paper examines key career milestones, including a first professional job and a collaborative video project on Henry David Thoreau. It also engages with the concept of happenstance in career development, considering how unplanned events can open or close professional doors. Finally, the paper reflects on a father's unfulfilled dream of becoming a writer and how that legacy continues to influence the author's own undecided career path.
My grandparents, parents, and siblings have all influenced my career direction in both direct and indirect — and sometimes not so subtle — ways. For instance, my paternal grandfather always insisted that I should attend college and "make something of myself" because he never had the opportunity to do so himself. Likewise, my maternal grandmother consistently encouraged me to pursue a career in art because I liked to draw and once sketched a picture when I was 10 years old that looked vaguely like her (she still has it framed and hung on her bedroom wall).
My father is adamant that I should become some type of professional: "It doesn't matter what kind, just learn how to do something people will pay you a lot of money to do." In addition, my older brother — a certified public accountant with an insurance company — has encouraged me to pursue accounting because "that's where the money is." My younger brother, on the other hand, insists that I should work in a zoological park because "that's where I belong."
One of the most significant key events in my career journey to date was landing my first real job. Over the years, I had held a series of minimum-wage, part-time positions in various food service establishments to help offset living and education expenses. However, I secured my first truly professional role when I was hired full time based on my educational credentials.
Another important milestone was leading a five-member group to develop a comprehensive video production about Henry David Thoreau's life and philosophy, including interviews with several local historians and faculty members. This video was copied and distributed to other local colleges and high schools where Thoreau was included in the curriculum.
Some of the most successful people in the business and political world would likely agree that happenstance played a major part in helping them reach where they are today. Although it would be disingenuous to suggest that some people are simply "born lucky," it is also clear that certain individuals manage — by design or otherwise — to be present where important decisions are made and where they can benefit both personally and professionally.
It is also important to keep in mind that happenstance can occur at any time. People need to be prepared to take advantage of the opportunities it introduces, or to respond to urgent needs when the contingency is negative. In sum, it is impossible to be prepared for the unexpected, but it is possible to be prepared to take advantage of opportunity when it knocks.
"Goal-setting over passive waiting in career counseling"
"Father's writing dream and its lasting influence"
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