Advice he’d share with those looking for a change or considering a new career plan is to take control of your own development. Even if you aren’t sure where you want to go next, think about what you’d like to get better at, and come up with a plan to do it. “Get help from your leaders, but understand you are ultimately accountable for your own success,” says Jeff.

If you’re interested in learning more about University Advancement or Jeff’s experiences, contact him at  chuchj@mcmaster.ca.

For almost 20 years he investigated models of airway diseases and developed lab management skills. Russ found this role very rewarding, as it provided the opportunity to see studies through from inception to publication. While working full time, he completed his Master’s Degree in Health Research Methodology within the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics. With the hands-on experience he gained in research and managing a lab, and the desire to teach and mentor students, he was ready to take on a new role – that’s when the position he now holds became available. He enjoys working with students every day, and received the President’s Award for Outstanding Service in 2012 in recognition of his contribution to the Integrated Science program.

His advice for students and those in search of their ideal career, is to develop transferrable skills in every role or position you hold. They will no doubt help with your success and allow you to become a valuable contributing member of any team, “Being open to opportunities is also very important,” says Russ. “You never know where an opportunity will lead, or what skills you’ll develop along the way.”

If you are interested in the field of research, lab coordination or teaching, you can contact Russ to learn more about his experience and progression in this area.

Contact Russ at ellisr@mcmaster.ca.

After graduating from McMaster in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, like many new grads, she was unsure and somewhat overwhelmed by the decision of what to do next. After working for a short time in reception at a local company, she realized it wasn’t a long-term fit and decided to spend some time reflecting on her interests, strengths and what kind of environment she wanted to work in.

After a long search, she was hired as the Placement Assistant in the Science Cooperative Education (SCE) office and supported the co-op programs in the Faculty of Science at McMaster. In this role, she found herself engaged in conversations with students about their career paths and what opportunities they might pursue after graduation. This work became her passion, so she enrolled in a post-graduate program focussed on Career Development at Mohawk College. This started Vanessa down a new path.

She progressed through a few roles at Mac related to Career Development, developing new skills and abilities along the way. Her most recent role as Admissions and Recruitment Officer has given her the opportunity to work closely with others in a collaborative environment. This was very rewarding and eye-opening for Vanessa. “Now I will always seek to collaborate, engage other perspectives and talents because I know the outcome will exceed what I can produce on my own,” says Vanessa, whose teamwork and contribution was recognized by the McMaster Community through the 2013 President’s Award for Outstanding Services.

As a student and now a staff member at McMaster, Vanessa has learned that it’s ok to ask for help, building relationships is critical in almost any role, and a positive attitude can help achieve even the most daunting tasks.

She loves to help others progress through their own career development and is happy to connect with anyone who has questions about her field or their own path.

Reach out to Vanessa Hayward at haywarv@mcmaster.ca