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Leeza Martinez
Major: Psychology
Year of Graduation: 2003
Current Position: Workforce Development Specialist, Cobbworks, Inc.
What was your first position after graduation?
Leeza is originally from Trinidad and Tobago and relocated to the Atlanta area after graduation. Leeza was hired as a Management Trainee for Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Westin Hotels are part of this company) in Atlanta, Georgia and was able to use this as her Optional Practical Training for international students. After living in Minnesota for college, she decided she wanted to live in a warmer climate and loved the opportunity to enjoy four seasons without the cold, snowy winters of Minnesota. She had visited Georgia on several occasions while in college and enjoyed southern hospitality. After six months, she was promoted to Sales Manager. After approximately one and one half years, she obtained a position in the career development area working for the Georgia Department of Labor.
What tips/strategies would you suggest to international students of they're interested in doing their OPT in the US after graduation?
International students should use the OPT opportunity on something that is of high interest to them and ensure that the job is related to what they studied while at Saint Ben's/St. John's. This would allow them to apply the knowledge gained from various courses pursued in their respective disciplines.
Lisa would also encourage international students to do the following:
- Start your job search early (it takes time to research, make connections, etc.)
- Apply for your OPT! Check with Addy Spitzer for details.
- Reflect on your skill sets - what will you bring to an organization?
- Think about what industry areas you're interested in going into and how you might get there. Some industry areas are more open to hiring international students (e.g. hospitality, those with specific technical skills in high demand) as well as cities on the coasts may provide more options (e.g. Miami, Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, etc.). Leeza knew she eventually wanted to get into the career development field but realized that the hospitality industry would be the way to "get her foot in the door."
- Visit the city you're interested in and make contacts with possible employers. Leeza visited the Atlanta area during the spring break of her senior year and participated in a job fair during this time. She was able to secure an interview and eventually got hired by this organization. The employer mentioned to Leeza that they were impressed that she had flown to Atlanta for the job fair! Get "face-time!"
What advice would you give to any students that are seeking employment out of state?
I would suggest they personally assess and prioritize the characteristics important to them and research the states/locales. The research should cover things such as cost of living-rent, utilities, food costs, and other basic expenses required for living to suit your lifestyle. Research career options and network, network, network! Try to arrange a visit to the city and make contact with possible employers.
What do you do in your current position?
I work directly with economically disadvantaged adults and dislocated workers by assisting them to either become self-sufficient through career coaching. I also have the opportunity to prepare career action plans with my clients; that may sometimes involve returning to schools - either university or technical college level, or continuing education for an industry certification that will allow them to become more marketable in today's job market. I also work with partnership agencies that assist in advertising barriers to an individual becoming re-employed. Barriers may include: child care, transportation, homelessness, drug addiction, criminal records, etc. I conduct career development workshops on a monthly basis.
How did your CSB/SJU education impact you?
Various enriching experiences at CSB/SJU helped me to develop my vocational calling - career development and facilitation. My student employment experience was with Events & Conferences and this provided excellent preparation for my OPT at the Westin. I also did a year-long internship with Stearns County Workforce Center during my senior year and this prepared me for my work that I am currently doing at Cobbworks. I was also involved in VISTO and Fast Forward to name a few. In addition, being immersed in the Benedictine culture/values helped shaped who I am today. Leadership and service within my local community are important and I found my passion and place by serving those who are in dire need of assistance.