Careers in the field of Education come in many flavors and varieties. Most of us just think of teaching positions when considering a job in education. There are many positions available in education that do not require a teaching credential or any classroom involvement.
For example, if your resume shows your solid background in business, do not overlook the education section when searching career sites. Colleges and Universities are Institutions of Higher Education and have many positions available, your business knowledge could be put to good use. Financial Aid is a vital area for most Higher Education Institutions. Your background in business could be the ideal fit for positions within the Financial Aid Departments. Remember, most Colleges and Universities rely on Financial Aid in the form of loans, scholarships, and grants, as their major source of income. Another example is using your resume filled with customer service related jobs allows you to emphasize those skills to become an Academic Advisor at a College or University. There are many education related positions available in School District Offices, County Offices of Education, and at the State and Government levels for individuals with diverse backgrounds.
Your resume should reflect keywords used in the education position for which you wish to apply. Often these keywords include ‘Best Practices’, ‘Rigorous Standards and Practices’, ‘Fully Qualified Educator’, and other terms that apply broadly throughout the education industry. If your strengths include logical, progressive thinking abilities, be sure that your resume reflects those talents. Credential Analysts are needed in nearly every area of education, but that position requires strong abilities in analyzing and evaluating documents as well as people. There is little or no tolerance for mistakes or errors in this area, so place emphasis on projects you have done that reflect successful qualities with measurable results.
Education is a shared commitment between dedicated teachers, motivated students and enthusiastic parents with high expectations.
Bob Beauprez
If you are interested in pursuing careers in the field of education, or looking for ways to fund your own education, this is a great field to pursue. Many Colleges and Universities will provide free education to their employees, and free or reduced tuition costs to the employee’s immediate family members. This is an ideal way to obtain a teaching credential without paying high tuition fees, and it has the added benefit of interacting with school district personnel who can prove to be invaluable contacts to find a teaching position once you have obtained your credential!
Do not limit your future by limiting your job search to a narrow range defined only by what your current career may require. Jobs in education are available to individuals from every industry. Use your resume as a flexible tool to place particular emphasis on skills required by a job posting in the education field. You may find that taking a job in education allows you a platform to use as a springboard to a Bachelor or Master’s Degree in nearly any degree plan offered and may open doors to careers that may previously have appeared out of your reach. A job in education may prove to be the best career choice for your live and your entire future.