Each spring, NSHSS publishes the results of our annual millennial career survey. The wealth of information that is collected from NSHSS members helps the Society structure new programs and partnerships. One such program grew out of responses to the 2011 and 2012 career surveys from NSHSS members who expressed interest in working for or learning more about the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
The CIA sought to work with NSHSS Asian American members who wished to be assigned a career advisor from the Agency to provide guidance on preparing for internships and jobs. Most students receive advice from parents, family, peers and academic counselors, but seldom have the opportunity to converse with senior professionals in the workforce. Four NSHSS members were invited to become part of this unique coaching program led by Michael Mau, Asian American Program Manager, Community Outreach and Liaison Staff for the Center for Mission Diversity and Inclusion at the Central Intelligence Agency. In Michael’s role as a career advisor, he coached participating NSHSS members in their quest to explore career opportunities that matched their passions and interests.
NSHSS member Lea Park-Kim fully appreciated her decision to participate in the program during her senior year at the University of San Diego. Lea said, “I was so excited to be invited! Mr. Mau was a dedicated, sincere, and helpful advisor who not only helped me make career plans through our regular phone conversations but also introduced me to many organizations and people that have become critical resources for me. My favorite memory of the program was attending the National Association of Asian American Professionals Leadership Symposium because it was an opportunity for me to network and learn. Mr. Mau shared some of his experience with the CIA with me, and I loved learning more about the Agency that I would not have known about otherwise. By talking about my passion and plans with Mr. Mau, I explored different paths that I can take after graduating from college. He went above and beyond to share many resources and networking opportunities, and I have been utilizing all the information during my job search process.” Lea will study in Morocco this spring and will graduate from the University of San Diego in May 2013.
Oakton High School senior Marilyn Yang said, “I had always been curious about the CIA and it was a great experience to be able to get to know more from an actual CIA employee. Above all, Mr. Mau was a great resource for me to just discuss my various future plans. He gave me valuable suggestions for places to look for scholarships and courses to look into in college, which are both incredibly important as I approach the end of my senior year of high school. Networking is vital, and this NSHSS program was a great way for me to make an additional professional contact!” In fall 2013, Marilyn will attend the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business.
Thao Vuong said, “The coaching program with Mr. Mau is one of the best opportunities I have been exposed to. Without NSHSS's partnership, I do not think that I would have ever gained so much exposure and insight into the CIA. Mr. Mau exposed me to many opportunities such as the NAAAP Leadership Symposium and, most importantly, his guidance has taught me how to use my experiences to my advantages. The program has really helped me develop both professionally and personally.” Thao will resume her internship in San Diego and graduate from UCLA during the winder quarter and return to walk in June 2013.
Kaitlyn Egan said, “The coaching program was definitely worthwhile. As a junior, I have begun to explore my options for the future and my CIA advisor helped me to really think about the best career path for me. It was also motivating to have someone check up on me to make sure that I am utilizing my time in school to the fullest. This was definitely a great opportunity!” Kaitlyn will study in Italy Spring 2013 and plans to graduate from the University of Notre Dame in May 2014.
NSHSS is grateful to Michael Mau and the CIA for leading a meaningful professional coaching program in 2012. We are very excited to continue working with the CIA as a partner in 2013 to provide opportunities for NSHSS members to explore career opportunities with the Agency. The first CIA student opportunities workshop of 2013 will be held at the Tennessee Member Event in Memphis on Saturday, April 20. Visit the Member Events page of the NSHSS website for details on other events during 2013.