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Swell
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Volume M
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?a teacherWhat was the best course you took in school that helps you today in your career?EnglishWhat do you do for fun?I love to travel and I ride horsesDo you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Follow your dream career, no matter what!You can do anything you set your mind to do!What are your favorite books to read over the summer?Believe it or not ... Harry Potter! And all of the vampire books like "The Vampire Diaries" series by L.J. Smith. I read so much "heavy" stuff during the school year, that I have to have something to read that is pure "fantasy," I hope.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
a teacher
What was the best course you took in school that helps you today in your career?
English
What do you do for fun?
I love to travel and I ride horses
Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?
Follow your dream career, no matter what!
You can do anything you set your mind to do!
What are your favorite books to read over the summer?
Believe it or not ... Harry Potter! And all of the vampire books like "The Vampire Diaries" series by L.J. Smith. I read so much "heavy" stuff during the school year, that I have to have something to read that is pure "fantasy," I hope.
Suzie Margraves
teacher/ ESL Coordinator / Principal intern at a local high school
I loved summer camp! I think every young lady should have the opportunity to experience these tremendous feelings of self-worth, personal growth, and independence that girls' summer camps have to offer. If you haven't already had this experience, find a camp that's right for you, sign up now, and don't forget to bring lots of reading material!
Judy McFarland
Director, Fund Development for Literacy Advance
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was in high school, I wanted to be a lawyer. Took a degree in Broadcast Journalism.
What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?
My journalism and writing courses in both high school and college.
I started a book group about 15 years ago; my husband and I enjoy traveling and are trying to visit the 1,000 places in North America we should see.
Talk to family and good friends and mentors; they know you and probably can see things you are good and comfortable doing. Never stop learning. It doesnt stop with school.
Your favorite book to read over the summer?
I usually try to identify a couple of books my book club might like for the following year. I often reread old girlhood favorites like A Tree Grows In Brooklyn or Little Women.
Susan Farb Morris
Owner, Susan Farb Public Relations
I own a public relations firm specializing in media relations in the Houston market. One of my favorite clients over the years has been the San Jacinto Girl Scouts. I promoted their cookie sale, which, at the time was the #1 cookie sale in the United States. I also volunteered my public relations services for several years for the "Urban Campout" gala to raise funds for urban Girls Scout troops. My bio is on my website as well, www.farbulous.com.
What did you want to be when you grew up?In high school I loved speech and drama class and writing parodies and skits both for projects in school and my youth group. I suppose I wanted to be an actress.What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?EnglishWhat do you do for fun?Traveling; going for walks for conversation and exercise with friends; doing the New York Times crossword puzzle; looking at artDo you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Follow a career path that is meaningful to you. When you have found your passion, your work will not feel like work at all, but a joy!Your favorite book to read over the summer? "The Diary of Anne Frank"
In high school I loved speech and drama class and writing parodies and skits both for projects in school and my youth group. I suppose I wanted to be an actress.
Traveling; going for walks for conversation and exercise with friends; doing the New York Times crossword puzzle; looking at art
Follow a career path that is meaningful to you. When you have found your passion, your work will not feel like work at all, but a joy!
"The Diary of Anne Frank"
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?From the time I was in fourth grade and began creative writing at school, I wanted to be a writer. I loved writing poetry and found it to be a helpful way of working through and expressing my feelings. What was the best course you took in school that helps you today in your career?American Literature. Reading good books is not only an inspiration to write well but exposes you to the masters. What do you do for fun?I love to travel, cook, read, and spend time with my children. Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Think about what you LOVE to do—not just what you do well. Talk to people who have the job you want and find out as much about it as you can. What are your favorite books to read over the summer?I belong to a book club and plan to read Black, White and Jewish, an autobiography by Rebecca Walker, who is the biracial daughter of African American writer Alice Walker and a Jewish father.
From the time I was in fourth grade and began creative writing at school, I wanted to be a writer. I loved writing poetry and found it to be a helpful way of working through and expressing my feelings.
American Literature. Reading good books is not only an inspiration to write well but exposes you to the masters.
I love to travel, cook, read, and spend time with my children.
Think about what you LOVE to do—not just what you do well. Talk to people who have the job you want and find out as much about it as you can.
I belong to a book club and plan to read Black, White and Jewish, an autobiography by Rebecca Walker, who is the biracial daughter of African American writer Alice Walker and a Jewish father.
Margaret Miller
Writer
Mary Jo Martin
President and owner, Cynapsus LLC, a market research consulting firm & Partner in Marketing Syndicate, a marketing services firm
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?In HS, an XRAY Technologist (a good friend talked me out of that), first year college, a Microbiologist, second year college, a chemist. After graduation and 5 years of work, I decided I didnt like that, so I went back to school and got an MBA. Tried a year at HR, but decided I liked marketing better. Ive been doing some kind of marketing ever since (so I guess I finally got it!).What was the best course you took in school that helps you today in your career?All of the chemistry courses; they teach an analytic approach and critical thinking skills. And, the business courses at Wharton (U of Penn) were all good too.What do you do for fun?Spend time with family especially our grandchildren (boy is a Boy Scout, girl is a Girl Scout), serve on the Board of Dominic Walsh Dance Theater, birding, hiking, fishing (when I can talk my husband into it), genealogy.Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Dont limit yourself - consider everything but focus on the things you do well and enjoy! Read a lot about career paths, and most importantly, talk to people who are actually doing those careers.What are your favorite books to read over the summer?Adventure and fantasy, mysteries.
In HS, an XRAY Technologist (a good friend talked me out of that), first year college, a Microbiologist, second year college, a chemist. After graduation and 5 years of work, I decided I didnt like that, so I went back to school and got an MBA. Tried a year at HR, but decided I liked marketing better. Ive been doing some kind of marketing ever since (so I guess I finally got it!).
All of the chemistry courses; they teach an analytic approach and critical thinking skills. And, the business courses at Wharton (U of Penn) were all good too.
Spend time with family especially our grandchildren (boy is a Boy Scout, girl is a Girl Scout), serve on the Board of Dominic Walsh Dance Theater, birding, hiking, fishing (when I can talk my husband into it), genealogy.
Dont limit yourself - consider everything but focus on the things you do well and enjoy! Read a lot about career paths, and most importantly, talk to people who are actually doing those careers.
Adventure and fantasy, mysteries.
Growing up I always knew I wanted to be a Broadcast Journalist because I loved keeping up with current events and BOY could I talk!
English and Public Speaking
For fun I love to spend time with my son, husband and family. I also like to sell purses and attend festivals.
Make sure that you select a career that you would consider a hobby, that way you will always enjoy what you do!
I read a lot of kids books now because I read to my son, but the one book I never tire of reading is the Bible.
Misha McClure
Community Relations and Promotions Specialist for the Greensheet
Susan McConnell
Human Resource Manager/Director
Have fun in life, enjoy every day, do what you love, take chances, ask for help, love your family and friends...and thank God for each day.
A model and ballroom dancer.
Best course in school that helps you today in your position various business management courses and HR courses.
Ballroom dance lessons; movies; read; write poetry; play with my 2 doggies; spend time with my beautiful daughter who is obtaining her Masters degree in business; go on vacations - see a new place each year!
Pick something you really enjoy and are passionate about... it may change later, as most people do change careers several times. This gives us an opportunity to learn various careers in life.
Many! And enjoy watching movies after reading the books, or before reading the books. Science-fiction, mystery, love stories.
Geophysicist
Robyn Marchand
I wanted to be an archeologist when I was younger. Exploring for ancient items or remains really was exciting to me. Dorky as it sounds, I loved the Indiana Jones movies!! This desire lead me to take Earth Science classes and get exposed to Geology & Geophysics, which is what I am doing now.
Geology Field Course (college course)! It was an awesome class! For a month we mapped different areas in Montana. We used compasses, scales and our own two feet walking around miles of area and figuring out the geology. It made us apply all the knowledge that we gained in the classroom to completing our maps.
Travel, workout and spend time with my family! Your family can be the best people in your life, always keep them close to your heart!
Find something that you are passionate about. Your career is something you will most likely do for the rest of your life. Find something that keeps you motivated and loving to wake up each morning and go to work!
The Fledgling (5th grade) Any book by Ronald Dahl (Jr high) Night Jasmine (high school)
What did you want to be when you grew up?Growing up I always wanted to be a teacher and I that is because I enjoy teaching and helping others.What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?Courses in school that are beneficial for my job I feel are science and math. Science, because of the human body and math because I use formulas.What do you do for fun?For fun I enjoy horseback riding, going to the movies and reading.Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Tips for girls who may select being an Educator or a Radiographer (X-ray technologist); take more science and math courses.Your favorite book to read over the summer?I just finished Copper Sun, and it was fantastic.(It was my daughter's accelerated reading book)
Growing up I always wanted to be a teacher and I that is because I enjoy teaching and helping others.
Courses in school that are beneficial for my job I feel are science and math. Science, because of the human body and math because I use formulas.
For fun I enjoy horseback riding, going to the movies and reading.
Tips for girls who may select being an Educator or a Radiographer (X-ray technologist); take more science and math courses.
I just finished Copper Sun, and it was fantastic.
(It was my daughter's accelerated reading book)
Natalie A. Moore-Latin
Clinical and Didactic Instructor for their Radiologic Technology Program at Southern University Shreveport
My job entails me teaching students in the classroom what they would need to know about taking x-ray equipment, taking x-rays and how the radiographs are to look. In the clinical setting (students working in the area hospitals and clinics) I supervise the students to ensure they are using the correct technical factors and positioning patients correctly for the procedures.
I wanted to be the first woman president of the United States. It looks like someone will beat me to that aspiration but I just remember wanting to be a in role where I could make a real visible difference and impact.
I would have to say Communications. Ive come to learn that communication is the heart of everything. If you can learn to communicate well, you will go far!
I enjoy marathon running and fitness. I also enjoy a good book, travel and volunteering my time.
Always aim high, focus on what you are good at and have a circle of mentors. Ive found having a network of mentors and coaches has made all the difference in my life and career. Dont limit yourself and remember to take very good care of you!
I loved Nancy Drew when I was growing up or anything by Shell Silverstein!
Katie Mehnert
Manager for Shell in the Health and Safety group
LaShawanda Moore
Salesperson & Style Consultant
I am now using my engineering degree and Masters in Business Administration to sell and market chemicals such as refrigerants in the DuPont Co. I am also a Style Consultant and region manager for lia sophia fashion jewelry company.
It changed quite a bit. The ones I remember the most is that I wanted to be a dentist at one point and then a mortician!
Math
Hang out with kids, husband, other couples, and my girlfriends
Think about what you really enjoy doing. Find a major that will help you do what you love. Never settle for something because of money/income potential. If you love what you do, then you will grow passion for it and the income will increase w/ time, experience and leadership. However, do your research to understand the job market and prediction for job opportunities when you graduate. The last thing you want is to have a degree and no job.
Bible-Book of Proverbs - read a chapter a day
Susan McEldoon
KHOU-TV
President and General Manager
I am the President and General Manager of KHOU. In this role I am responsible for the various activities that are required to run the TV station and our Web site. News, Sales, Programming, Production, Promotions, Engineering, Finance. I represent the TV station in the community and I sit on several community boards.
What did you want to be when you grew up?I wanted to be a nurse. My mother was a nurse and worked full time while raising four children (with a lot of help from my dad). When I was a young girl, most mothers were stay home moms. In the rare instance that a mom worked outside the house she was either a nurse, a teacher, a secretary or in some lower-level administrative support position. When I was a senior in high school and ready to graduate and head off to nursing school, I finally realized that I could be anything I wanted to be, changed my mind about a career in nursing and went out to find my way in the world. What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?There were many courses that helped me and I cant pick one specifically. My favorite subjects, however, were organizational behavior, logistics, history and sociology. What do you do for fun?I enjoy spending time with my husband and adult children, riding my bicycle, tending my flowers and plants in my courtyard, walking my little dog Comet, boating and reading.Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?YOU can be ANYTHING you want to be. Find a field of work that you LOVE. There are many ups and downs over the course of your career but if youre passionate about your field of work you will find inspiration and satisfaction that can last a lifetime. Your favorite book to read over the summer?Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout. Set in small town Maine, it is a beautifully written collection of 13 short stories about a strong female character named Olive. The book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2009 and is a fun, quick readvery suitable for young women and great for the beach!
I wanted to be a nurse. My mother was a nurse and worked full time while raising four children (with a lot of help from my dad). When I was a young girl, most mothers were stay home moms. In the rare instance that a mom worked outside the house she was either a nurse, a teacher, a secretary or in some lower-level administrative support position. When I was a senior in high school and ready to graduate and head off to nursing school, I finally realized that I could be anything I wanted to be, changed my mind about a career in nursing and went out to find my way in the world.
There were many courses that helped me and I cant pick one specifically. My favorite subjects, however, were organizational behavior, logistics, history and sociology.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and adult children, riding my bicycle, tending my flowers and plants in my courtyard, walking my little dog Comet, boating and reading.
YOU can be ANYTHING you want to be. Find a field of work that you LOVE. There are many ups and downs over the course of your career but if youre passionate about your field of work you will find inspiration and satisfaction that can last a lifetime.
Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout. Set in small town Maine, it is a beautifully written collection of 13 short stories about a strong female character named Olive. The book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2009 and is a fun, quick readvery suitable for young women and great for the beach!
Susan Michael-Nimrichter
I am an Inventory and Production Control Manager at a solar manufacturing plant in Tucson, Arizona!
I wanted to be a nurse.
I have to say there are two that stand out and those would be English and Math.
What do you do for fun-Enjoying the wonderful things about our world makes me happy. I take pleasure in seeing a tiny, little flower in the crack of a sidewalk and watching a lizard or other wildlife as they go about their business of the day. We have fantastic storms during our summer monsoon here in 'The Old Pueblo' and watching the lightning is always fascinating to me. I also enjoy reading Sue Grafton novels :)
I would hope that they would strive to choose something they really enjoy. If a career is fulfilling in other ways besides monetary (which can be very nice too), then you won't feel as though you "had to work" for a living.
"Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. I've heard nice reviews :)
Carol Menendez
Student & Intern
Right now, I am a full time student at The University of Texas at Austin (Hook em Horns!) I am currently an intern with Pennino and Partners, a strategic communications and relationship development consultation service. I do a lot of client research and put together documents with current media publications on our clients.
What did you want to be when you grew up?When I was a little girl, I really wanted to be a veterinarian. I loved horses as a child and at the time, taking care of them when they were sick seemed like a wonderful thing to do. What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?My favorite course to date is Intro to Psychology. Psychology doesn't necessarily have anything to do with my degree and field of work, but it is so useful for every day life! It's so interesting trying to figure out what people are thinking and why they do the things they do. In a way, you have to know how people work in order to effectively communicate with them and better know how to advertise and market to their needs and wants.What do you do for fun?I love to read! I also love to eat! Trying new foods is always fun! I also like to check out new places that I’ve never been before -- whether it’s a new restaurant, coffee shop, or clothing boutique!Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?My tip for all young girls is to take your time! You are in no rush what so ever to grow up! Change your mind as many times as you want when it comes to your career. Just make sure that you love what you do!Your favorite book to read over the summer?When I was younger, I read so many books! But the one that I read the most was Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry.
When I was a little girl, I really wanted to be a veterinarian. I loved horses as a child and at the time, taking care of them when they were sick seemed like a wonderful thing to do.
My favorite course to date is Intro to Psychology. Psychology doesn't necessarily have anything to do with my degree and field of work, but it is so useful for every day life! It's so interesting trying to figure out what people are thinking and why they do the things they do. In a way, you have to know how people work in order to effectively communicate with them and better know how to advertise and market to their needs and wants.
I love to read! I also love to eat! Trying new foods is always fun! I also like to check out new places that I’ve never been before -- whether it’s a new restaurant, coffee shop, or clothing boutique!
My tip for all young girls is to take your time! You are in no rush what so ever to grow up! Change your mind as many times as you want when it comes to your career. Just make sure that you love what you do!
When I was younger, I read so many books! But the one that I read the most was Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry.
What did you want to be when you grew up?I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a teacher. What was the best course in school you took that helps you today?I do quite a bit of math in my current position and think that my math courses have helped me greatly. English classes also have helped with the numerous reports that I have to write about property conditions. What do you do for fun?I enjoy anything outdoors. I try really hard year after year on my garden, and I chase my children around in the backyard.Do you have any hints for girls as they select a career?Follow your heart and select a career that you are passionate about, not just a career that makes a lot of money. Also, know that it is okay to start in one career and years later decide that you want to do something else.Your favorite book to read over the summer?I read a lot of gardening books.
I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a teacher.
I do quite a bit of math in my current position and think that my math courses have helped me greatly. English classes also have helped with the numerous reports that I have to write about property conditions.
I enjoy anything outdoors. I try really hard year after year on my garden, and I chase my children around in the backyard.
Follow your heart and select a career that you are passionate about, not just a career that makes a lot of money. Also, know that it is okay to start in one career and years later decide that you want to do something else.
I read a lot of gardening books.
Jessica Morel
Real Estate
After several years of teaching elementary school, I made a career change into real estate. I am now working with residential buyers and sellers and helping them make informed choices when it comes to buying and selling real estate. I also work with Wells Fargo Bank conducting the sales process for REO (Real Estate Owned) properties.
