As a person who works to represent the customer point-of-view in advertising, I have celebrated the entry of the weblog as the advent of the voice of the consumer becoming an active part of much larger conversations. I lauded the "little guy" having an 'equal' chance to voice his or her opinion along with those "big guys" who have controlled the conversation in the media for centuries.
However, as a graduate of a journalism school, I concurrently (there's a big-word-- thanks for the journalism education, Mom!) wondered whether or not the new flux of ideas would crowd out the trusted and extraordinarily well-trained voices that had been accurately and evenly reporting to the nation for centuries.
At its smallest, blogging allows for the free expression of an individual's thoughts and feelings with self and others. At its largest, it allows for a discourse of ideas that have potential to create critical mass around items that never might have had an opportunity to surface otherwise. Over the past years, blogging has lived up to its largest potential, and is now considered a force to be rekoned with instead of dismissed. The "Dan Rather Incident" and other canary-in-the-cave moments brought blogs credibility as investigative whistle-blowers, quicker to the punch than mainstream media news. Now, extremely popular news blogs like Huffington Post are ready by about 4 million Americans a month, and thereby are considered practically mainstream media news. These developments have brought many to a point of asking: is blogging the new news?
(And if it is, does that make Tweeting the new blogging, or vlogging is the new blogging, or...)
Andrew Sullivan is a true pioneer of blogging, and he's still one of the best. He traded in the moment-by-moment commentary of the blog recently to analyze blogging in long form, in "Why I Blog," a piece that is part of The Atlantic magazine this month.
In this incredibly thoughtful piece, Sullivan debunks some popular myths about blogging. And then, he shows why blogging is complementary to-- and even enhances, traditional journalism. (He does this through the avenue of a traditional journalism piece-- using the writing process of the magazine article to draw his points about differences between the written piece and a digital blog.)
I'm now convinced that the analogy of blogging to traditional journalism is like microwave to traditional oven -- both standard in every kitchen and complimentary to one another. I think you will be, too, if you read the brilliant article by Sullivan:
http://www.blogger.com/www.theatlantic.com/doc/200811/andrew-sullivan-why-i-blog
Monday, October 27, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
It’s Fall! A beautiful time to be in Athens, so enjoy it!
It’s Fall! A beautiful time to be in Athens, so enjoy it!
- Chelsea Hamilton, BSJ ’06 PR
Fall at OU was always my favorite time of year. Everyone is back on campus catching up on the summer vacations, internships and jobs and excited for the new school year. Senior year was the hardest because I knew it would be my last time to enjoy my favorite time at OU. How did I cope? I took some time for myself and enjoyed Athens, the surrounding and my friends. You see, I quickly learned my freshman year that it’s all about balance – balancing school, fun and work. Once I found the right mixture, my years at OU fell into place.
If you are a senior year, this year is hectic with making sure you have enough credits, updating resumes, writing cover letters and looking for jobs, but don’t forget to take time out for yourself. The Athens area and OU has so much to offer this time of year. Take a trip to Old Mans Cave – the scenery is so beautiful and it’s a great place to hike and relax after finishing up those mid-terms. Sit on College Green and take in everything that is Ohio University because it truly is a wonderful place that you will miss very much. Or grab a coffee at Perks (my old place of employment) and read a book and glance out the window at those passing by. You deserve some time to yourself, so take it!
If you are an underclassman, just explore. It’s a great time to look into different student organizations and find a good fit for you! It’s also a good time to start off-campus house hunting, believe me, it’s never to early to start looking for a house or apartment for your junior and senior year!
If you are an upper classman, fall is a good time to give back and maybe help out the underclassman, especially freshman, as they begin their college life and journey to the real world. I’m sure many of you have had or do have mentors that have helped guide you along the way. It’s a nice thing to give back and help others the same way others may have helped you. And it’s something that you may want to continue to do after graduation, as I have done with keeping in contact with PRSSA and joining SAF.
During this time between classes and studying, just be sure to take some time for yourself and leave behind the school work and stress and just be. Just be with your friends, enjoy your surroundings and most importantly have fun!
Chelsea Hamilton, a 2006 Scripps grad, is currently Field Marketing Communications/PR Manager with Bob Evans Farms, Inc. She can be reached: Chelsea.Hamilton@BobEvans.com
- Chelsea Hamilton, BSJ ’06 PR
Fall at OU was always my favorite time of year. Everyone is back on campus catching up on the summer vacations, internships and jobs and excited for the new school year. Senior year was the hardest because I knew it would be my last time to enjoy my favorite time at OU. How did I cope? I took some time for myself and enjoyed Athens, the surrounding and my friends. You see, I quickly learned my freshman year that it’s all about balance – balancing school, fun and work. Once I found the right mixture, my years at OU fell into place.
If you are a senior year, this year is hectic with making sure you have enough credits, updating resumes, writing cover letters and looking for jobs, but don’t forget to take time out for yourself. The Athens area and OU has so much to offer this time of year. Take a trip to Old Mans Cave – the scenery is so beautiful and it’s a great place to hike and relax after finishing up those mid-terms. Sit on College Green and take in everything that is Ohio University because it truly is a wonderful place that you will miss very much. Or grab a coffee at Perks (my old place of employment) and read a book and glance out the window at those passing by. You deserve some time to yourself, so take it!
If you are an underclassman, just explore. It’s a great time to look into different student organizations and find a good fit for you! It’s also a good time to start off-campus house hunting, believe me, it’s never to early to start looking for a house or apartment for your junior and senior year!
If you are an upper classman, fall is a good time to give back and maybe help out the underclassman, especially freshman, as they begin their college life and journey to the real world. I’m sure many of you have had or do have mentors that have helped guide you along the way. It’s a nice thing to give back and help others the same way others may have helped you. And it’s something that you may want to continue to do after graduation, as I have done with keeping in contact with PRSSA and joining SAF.
During this time between classes and studying, just be sure to take some time for yourself and leave behind the school work and stress and just be. Just be with your friends, enjoy your surroundings and most importantly have fun!
Chelsea Hamilton, a 2006 Scripps grad, is currently Field Marketing Communications/PR Manager with Bob Evans Farms, Inc. She can be reached: Chelsea.Hamilton@BobEvans.com
Friday, October 3, 2008
Could I Consider a Career in the Non-Profit World?
Could I Consider a Career in the Non-Profit World?
By Valerie Hillow
As I sat in my public relations classes that final quarter I spent as a student in Scripps Hall my senior year, I imagined what the next phase of my life would be like. I had never wavered in my decision to be a public relations major, and I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Scripps School of Journalism during my four years at Ohio University, so I figured the next logical step would be to work at a public relations agency.
I had shadowed at a public relations/advertising agency in Cleveland and had fallen in love with the idea of working there. I thought I would start out on a few smaller accounts and do projects like newsletters, media kits, perhaps, even a special event or two. I would work my way up to my own accounts and get to share my great ideas with the clients within a few years. Or at least that is what I assumed. Instead, my career path took a very different twist.
I came home for a weekend during that last quarter of college and met a woman who turned out to be Executive Director of the American Heart Association in Cleveland. She asked me lots of questions about my job options and career goals. I guess she saw a spark in me that she didn’t want to pass up. She began subtly recruiting me to work for her. So my first piece of advice is that you never know when you’re going to be networking, so you should always be prepared to talk, and to listen!
She explained that if I could get my foot in the door and see if I liked the kind of work I was doing, she knew there would be lots of career opportunity for me. I began interviewing with the Human Resources department, and then came to Cleveland and met the team. Just two days after OU's Commencement Ceremony, the American Heart Association offered me a job, and I decided to take a leap of faith. Four years later, I have never looked back.
Working for a non-profit organization, such as the American Heart Association, which has an extremely strong national presence and many resources, has provided me limitless opportunities for career growth and personal skill development. I started as a Communications Associate, and within 6 months was promoted to the position of Heart Walk Manager. After a year and a half in that role, I was again promoted, this time to the position of Special Events Director. My responsibilities have increased ten-fold from that first position.
That leads to my next piece of advice when seeking a job in a non-profit organization - don’t be afraid to start at the bottom. You will have a chance to observe and learn, and if you are good at what you do, and put in the extra time, someone will notice and move you up.
According to www.learningtogive.org, and a paper called Career Options in the Nonprofit Sector by Amy Vaugan on their Website, non-profit organizations hire for all types of positions, from chief executive officer to receptionist. Moreover, most nonprofits need individuals with strong communication and fundraising skills. Examples of jobs include development directors, public relations managers, fundraisers, museum curators, artists, administrative staff, counselors, teachers, researchers, writers, public policy specialists, community activists, program officers, and librarians. Nearly 11 million people worked as employees of nonprofit organizations in 1996, or approximately 7% of the nation's workforce.
I highly recommend looking into jobs in the non-profit sector. Some online resources that might help you search for a job in the non-profit sector are The Chronicle of Philanthropy at www.philanthropy.com, The Community Career Center at www.nonprofitjobs.org, and The Philanthropy News Network Online at www.philanthropyjournal.org.
Working somewhere such as the American Heart Association, no two days will ever be spent the same way. Your professional life will be filled with challenges, adventures and a lot of learning as you go along. In a given week, I use skills in public relations, public speaking, event planning, fundraising, outside sales, basic accounting, new business development and relationship building.
I have also learned that "sales" is not a dirty word, as I once thought it to be, and better yet, I have learned that I am good at it. That’s my next piece of advice – don’t be afraid of sales! So much of my sales approach is made up of the foundation I have from my journalism degree. I can express myself through the written word and the spoken word clearly and concisely. My proposals and sponsorship letters have nice graphic elements and a professional quality that was learned in Scripps Hall. My relationship building skills and soft sales approach is peppered with the social skills that were honed throughout the campus of Ohio University.
I have worked directly with Cleveland media outlets - television, radio, newspaper, magazine and online, and have a comfort level beyond some of my co-workers due to my journalism background. I plan social events for 600 guests and outdoor events for 5,000 participants. I organize meetings, recruit leadership, coach speakers, set ambitious goals and sell sponsorships. I meet new and interesting people every day - there is no time to be shy or nervous! I have met with Chief Executive Officers, Presidents and Senior Vice Presidents of countless corporations, hospitals and industries throughout Cleveland. I have had so many opportunities to talk with these well-respected professionals and learn from them simply by observing the way they do business.
In a resource book called Jobs and Careers With Non-Profit Organizations by Ron and Caryl Krannich, which is referenced on www.learningtogive.org, they dispel the myths related to working in the nonprofit sector. They state that non-profit jobs are not dead-end jobs. Instead, many individuals develop long-term careers in the sector. Similarly, they dispel the myth that nonprofits only offer low salaries and few benefits; in fact, many organizations, especially health groups, research organizations, foundations, and business and professional associations, offer excellent salaries and benefits. Krannich and Krannich also stated that some of the benefits of working in the non-profit sector include rewarding, interesting and exciting work in a positive environment; easier to gain entry level employment, as well as opportunities to gain valuable experiences and career advancement.
These are certainly all things that I can attest to. My life would be very different today if I had not chosen to work for a non-profit organization. I hope this will at least help some of you seeking jobs to consider an option that you might not have known much about previously. I am glad I did!
Valerie Hillow is a 2003 Scripps graduate.
By Valerie Hillow
As I sat in my public relations classes that final quarter I spent as a student in Scripps Hall my senior year, I imagined what the next phase of my life would be like. I had never wavered in my decision to be a public relations major, and I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Scripps School of Journalism during my four years at Ohio University, so I figured the next logical step would be to work at a public relations agency.
I had shadowed at a public relations/advertising agency in Cleveland and had fallen in love with the idea of working there. I thought I would start out on a few smaller accounts and do projects like newsletters, media kits, perhaps, even a special event or two. I would work my way up to my own accounts and get to share my great ideas with the clients within a few years. Or at least that is what I assumed. Instead, my career path took a very different twist.
I came home for a weekend during that last quarter of college and met a woman who turned out to be Executive Director of the American Heart Association in Cleveland. She asked me lots of questions about my job options and career goals. I guess she saw a spark in me that she didn’t want to pass up. She began subtly recruiting me to work for her. So my first piece of advice is that you never know when you’re going to be networking, so you should always be prepared to talk, and to listen!
She explained that if I could get my foot in the door and see if I liked the kind of work I was doing, she knew there would be lots of career opportunity for me. I began interviewing with the Human Resources department, and then came to Cleveland and met the team. Just two days after OU's Commencement Ceremony, the American Heart Association offered me a job, and I decided to take a leap of faith. Four years later, I have never looked back.
Working for a non-profit organization, such as the American Heart Association, which has an extremely strong national presence and many resources, has provided me limitless opportunities for career growth and personal skill development. I started as a Communications Associate, and within 6 months was promoted to the position of Heart Walk Manager. After a year and a half in that role, I was again promoted, this time to the position of Special Events Director. My responsibilities have increased ten-fold from that first position.
That leads to my next piece of advice when seeking a job in a non-profit organization - don’t be afraid to start at the bottom. You will have a chance to observe and learn, and if you are good at what you do, and put in the extra time, someone will notice and move you up.
According to www.learningtogive.org, and a paper called Career Options in the Nonprofit Sector by Amy Vaugan on their Website, non-profit organizations hire for all types of positions, from chief executive officer to receptionist. Moreover, most nonprofits need individuals with strong communication and fundraising skills. Examples of jobs include development directors, public relations managers, fundraisers, museum curators, artists, administrative staff, counselors, teachers, researchers, writers, public policy specialists, community activists, program officers, and librarians. Nearly 11 million people worked as employees of nonprofit organizations in 1996, or approximately 7% of the nation's workforce.
I highly recommend looking into jobs in the non-profit sector. Some online resources that might help you search for a job in the non-profit sector are The Chronicle of Philanthropy at www.philanthropy.com, The Community Career Center at www.nonprofitjobs.org, and The Philanthropy News Network Online at www.philanthropyjournal.org.
Working somewhere such as the American Heart Association, no two days will ever be spent the same way. Your professional life will be filled with challenges, adventures and a lot of learning as you go along. In a given week, I use skills in public relations, public speaking, event planning, fundraising, outside sales, basic accounting, new business development and relationship building.
I have also learned that "sales" is not a dirty word, as I once thought it to be, and better yet, I have learned that I am good at it. That’s my next piece of advice – don’t be afraid of sales! So much of my sales approach is made up of the foundation I have from my journalism degree. I can express myself through the written word and the spoken word clearly and concisely. My proposals and sponsorship letters have nice graphic elements and a professional quality that was learned in Scripps Hall. My relationship building skills and soft sales approach is peppered with the social skills that were honed throughout the campus of Ohio University.
I have worked directly with Cleveland media outlets - television, radio, newspaper, magazine and online, and have a comfort level beyond some of my co-workers due to my journalism background. I plan social events for 600 guests and outdoor events for 5,000 participants. I organize meetings, recruit leadership, coach speakers, set ambitious goals and sell sponsorships. I meet new and interesting people every day - there is no time to be shy or nervous! I have met with Chief Executive Officers, Presidents and Senior Vice Presidents of countless corporations, hospitals and industries throughout Cleveland. I have had so many opportunities to talk with these well-respected professionals and learn from them simply by observing the way they do business.
In a resource book called Jobs and Careers With Non-Profit Organizations by Ron and Caryl Krannich, which is referenced on www.learningtogive.org, they dispel the myths related to working in the nonprofit sector. They state that non-profit jobs are not dead-end jobs. Instead, many individuals develop long-term careers in the sector. Similarly, they dispel the myth that nonprofits only offer low salaries and few benefits; in fact, many organizations, especially health groups, research organizations, foundations, and business and professional associations, offer excellent salaries and benefits. Krannich and Krannich also stated that some of the benefits of working in the non-profit sector include rewarding, interesting and exciting work in a positive environment; easier to gain entry level employment, as well as opportunities to gain valuable experiences and career advancement.
These are certainly all things that I can attest to. My life would be very different today if I had not chosen to work for a non-profit organization. I hope this will at least help some of you seeking jobs to consider an option that you might not have known much about previously. I am glad I did!
Valerie Hillow is a 2003 Scripps graduate.
Wanted: More Purple Cows
Wanted: More Purple Cows
Why Risk is the Key to Successful Networking
by Aaron Brown
Regardless of how many times students have heard that networking is the most critical element of a job search, they seemingly always hesitate to grow their own network. It’s as if the key to the future is across the road but students are the chicken that can’t figure out how to get there.
Ultimately, those that cross the road are the ones that are willing to take a risk. Renown author Seth Godin writes in his book Purple Cow that those individuals willing to take risks to be remarkable are the ones that will achieve success. In contrast, those individuals content with being black and white cows will remain as part of the pack with no unique characteristics.
In lieu of physically turning yourself purple, try these seven strategies when seeking to build your network:
Put yourself in situations where networking can occur: There is nothing reactive about building a functioning network. Students need to attend meetings and presentations by professionals who can be part of their network. They need to leverage the vast alumni directories available to them. They need to capitalize on memberships to professional student groups to gain access to the parent organization’s membership directory.
Take a risk and introduce yourself: The worst thing that can happen when attempting to build your network is that the person does not have time to talk to you or they do not return your e-mail. You’re essentially right where you were beforehand—you haven’t taken any steps backward. So, take a risk and go up to someone to (a) thank them for their presentation, (b) let them know you are fascinated by their company and would love to learn more, or (c) let them know that you saw their name in a directory and wanted to learn a bit more about their career as you think their opinions could benefit your career interests.
Leverage your position as a student: At this point in your career, people are going to be more willing than ever to help you. As professionals, we’ve all been where you are now. Professionals will make time for students who treat those professionals courteously and with the respect they deserve.
Seek to find common ground with the person: Bobcats are helping Bobcats every day. Despite our biased beliefs, Bobcats are not in every power journalism position around. In your networking conversation, find common ground with the person. This common ground can come in the form of hometowns, opinions on current trends, favorite local restaurants, similar people in your network, or even sports.
Don’t forgot to be normal: While you’re establishing common ground, don’t forget to be normal. There is no benefit in adding personal pressure while trying to establish a relationship. Being yourself will go a lot further than being an overzealous student who is obviously searching for anyone willing to give them an interview. In fact, many companies hire entry-level professionals as much for personality and cultural fit as they do for pure talent.
Give yourself another touch point: As you exit the conversation, find a way to build in another touch point with the newest member of your network so that it stays fresh. This touch point can be sending a brief e-mail telling the person that you enjoyed the conversation. It can be asking them if they’re coming down for Homecoming next year or if they’ll be at the same conference/event next year. Maybe the touch point is an e-mail to ask some more questions that you weren’t able to get to during the first meeting. Finally, don’t forget the reliable cup of coffee. It’s an unassuming, low pressure setting that enables personalities to show through. (If you don’t drink coffee, grab a hot chocolate or tea.)
Identify your sneezers: Forgive the unhealthy analogy, but the best networks include sneezers that will spread your story to other professionals who are not yet in your network. It’s through these sneezers that you’ll uncover the job opportunities that aren’t posted and the powerful people that can put you in situations to be remarkable.
Along with this opportunity to be remarkable comes the similar call be a Purple Cow; but you’ll never get there if you aren’t willing to take a risk in the first place. So get purple and get a job, or stay black and white and be ordinary.
Aaron Brown (BSJ ‘01) is an account supervisor at Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations in Columbus, Ohio. He is the vice president of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism Society of Alumni and Friends. Aaron can be reached at aaron.brown@fahlgren.com.
Why Risk is the Key to Successful Networking
by Aaron Brown
Regardless of how many times students have heard that networking is the most critical element of a job search, they seemingly always hesitate to grow their own network. It’s as if the key to the future is across the road but students are the chicken that can’t figure out how to get there.
Ultimately, those that cross the road are the ones that are willing to take a risk. Renown author Seth Godin writes in his book Purple Cow that those individuals willing to take risks to be remarkable are the ones that will achieve success. In contrast, those individuals content with being black and white cows will remain as part of the pack with no unique characteristics.
In lieu of physically turning yourself purple, try these seven strategies when seeking to build your network:
Put yourself in situations where networking can occur: There is nothing reactive about building a functioning network. Students need to attend meetings and presentations by professionals who can be part of their network. They need to leverage the vast alumni directories available to them. They need to capitalize on memberships to professional student groups to gain access to the parent organization’s membership directory.
Take a risk and introduce yourself: The worst thing that can happen when attempting to build your network is that the person does not have time to talk to you or they do not return your e-mail. You’re essentially right where you were beforehand—you haven’t taken any steps backward. So, take a risk and go up to someone to (a) thank them for their presentation, (b) let them know you are fascinated by their company and would love to learn more, or (c) let them know that you saw their name in a directory and wanted to learn a bit more about their career as you think their opinions could benefit your career interests.
Leverage your position as a student: At this point in your career, people are going to be more willing than ever to help you. As professionals, we’ve all been where you are now. Professionals will make time for students who treat those professionals courteously and with the respect they deserve.
Seek to find common ground with the person: Bobcats are helping Bobcats every day. Despite our biased beliefs, Bobcats are not in every power journalism position around. In your networking conversation, find common ground with the person. This common ground can come in the form of hometowns, opinions on current trends, favorite local restaurants, similar people in your network, or even sports.
Don’t forgot to be normal: While you’re establishing common ground, don’t forget to be normal. There is no benefit in adding personal pressure while trying to establish a relationship. Being yourself will go a lot further than being an overzealous student who is obviously searching for anyone willing to give them an interview. In fact, many companies hire entry-level professionals as much for personality and cultural fit as they do for pure talent.
Give yourself another touch point: As you exit the conversation, find a way to build in another touch point with the newest member of your network so that it stays fresh. This touch point can be sending a brief e-mail telling the person that you enjoyed the conversation. It can be asking them if they’re coming down for Homecoming next year or if they’ll be at the same conference/event next year. Maybe the touch point is an e-mail to ask some more questions that you weren’t able to get to during the first meeting. Finally, don’t forget the reliable cup of coffee. It’s an unassuming, low pressure setting that enables personalities to show through. (If you don’t drink coffee, grab a hot chocolate or tea.)
Identify your sneezers: Forgive the unhealthy analogy, but the best networks include sneezers that will spread your story to other professionals who are not yet in your network. It’s through these sneezers that you’ll uncover the job opportunities that aren’t posted and the powerful people that can put you in situations to be remarkable.
Along with this opportunity to be remarkable comes the similar call be a Purple Cow; but you’ll never get there if you aren’t willing to take a risk in the first place. So get purple and get a job, or stay black and white and be ordinary.
Aaron Brown (BSJ ‘01) is an account supervisor at Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations in Columbus, Ohio. He is the vice president of the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism Society of Alumni and Friends. Aaron can be reached at aaron.brown@fahlgren.com.
New City, New Friends
New City, New Friends
By Kevin Ziegler (BSJ ’06)
If only every city had nightlife, recreation, culture and a crowd of people you know within walking distance of your home. Ohio University had a near-perfect setup for social life, but living and working in a new city can mean starting fresh without the amenities of Athens.
Rebuilding a social network that keeps you busy and happy requires a diligent effort, but new friends can be found by looking in the right places.
Be Proactive
Relationship building is key to developing a healthy professional and social network, one that will advance your career and keep your weekends entertaining.
Michael Shaw (BBA ’03) is networking director for the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club (www.cleveland2030.com), an 800-plus member young professional organization. Shaw, a senior auditor for National City, plans events to bring together the large membership of the 20/30 Club. He suggests a proactive approach to building a social life.
“I was really bored one day and I Google searched for young professional groups,” said Shaw.
Internet searches are a start, but human resources departments or coworkers may have affiliations to share, along with insight into those organizations.
Young professional organizations and affinity groups bring people together based on common interests or activities. Shaw suggests seeking out organizations that allow you to meet people in a setting that you feel most comfortable. This can include volunteer work, casual networking or professional organizations that fit your career.
For journalism graduates, professional organizations with student chapters most likely have local chapters in most metro areas. Examples include the Society of Professional Journalists (www.spj.org), Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org) or the American Advertising Federation (www.aaf.org). Some companies will reimburse employees for certain memberships, or the dues can be negotiated into a starting offer.
Make Friends at Work
For a full-time worker, the majority of each week is spent in the office with the same group of coworkers. If you seem to develop good working relationships with coworkers, it may be a good opportunity to socialize outside of work.
Mike Cottrill (BSJ ’05) writes for Smart Business magazine and said work is a great place to make new friends.
“Sharing 40 hours a week gives a pretty good base for finding out some common interests,” said Cottrill. He also suggested attending company parties and meeting friends of coworkers and friends.
Outside the office, Cottrill said places like the gym and the bar are easy opportunities to meet new people.
For Cottrill, working in an office with a group of writers provided him with a workplace likely to have other people with common interests.
Find a Balance
Bars and parties are common nightlife options, but finding a work and social life balance is important. A first adjustment for recent graduates is often establishing a regular sleep schedule.
While some Ohio University students may have been able to get by on little sleep to make it to a morning class, in the workplace being groggy or unprepared for work reflects poorly on an individual.
Shaw said separating social life and work can be a challenge especially in learning to adjust habits that may have been acceptable as a college student.
“You need to be able to make that distinction,” he said. When out with coworkers Shaw advised recent graduates to be reserved in their behavior despite any pressures from colleagues adding that social activities still influence relationships during work hours.
“Definitely limit your [alcoholic] intake if you are with your manager or company owner,” he said.
On the flip side, work can consume put a crunch on social life, to an extent that limits outside activity.
Crain’s Cleveland Business Section Editor Amy Ann Stoessel (BSJ ??) said her job keeps her very busy so she is sure to take advantage of networking opportunities when they fit in with work.
“Always take an opportunitiy to get your face out there,” she said. “Get to know people, talk to people. Don’t sit in the corner.”
For Stoessel this means accepting lunch invititations and working a crowd when covering or attending an event.
Take Advantage of Opportunities
Being proactive about finding social opportunities will help you discover activities that fit your interests, but it is also important to take part in activities such as volunteering or intramural sports leagues that you may be approached with.
Filling a missing roster spot for your company’s softball team or representing your company at a charity event will certainly reflect well back at the office and it can be a team building activity.
In Cleveland, intramural leagues exist for flag and touch football (www.usftl.com) and softball (www.softballworldohio.com).
Shaw suggests devoting a few hours per month to seeking volunteer opportunities or participating in the events that your organization already organizes. Being involved in the community can be influential in career advancement, he said.
Kevin Ziegler is a 2006 Scripps graduate.
By Kevin Ziegler (BSJ ’06)
If only every city had nightlife, recreation, culture and a crowd of people you know within walking distance of your home. Ohio University had a near-perfect setup for social life, but living and working in a new city can mean starting fresh without the amenities of Athens.
Rebuilding a social network that keeps you busy and happy requires a diligent effort, but new friends can be found by looking in the right places.
Be Proactive
Relationship building is key to developing a healthy professional and social network, one that will advance your career and keep your weekends entertaining.
Michael Shaw (BBA ’03) is networking director for the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club (www.cleveland2030.com), an 800-plus member young professional organization. Shaw, a senior auditor for National City, plans events to bring together the large membership of the 20/30 Club. He suggests a proactive approach to building a social life.
“I was really bored one day and I Google searched for young professional groups,” said Shaw.
Internet searches are a start, but human resources departments or coworkers may have affiliations to share, along with insight into those organizations.
Young professional organizations and affinity groups bring people together based on common interests or activities. Shaw suggests seeking out organizations that allow you to meet people in a setting that you feel most comfortable. This can include volunteer work, casual networking or professional organizations that fit your career.
For journalism graduates, professional organizations with student chapters most likely have local chapters in most metro areas. Examples include the Society of Professional Journalists (www.spj.org), Public Relations Society of America (www.prsa.org) or the American Advertising Federation (www.aaf.org). Some companies will reimburse employees for certain memberships, or the dues can be negotiated into a starting offer.
Make Friends at Work
For a full-time worker, the majority of each week is spent in the office with the same group of coworkers. If you seem to develop good working relationships with coworkers, it may be a good opportunity to socialize outside of work.
Mike Cottrill (BSJ ’05) writes for Smart Business magazine and said work is a great place to make new friends.
“Sharing 40 hours a week gives a pretty good base for finding out some common interests,” said Cottrill. He also suggested attending company parties and meeting friends of coworkers and friends.
Outside the office, Cottrill said places like the gym and the bar are easy opportunities to meet new people.
For Cottrill, working in an office with a group of writers provided him with a workplace likely to have other people with common interests.
Find a Balance
Bars and parties are common nightlife options, but finding a work and social life balance is important. A first adjustment for recent graduates is often establishing a regular sleep schedule.
While some Ohio University students may have been able to get by on little sleep to make it to a morning class, in the workplace being groggy or unprepared for work reflects poorly on an individual.
Shaw said separating social life and work can be a challenge especially in learning to adjust habits that may have been acceptable as a college student.
“You need to be able to make that distinction,” he said. When out with coworkers Shaw advised recent graduates to be reserved in their behavior despite any pressures from colleagues adding that social activities still influence relationships during work hours.
“Definitely limit your [alcoholic] intake if you are with your manager or company owner,” he said.
On the flip side, work can consume put a crunch on social life, to an extent that limits outside activity.
Crain’s Cleveland Business Section Editor Amy Ann Stoessel (BSJ ??) said her job keeps her very busy so she is sure to take advantage of networking opportunities when they fit in with work.
“Always take an opportunitiy to get your face out there,” she said. “Get to know people, talk to people. Don’t sit in the corner.”
For Stoessel this means accepting lunch invititations and working a crowd when covering or attending an event.
Take Advantage of Opportunities
Being proactive about finding social opportunities will help you discover activities that fit your interests, but it is also important to take part in activities such as volunteering or intramural sports leagues that you may be approached with.
Filling a missing roster spot for your company’s softball team or representing your company at a charity event will certainly reflect well back at the office and it can be a team building activity.
In Cleveland, intramural leagues exist for flag and touch football (www.usftl.com) and softball (www.softballworldohio.com).
Shaw suggests devoting a few hours per month to seeking volunteer opportunities or participating in the events that your organization already organizes. Being involved in the community can be influential in career advancement, he said.
Kevin Ziegler is a 2006 Scripps graduate.
City Profile: New York City
City Profile: New York City
by Shannon Stucky
In thinking about this column and what pearls of wisdom I may have to share, two things strike me as rather ironic. First, working with native New Yorkers, I typically think of myself as somewhat of a novice in the ways of New York life. Second, I often think of my life as fairly mundane. After all, I still spend the majority of my time at work. There’s still laundry to be done, an apartment to be cleaned, and dishes to be washed.
But then there are those moments: I meticulously position myself in the Subway, so I’ll arrive directly in front of the exit at my next stop. I choose the perfect restaurant for an out-of-town guest. I look down at my feet and realize I’ve adopted the requisite black boots. It’s at these moments that I think perhaps I have learned a thing or two. And so I write—the Ohio girl I’ll always be masquerading as a resident of New York (not quite a New Yorker).
Housing
Sitting in the back of the family conversion van, wedged between suitcases packed with new business suits, old college textbooks and a few odd pots and pans, I navigated the streets of what I now know to be Spanish Harlem alternately admiring the cute little neighborhood and praying that the building in front of me wasn’t my new apartment. The fact was I had no idea where I was going, but wherever I landed, there was a six-month lease and two new roommates waiting for me.
In the midst of the holiday rush, my apartment search seemed adequate. I profiled potential roommates on Roommates.com, spoke with one of the new roomies and my predecessor on the phone, and mailed my check to the landlord. I knew three basic truths:
1) Roommates.com had worked well for a friend, who relocated to DC.
2) My commute would be easy (one train that stopped a block from the apartment).
3) My friends would be welcomed in the new place.
At the time, that seemed good enough, but when I actually left home, I wasn’t quite so sure. What if it was all a scam, and I had just thrown my first month’s rent (plus deposit) down the drain? What if the apartment was infested with rats? What if these roommates were just better at hiding their craziness than the others already discarded from my list of possibilities?
I’m happy to report that none of these fears became a reality, but after living in the city for two years, I would add a few do’s and don’ts based on my own experience:
DO: Consider a roommate location service. Roommates.com is a great place to find apartments—it’s basically a dating service for roommates, which allows you to narrow your list of potential apartments based on everything from gender, age and sexual orientation to neighborhood and smoking preferences. It also allows you to begin communicating with potential roommates without releasing personal information. CraigsList is a popular alternative, but Roommates.com seems to have more features, particularly if you’re willing to pay a nominal membership fee.
DON’T: Sign a lease without first seeing the apartment. I was very lucky to find a cute, three-story townhouse in which my roommates and I rent the top floor. It’s clean, spacious, and most importantly, safe. But I have also seen some incredibly small, run-down apartments that are way overpriced. It also seems that my rat fears may not have been so far-fetched after all. Be careful!
DO: Live with roommates when you’re new to the City. I know this isn’t for everyone, but it really helped me as I was learning the subway system, looking for the rare “cheap” (or at least affordable) place to eat, meeting people, etc. This was especially true for me because I work for a small company and most of my colleagues are significantly older. It was nice to have roommates who were willing to let me tag along.
DON’T: Move in with people you haven’t met. Again, I was very lucky, but after conducting interviews to replace one of my roommates last summer, I can say first hand that there are a lot of crazy people out there who aren’t necessarily going to answer questions as truthfully as my roommates did. Furthermore, I really didn’t ask enough questions. Think about how schedules will coordinate: Will you be able to get enough sleep to do your job effectively? Will you ever see them? Are you looking for a best friend or a roommate? Also talk about your feelings regarding drinking, smoking, having friends over, having dates spend the night, keeping the place clean, etc. All of this is, of course, in addition to being clear about the rent and what “extras” you may be asked to chip in on (e.g. electric, gas, water, cable, internet, food).
DO: Consider a variety of neighborhoods and think about what’s most important. If you really want to be close to the best bars and restaurants, The Village may be your scene, but rent is high for small spaces. Living in Queens, Connecticut, or New Jersey may be cheaper and allow you to have a car if that’s important to you, but are you willing to spend that much time on the train after a long day’s work? Are you going to be happy spending your time in New York living outside the city? Balance apartment costs, commute, and neighborhood attributes to get the best total package.
DON’T: Blow your whole budget on your apartment. New York housing is expensive; there’s really no way to get around it, and you should have a place that you can truly come home to. That said, it’s been my experience that most New Yorkers spend very little time at home. If you’re moving here, it’s most likely to take advantage of all the opportunities (theatre, concerts, shopping, dining, cocktail hours) the city has to offer. Be sure to leave room in your budget to actually do these things or be prepared to spend a lot of nights at home in your beautiful apartment.
DO: Limit your first lease to six months—or a year at the most. Inevitably, your priority equation will change as you settle into the city, make friends and find your scene. Be sure you have the opportunity to change your living accommodations if and when you need to.
I also encourage new roommates to make themselves at home. Make your own space in common rooms. Ask questions if you’re not sure how bills are handled, if certain items are shared (laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, milk, eggs, etc), or if you’re responsible for household chores. I’ve found it’s much easier to discuss these things upfront than to wait until everyone is frustrated with the current circumstances (read: one roommate feeling that she “always” had to take out the trash while another was “always” cleaning the bathroom).
Living with people is hard—there’s no doubt about it. Know that there will be ugly days, remember you’re not always the easiest person to live with either, and try to have other friends for when things get stressful around the house. Also remember that there are many advantages to having roommates, and the good times (in most circumstances) are right around the corner.
Careers
I’ve always been a workaholic. I really can’t blame that on my migration to NYC, but I can say that, on the whole, New Yorkers seem much more driven by their careers, and the environment is competitive.
I’ve always admired those people who dare to follow their dreams by traveling to a new city even before they’ve secured a job, but for me the right choice was definitely finding the job first, moving here, and starting two days later. Why?
First, New York is expensive. You have to have a job (or a sizable trust fund) to live here, and even the waiter/waitress jobs are competitive. Also, it took me a while to get realistic about the jobs I should be pursuing. It was nice to do that while living at home and to have a bit of a break between college and the “real world”.
Additionally, securing a job prior to the move gave me something to leap into as soon as I arrived. New York can be an overwhelming place, and working full-time provided not only structure, but also a place to begin building a social and professional network.
Of course, that beckons the question: “How do you find a job in NYC if you’re living in another city?” Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. There are general Web sites (e.g. Monster) that may help as well as some sector-specific sites for NYC jobs (Playbill.com and New York Federation for the Arts in the arts community, for example), but a lot of it comes down to who you know. That’s certainly where I would—and did—begin. Speak with professors, alumni, family friends, and anyone else you know (or have even heard about). Don’t limit yourself to only people in your chosen city or career. Remember there are six degrees of separation. After that, it’s really a matter of the time and effort you put into the search and how much you’re willing to put yourself out there. Also, remember to keep an open mind; I never thought I would work in the financial sector, but I truly love my job.
After you get to the city, I strongly encourage getting involved in a variety of activities (the local chapter of the OU alumni association, professional groups, volunteer opportunities, etc) to meet people, network and begin to position yourself for your next career move. A professor told me that no one sleeps in New York—that I should try to get involved in at least three different activities that appeal to diverse interests. This is really valuable advice.
Perhaps the best news is that you don’t have to make a long-term commitment to get involved in the community. Through New York Cares you can volunteer in a variety of activities—one event at a time.
Transportation
My job interview was my first time flying solo, but that wasn’t the part that scared me. No, I was terrified by the cab ride from the airport to my hotel. I can now officially say that I was scammed. I allowed myself to be pulled in by the driver of one of the black “gypsy cabs” and probably paid twice as much as I should have, even though I was sharing a cab with two total strangers. For reference:
1) Gypsy cabs are unmarked black cars that typically allow you to negotiate the fare. They are not regulated, however, so there’s no guaranty of safety (particularly for a tourist traveling alone) or of a fair price. I always wait for the yellow cab.
2) All yellow cabs are licensed and must give you the standard rate. On a recent visit, my parents were quoted a rate $20 higher by the gypsy cab driver. When they responded with the fare I had estimated, the driver immediately pointed to the line for yellow cabs. Learn from this example; tourists are easy prey for opportunistic drivers.
3) Know that you are responsible for all tolls incurred during the trip.
4) Always tip the driver.
After surviving my first cab ride, I absolutely refused to test my luck on the subways. I remember asking someone how their feet survived this city and being assured I’d grow accustomed to it. Some people do, in fact, wear tennis shoes to and from the office, and nearly every woman I know complains how hard the sidewalks are on her shoes, but you do get used to it. Now, if it’s less than twenty blocks, I walk. I always have an umbrella in my purse.
I’ve also learned that New York subways are really very easy to navigate. Stored-value “Metrocards” can be purchased at ticket windows or at machines (you can even use a debit card) at nearly every stop. Rides are $2, no matter how far you travel or how many transfers you make between lines. You can also buy cards that entitle you to unlimited rides for 3, 7 or 30 days. If you’re commuting to work every day, you’re foolish not to get a 30-day card; if you do nothing but go back and forth to work, you’ll redeem the full value with all other outings “free”.
It’s highly advisable to keep a subway map handy in those initial months, but it really doesn’t take long to learn the basics. Just be sure you’re headed in the right direction (check before you cross through the turnstile because you can’t always change mid-course) and remember that, while lines of the same colors may run along the same tracks in Manhattan, they diverge as you enter The Bronx or Brooklyn. Ultimately, my best lesson was not to be afraid to ask for directions. Most people who have mastered the subway are proud of their acquired knowledge and love to show off!
The last piece of my transportation puzzle was the bus system. I had a rather unfortunate bus experience in Columbus, Ohio, and assumed that New York buses would be just as—if not more—confusing. To my surprise, most buses just run straight up and down the avenues with cross-town buses at regular intervals. Metrocards work here, too, or you need $2 in change (no bills).
For a copy of the subway map or a bus schedule, visit the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) Web site. Additionally, HopStop.com is MapQuest for the NY bus and subway system. Simply type where you are and where you’re going, and it will give you the fastest route or the route with the least stops—you choose.
Fun and Excitement
I would never venture to personally recommend restaurants, bars, or shopping venues, but I will offer two helpful sources. Zagats is the authority for New York restaurants. CitySearch will help you locate almost anything you need.
Most of Manhattan is a grid. Avenues run north and south with First Avenue on the far east side. Streets cut across the island with the lowest numbers toward the south. It’s not a perfect grid, but it’s still good to get in the habit of verifying cross streets at all times (that’s what the cab drivers will be looking for, too).
Only tourists refer to the “Avenue of the Americas”; it’s simply Sixth Avenue to New Yorkers. Additionally, Houston Street is not pronounced like the city in Texas; it’s HOW-ston. Confusing either could make you easy prey to greedy cab drivers.
If you’re an art lover and plan to visit museums regularly, you can actually save money by getting an annual membership that allows unlimited visits. Also be aware that the MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) is free on Friday nights, and the Guggenheim offers reduced admission prices. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is always a “recommended donation,” though most people do pay.
If you just want a closer view of the Statue of Liberty and don’t need to walk around the island or tour the immigration museum on nearby Ellis Island, you can take the Staten Island Ferry for free.
Half-priced theatre tickets are available from the TKTS booths in Times Square and South Street Seaport. Tickets are only available on the day of the performance, so lines are generally long but move reasonably quickly. Many of the most popular shows also have daily raffles for a limited quantity of discounted tickets (generally $20 each) about an hour before the house opens. Check the show’s Web site for details; you can find them all listed on Playbill.com.
I’m sure there are a million other hints I could share, but part of the experience is simply to try new things and learn as you go. And so I bring this column (turned novel) to a close by encouraging any and all to come to New York and to take advantage of every opportunity the Big Apple has to offer. It truly is a city like no other.
Shannon Stucky (BSJ 2003) is an Account Manager with The Torrenzano Group in New York City. Shannon can be reached at sstucky@gmail.com.
URLS for hot links highlighted in the article:
Roommates.com: www.roommates.com
CraigsList: http://newyork.craigslist.org/
Monster: http://www.monster.com/
Playbill.com: http://www.playbill.com/index.php
NYFA: http://www.nyfa.org/level1.asp?id=1
Alumni Association: http://www.ealumni.ohiou.edu/NewHomepages/NY-NJ-CT/
New York Cares: http://www.nycares.org/
MTA: http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/
HopStop: http://hopstop.com/?city=newyork
Zagats: http://www.zagat.com/
CitySearch: http://newyork.citysearch.com/
MoMA: http://www.moma.org/
The Guggenheim: http://www.guggenheim.org/new_york_index.shtml
The Met: http://www.metmuseum.org/
Staten Island Ferry: http://www.ny.com/cgibin/frame.cgi?url=http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/dot/html/get_around/ferry/statfery.html&frame=/frame/travel.html
TKTS: http://www.tdf.org/tkts/
Playbill.com: http://www.playbill.com/index.php
by Shannon Stucky
In thinking about this column and what pearls of wisdom I may have to share, two things strike me as rather ironic. First, working with native New Yorkers, I typically think of myself as somewhat of a novice in the ways of New York life. Second, I often think of my life as fairly mundane. After all, I still spend the majority of my time at work. There’s still laundry to be done, an apartment to be cleaned, and dishes to be washed.
But then there are those moments: I meticulously position myself in the Subway, so I’ll arrive directly in front of the exit at my next stop. I choose the perfect restaurant for an out-of-town guest. I look down at my feet and realize I’ve adopted the requisite black boots. It’s at these moments that I think perhaps I have learned a thing or two. And so I write—the Ohio girl I’ll always be masquerading as a resident of New York (not quite a New Yorker).
Housing
Sitting in the back of the family conversion van, wedged between suitcases packed with new business suits, old college textbooks and a few odd pots and pans, I navigated the streets of what I now know to be Spanish Harlem alternately admiring the cute little neighborhood and praying that the building in front of me wasn’t my new apartment. The fact was I had no idea where I was going, but wherever I landed, there was a six-month lease and two new roommates waiting for me.
In the midst of the holiday rush, my apartment search seemed adequate. I profiled potential roommates on Roommates.com, spoke with one of the new roomies and my predecessor on the phone, and mailed my check to the landlord. I knew three basic truths:
1) Roommates.com had worked well for a friend, who relocated to DC.
2) My commute would be easy (one train that stopped a block from the apartment).
3) My friends would be welcomed in the new place.
At the time, that seemed good enough, but when I actually left home, I wasn’t quite so sure. What if it was all a scam, and I had just thrown my first month’s rent (plus deposit) down the drain? What if the apartment was infested with rats? What if these roommates were just better at hiding their craziness than the others already discarded from my list of possibilities?
I’m happy to report that none of these fears became a reality, but after living in the city for two years, I would add a few do’s and don’ts based on my own experience:
DO: Consider a roommate location service. Roommates.com is a great place to find apartments—it’s basically a dating service for roommates, which allows you to narrow your list of potential apartments based on everything from gender, age and sexual orientation to neighborhood and smoking preferences. It also allows you to begin communicating with potential roommates without releasing personal information. CraigsList is a popular alternative, but Roommates.com seems to have more features, particularly if you’re willing to pay a nominal membership fee.
DON’T: Sign a lease without first seeing the apartment. I was very lucky to find a cute, three-story townhouse in which my roommates and I rent the top floor. It’s clean, spacious, and most importantly, safe. But I have also seen some incredibly small, run-down apartments that are way overpriced. It also seems that my rat fears may not have been so far-fetched after all. Be careful!
DO: Live with roommates when you’re new to the City. I know this isn’t for everyone, but it really helped me as I was learning the subway system, looking for the rare “cheap” (or at least affordable) place to eat, meeting people, etc. This was especially true for me because I work for a small company and most of my colleagues are significantly older. It was nice to have roommates who were willing to let me tag along.
DON’T: Move in with people you haven’t met. Again, I was very lucky, but after conducting interviews to replace one of my roommates last summer, I can say first hand that there are a lot of crazy people out there who aren’t necessarily going to answer questions as truthfully as my roommates did. Furthermore, I really didn’t ask enough questions. Think about how schedules will coordinate: Will you be able to get enough sleep to do your job effectively? Will you ever see them? Are you looking for a best friend or a roommate? Also talk about your feelings regarding drinking, smoking, having friends over, having dates spend the night, keeping the place clean, etc. All of this is, of course, in addition to being clear about the rent and what “extras” you may be asked to chip in on (e.g. electric, gas, water, cable, internet, food).
DO: Consider a variety of neighborhoods and think about what’s most important. If you really want to be close to the best bars and restaurants, The Village may be your scene, but rent is high for small spaces. Living in Queens, Connecticut, or New Jersey may be cheaper and allow you to have a car if that’s important to you, but are you willing to spend that much time on the train after a long day’s work? Are you going to be happy spending your time in New York living outside the city? Balance apartment costs, commute, and neighborhood attributes to get the best total package.
DON’T: Blow your whole budget on your apartment. New York housing is expensive; there’s really no way to get around it, and you should have a place that you can truly come home to. That said, it’s been my experience that most New Yorkers spend very little time at home. If you’re moving here, it’s most likely to take advantage of all the opportunities (theatre, concerts, shopping, dining, cocktail hours) the city has to offer. Be sure to leave room in your budget to actually do these things or be prepared to spend a lot of nights at home in your beautiful apartment.
DO: Limit your first lease to six months—or a year at the most. Inevitably, your priority equation will change as you settle into the city, make friends and find your scene. Be sure you have the opportunity to change your living accommodations if and when you need to.
I also encourage new roommates to make themselves at home. Make your own space in common rooms. Ask questions if you’re not sure how bills are handled, if certain items are shared (laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, milk, eggs, etc), or if you’re responsible for household chores. I’ve found it’s much easier to discuss these things upfront than to wait until everyone is frustrated with the current circumstances (read: one roommate feeling that she “always” had to take out the trash while another was “always” cleaning the bathroom).
Living with people is hard—there’s no doubt about it. Know that there will be ugly days, remember you’re not always the easiest person to live with either, and try to have other friends for when things get stressful around the house. Also remember that there are many advantages to having roommates, and the good times (in most circumstances) are right around the corner.
Careers
I’ve always been a workaholic. I really can’t blame that on my migration to NYC, but I can say that, on the whole, New Yorkers seem much more driven by their careers, and the environment is competitive.
I’ve always admired those people who dare to follow their dreams by traveling to a new city even before they’ve secured a job, but for me the right choice was definitely finding the job first, moving here, and starting two days later. Why?
First, New York is expensive. You have to have a job (or a sizable trust fund) to live here, and even the waiter/waitress jobs are competitive. Also, it took me a while to get realistic about the jobs I should be pursuing. It was nice to do that while living at home and to have a bit of a break between college and the “real world”.
Additionally, securing a job prior to the move gave me something to leap into as soon as I arrived. New York can be an overwhelming place, and working full-time provided not only structure, but also a place to begin building a social and professional network.
Of course, that beckons the question: “How do you find a job in NYC if you’re living in another city?” Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. There are general Web sites (e.g. Monster) that may help as well as some sector-specific sites for NYC jobs (Playbill.com and New York Federation for the Arts in the arts community, for example), but a lot of it comes down to who you know. That’s certainly where I would—and did—begin. Speak with professors, alumni, family friends, and anyone else you know (or have even heard about). Don’t limit yourself to only people in your chosen city or career. Remember there are six degrees of separation. After that, it’s really a matter of the time and effort you put into the search and how much you’re willing to put yourself out there. Also, remember to keep an open mind; I never thought I would work in the financial sector, but I truly love my job.
After you get to the city, I strongly encourage getting involved in a variety of activities (the local chapter of the OU alumni association, professional groups, volunteer opportunities, etc) to meet people, network and begin to position yourself for your next career move. A professor told me that no one sleeps in New York—that I should try to get involved in at least three different activities that appeal to diverse interests. This is really valuable advice.
Perhaps the best news is that you don’t have to make a long-term commitment to get involved in the community. Through New York Cares you can volunteer in a variety of activities—one event at a time.
Transportation
My job interview was my first time flying solo, but that wasn’t the part that scared me. No, I was terrified by the cab ride from the airport to my hotel. I can now officially say that I was scammed. I allowed myself to be pulled in by the driver of one of the black “gypsy cabs” and probably paid twice as much as I should have, even though I was sharing a cab with two total strangers. For reference:
1) Gypsy cabs are unmarked black cars that typically allow you to negotiate the fare. They are not regulated, however, so there’s no guaranty of safety (particularly for a tourist traveling alone) or of a fair price. I always wait for the yellow cab.
2) All yellow cabs are licensed and must give you the standard rate. On a recent visit, my parents were quoted a rate $20 higher by the gypsy cab driver. When they responded with the fare I had estimated, the driver immediately pointed to the line for yellow cabs. Learn from this example; tourists are easy prey for opportunistic drivers.
3) Know that you are responsible for all tolls incurred during the trip.
4) Always tip the driver.
After surviving my first cab ride, I absolutely refused to test my luck on the subways. I remember asking someone how their feet survived this city and being assured I’d grow accustomed to it. Some people do, in fact, wear tennis shoes to and from the office, and nearly every woman I know complains how hard the sidewalks are on her shoes, but you do get used to it. Now, if it’s less than twenty blocks, I walk. I always have an umbrella in my purse.
I’ve also learned that New York subways are really very easy to navigate. Stored-value “Metrocards” can be purchased at ticket windows or at machines (you can even use a debit card) at nearly every stop. Rides are $2, no matter how far you travel or how many transfers you make between lines. You can also buy cards that entitle you to unlimited rides for 3, 7 or 30 days. If you’re commuting to work every day, you’re foolish not to get a 30-day card; if you do nothing but go back and forth to work, you’ll redeem the full value with all other outings “free”.
It’s highly advisable to keep a subway map handy in those initial months, but it really doesn’t take long to learn the basics. Just be sure you’re headed in the right direction (check before you cross through the turnstile because you can’t always change mid-course) and remember that, while lines of the same colors may run along the same tracks in Manhattan, they diverge as you enter The Bronx or Brooklyn. Ultimately, my best lesson was not to be afraid to ask for directions. Most people who have mastered the subway are proud of their acquired knowledge and love to show off!
The last piece of my transportation puzzle was the bus system. I had a rather unfortunate bus experience in Columbus, Ohio, and assumed that New York buses would be just as—if not more—confusing. To my surprise, most buses just run straight up and down the avenues with cross-town buses at regular intervals. Metrocards work here, too, or you need $2 in change (no bills).
For a copy of the subway map or a bus schedule, visit the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) Web site. Additionally, HopStop.com is MapQuest for the NY bus and subway system. Simply type where you are and where you’re going, and it will give you the fastest route or the route with the least stops—you choose.
Fun and Excitement
I would never venture to personally recommend restaurants, bars, or shopping venues, but I will offer two helpful sources. Zagats is the authority for New York restaurants. CitySearch will help you locate almost anything you need.
Most of Manhattan is a grid. Avenues run north and south with First Avenue on the far east side. Streets cut across the island with the lowest numbers toward the south. It’s not a perfect grid, but it’s still good to get in the habit of verifying cross streets at all times (that’s what the cab drivers will be looking for, too).
Only tourists refer to the “Avenue of the Americas”; it’s simply Sixth Avenue to New Yorkers. Additionally, Houston Street is not pronounced like the city in Texas; it’s HOW-ston. Confusing either could make you easy prey to greedy cab drivers.
If you’re an art lover and plan to visit museums regularly, you can actually save money by getting an annual membership that allows unlimited visits. Also be aware that the MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) is free on Friday nights, and the Guggenheim offers reduced admission prices. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is always a “recommended donation,” though most people do pay.
If you just want a closer view of the Statue of Liberty and don’t need to walk around the island or tour the immigration museum on nearby Ellis Island, you can take the Staten Island Ferry for free.
Half-priced theatre tickets are available from the TKTS booths in Times Square and South Street Seaport. Tickets are only available on the day of the performance, so lines are generally long but move reasonably quickly. Many of the most popular shows also have daily raffles for a limited quantity of discounted tickets (generally $20 each) about an hour before the house opens. Check the show’s Web site for details; you can find them all listed on Playbill.com.
I’m sure there are a million other hints I could share, but part of the experience is simply to try new things and learn as you go. And so I bring this column (turned novel) to a close by encouraging any and all to come to New York and to take advantage of every opportunity the Big Apple has to offer. It truly is a city like no other.
Shannon Stucky (BSJ 2003) is an Account Manager with The Torrenzano Group in New York City. Shannon can be reached at sstucky@gmail.com.
URLS for hot links highlighted in the article:
Roommates.com: www.roommates.com
CraigsList: http://newyork.craigslist.org/
Monster: http://www.monster.com/
Playbill.com: http://www.playbill.com/index.php
NYFA: http://www.nyfa.org/level1.asp?id=1
Alumni Association: http://www.ealumni.ohiou.edu/NewHomepages/NY-NJ-CT/
New York Cares: http://www.nycares.org/
MTA: http://www.mta.nyc.ny.us/
HopStop: http://hopstop.com/?city=newyork
Zagats: http://www.zagat.com/
CitySearch: http://newyork.citysearch.com/
MoMA: http://www.moma.org/
The Guggenheim: http://www.guggenheim.org/new_york_index.shtml
The Met: http://www.metmuseum.org/
Staten Island Ferry: http://www.ny.com/cgibin/frame.cgi?url=http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/dot/html/get_around/ferry/statfery.html&frame=/frame/travel.html
TKTS: http://www.tdf.org/tkts/
Playbill.com: http://www.playbill.com/index.php
More than a Salary: How to Select and Make the Most of Your Benefits
More than a Salary: How to Select and Make the Most of Your Benefits
By Jennifer Polanz
Coming out of college and landing a first job is difficult. What’s even more difficult sometimes is to hear your first salary offer and wonder if you should have taken that advice about checking out medical school.
But a job is by no means defined by the paycheck, a fact that is not often realized right away. There are other aspects of the job to consider that could increase the attractiveness of an initially shaky offer. In fact, according to a new study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, employers continue to spend more on benefits, with more than 44 percent of payroll expenses in 2005 going to employee benefits. That’s a 4 percent rise from the previous year, according to the study.
Health And Retirement
Two of the most common aspects of a benefits package are health insurance and retirement investments, either in the form of a pension or 401(k).
There is one thing a news reporter learns relatively quickly – tragedy can strike anyone, anywhere. As a general assignment reporter, you spend quite a bit of your day talking to people about mysterious illnesses, tragic car accidents and other bizarre accidents. It’s enough to make you want to have the top-of-the-line health insurance – just in case.
And while retirement may not be a major issue at the moment, financial planners have said the sooner contributions begin to a retirement plan, the better. It’s much easier to save a little at a time for a much longer period of time versus tuck away significant amounts of money quickly.
However, a BusinessWeek story written by Liz Ryan, she makes an interesting point by encouraging new recruits to look at what they’ll need to survive now versus down the road. Someone just out of college, for example, might not be interested in a company offering longer-term benefits like a profit-sharing plan that takes years in which to be vested, or a long-term life insurance plan. Instead, for the first job, he or she might want to look for a company that offers benefits that pay off in the short term. (http://www.businessweek.com/careers/content/aug2005/ca20050818_6715_ca030.htm?chan=search )
Additional Compensation
Some companies offer multiple types of extra payment, in the form of bonuses, profit-sharing, commissions, stock options, etc., depending on the type of work you choose. Know these up front, and to how much they will equate when it’s all said and done. Sometimes these can be negotiated before the final offer is made. Many times companies will figure these extras into your estimated annual salary in your final offer.
Flexibility
So you’ve got the health insurance, the retirement plan and additional compensation in the package. What else should you look for? Depending on your needs, flexibility in schedule can be an issue. Is the employer requiring 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours with a half hour or hour lunch, no exceptions? Or are they willing to bend with “flex” hours – 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., or 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., for example.
In the news world, hours revolve around when news happens. Are you willing to come in at 8 a.m., leave at noon and return at 6 p.m. for a night event? It’s important to know upfront, too, whether the company will compensate you for overtime or allow you to take comp time to make up for extra hours.
Another example is Best Buy, which recently implemented a policy called ROWE, or results-only work environment. It sets individual goals for employees, and when they meet those goals on any given day, they are free to leave. They can work whenever they need to work to meet those goals, which allow flexibility for other personal activities. (http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_50/b4013001.htm)
Also, some companies require an employee to be “on call” at all times. This can mean carrying a pager, cell phone or Blackberry-type device around for days to weeks at a time. Finding this out upfront, as well as what the compensation is for carrying said device, will save a lot of frustration.
One other thing to consider is telecommuting. Some companies now allow employees to work some days from home, while others see employees in the office as a community-building initiative. Know beforehand what you have in mind and make sure it fits the philosophy of the company.
Vacation Days
That brings up another important benefit – paid time off. The major difference among companies is how much time off they offer, in what form they offer it and when you can begin to take it.
For example, some companies offer two weeks, or 10 days vacation. Others start off with one week and go up to two after the first year. Yet others give you a certain amount, but only after you’ve worked there for three months. Some companies don’t give up those first precious vacation days until after a year.
Also, some companies have switched over to PTO days, which are Paid Time Off and tend to be more flexible than straight vacation days. That can also mean they offer additional PTO days, but no sick days. Other companies offer a mixture of PTO, vacation and sick days.
One final note to consider on this front is if vacation days, PTO and/or sick days can be carried over from one year to the next. It can be a terrible feeling to realize your company won’t let you carry over the eight PTO days you so carefully hoarded during the year while planning for that vacation in the next fiscal year.
Once again, for vacation, PTO and sick days, it’s important to know upfront what the mix is, how you can take them and when you can first start taking them before you agree to the job.
Parking
Don’t laugh. Some employers in big cities don’t compensate for parking or transportation fees, which can become quite costly and override any additional money or benefits. Check to see if parking is included in the benefits package, or if there are other options. You may want to make the sacrifice to work in a certain city, but it’s wise to know additional costs you’ll be incurring upfront. Also along these lines are relocation benefits. Some companies will pay your cost of moving to a new city, as well as the cost of staying in a hotel until you can find lodging, etc. These types of benefits generally are negotiated upfront, so don’t expect them upon acceptance of the offer.
Paid Holidays
Another one not to be snickered at, especially if you decide to work in the wonderful world of news. Find out beforehand what’s expected of you on holidays. Many smaller news outlets pick holiday coverage based on seniority – and they don’t give the assignments to the senior reporters. They give them to the one that walked in the door last. So ask your potential employer the rules for holiday time – including if you get comp time, double time or any such reward for reporting on, say, Thanksgiving Day.
Iffy Benefits
There are certain benefits offered by companies that could be considered superfluous or fluffy, depending on what you’re looking for. In researching this story, I found one company that offered monthly peanut butter and jelly sandwich days, in which 25 to 30 varieties of peanut butter and jelly were brought in, along with 12 different types of bread. (http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2006/05/08/smallb1.html )
Now, some people may love that as a benefit, but I wouldn’t make a decision on a job offer based on peanut butter and jelly day.
However, other benefits may or may not float your boat. Some include tuition reimbursement; gym or health facility memberships or access; in-office child care; frequent field trips and outings; massages; pets in the office; free lunches or dinners; dry-cleaning services; birthdays off and nap times, among others.
Jennifer Polanz is a freelance writer in Mentor, Ohio. She is a 1998 graduate of Scripps' Graduate Program.
By Jennifer Polanz
Coming out of college and landing a first job is difficult. What’s even more difficult sometimes is to hear your first salary offer and wonder if you should have taken that advice about checking out medical school.
But a job is by no means defined by the paycheck, a fact that is not often realized right away. There are other aspects of the job to consider that could increase the attractiveness of an initially shaky offer. In fact, according to a new study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, employers continue to spend more on benefits, with more than 44 percent of payroll expenses in 2005 going to employee benefits. That’s a 4 percent rise from the previous year, according to the study.
Health And Retirement
Two of the most common aspects of a benefits package are health insurance and retirement investments, either in the form of a pension or 401(k).
There is one thing a news reporter learns relatively quickly – tragedy can strike anyone, anywhere. As a general assignment reporter, you spend quite a bit of your day talking to people about mysterious illnesses, tragic car accidents and other bizarre accidents. It’s enough to make you want to have the top-of-the-line health insurance – just in case.
And while retirement may not be a major issue at the moment, financial planners have said the sooner contributions begin to a retirement plan, the better. It’s much easier to save a little at a time for a much longer period of time versus tuck away significant amounts of money quickly.
However, a BusinessWeek story written by Liz Ryan, she makes an interesting point by encouraging new recruits to look at what they’ll need to survive now versus down the road. Someone just out of college, for example, might not be interested in a company offering longer-term benefits like a profit-sharing plan that takes years in which to be vested, or a long-term life insurance plan. Instead, for the first job, he or she might want to look for a company that offers benefits that pay off in the short term. (http://www.businessweek.com/careers/content/aug2005/ca20050818_6715_ca030.htm?chan=search )
Additional Compensation
Some companies offer multiple types of extra payment, in the form of bonuses, profit-sharing, commissions, stock options, etc., depending on the type of work you choose. Know these up front, and to how much they will equate when it’s all said and done. Sometimes these can be negotiated before the final offer is made. Many times companies will figure these extras into your estimated annual salary in your final offer.
Flexibility
So you’ve got the health insurance, the retirement plan and additional compensation in the package. What else should you look for? Depending on your needs, flexibility in schedule can be an issue. Is the employer requiring 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours with a half hour or hour lunch, no exceptions? Or are they willing to bend with “flex” hours – 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., or 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., for example.
In the news world, hours revolve around when news happens. Are you willing to come in at 8 a.m., leave at noon and return at 6 p.m. for a night event? It’s important to know upfront, too, whether the company will compensate you for overtime or allow you to take comp time to make up for extra hours.
Another example is Best Buy, which recently implemented a policy called ROWE, or results-only work environment. It sets individual goals for employees, and when they meet those goals on any given day, they are free to leave. They can work whenever they need to work to meet those goals, which allow flexibility for other personal activities. (http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_50/b4013001.htm)
Also, some companies require an employee to be “on call” at all times. This can mean carrying a pager, cell phone or Blackberry-type device around for days to weeks at a time. Finding this out upfront, as well as what the compensation is for carrying said device, will save a lot of frustration.
One other thing to consider is telecommuting. Some companies now allow employees to work some days from home, while others see employees in the office as a community-building initiative. Know beforehand what you have in mind and make sure it fits the philosophy of the company.
Vacation Days
That brings up another important benefit – paid time off. The major difference among companies is how much time off they offer, in what form they offer it and when you can begin to take it.
For example, some companies offer two weeks, or 10 days vacation. Others start off with one week and go up to two after the first year. Yet others give you a certain amount, but only after you’ve worked there for three months. Some companies don’t give up those first precious vacation days until after a year.
Also, some companies have switched over to PTO days, which are Paid Time Off and tend to be more flexible than straight vacation days. That can also mean they offer additional PTO days, but no sick days. Other companies offer a mixture of PTO, vacation and sick days.
One final note to consider on this front is if vacation days, PTO and/or sick days can be carried over from one year to the next. It can be a terrible feeling to realize your company won’t let you carry over the eight PTO days you so carefully hoarded during the year while planning for that vacation in the next fiscal year.
Once again, for vacation, PTO and sick days, it’s important to know upfront what the mix is, how you can take them and when you can first start taking them before you agree to the job.
Parking
Don’t laugh. Some employers in big cities don’t compensate for parking or transportation fees, which can become quite costly and override any additional money or benefits. Check to see if parking is included in the benefits package, or if there are other options. You may want to make the sacrifice to work in a certain city, but it’s wise to know additional costs you’ll be incurring upfront. Also along these lines are relocation benefits. Some companies will pay your cost of moving to a new city, as well as the cost of staying in a hotel until you can find lodging, etc. These types of benefits generally are negotiated upfront, so don’t expect them upon acceptance of the offer.
Paid Holidays
Another one not to be snickered at, especially if you decide to work in the wonderful world of news. Find out beforehand what’s expected of you on holidays. Many smaller news outlets pick holiday coverage based on seniority – and they don’t give the assignments to the senior reporters. They give them to the one that walked in the door last. So ask your potential employer the rules for holiday time – including if you get comp time, double time or any such reward for reporting on, say, Thanksgiving Day.
Iffy Benefits
There are certain benefits offered by companies that could be considered superfluous or fluffy, depending on what you’re looking for. In researching this story, I found one company that offered monthly peanut butter and jelly sandwich days, in which 25 to 30 varieties of peanut butter and jelly were brought in, along with 12 different types of bread. (http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2006/05/08/smallb1.html )
Now, some people may love that as a benefit, but I wouldn’t make a decision on a job offer based on peanut butter and jelly day.
However, other benefits may or may not float your boat. Some include tuition reimbursement; gym or health facility memberships or access; in-office child care; frequent field trips and outings; massages; pets in the office; free lunches or dinners; dry-cleaning services; birthdays off and nap times, among others.
Jennifer Polanz is a freelance writer in Mentor, Ohio. She is a 1998 graduate of Scripps' Graduate Program.
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