When it comes to building your resume, your portfolio, or your career, you encounter a lot of opportunities that do not seem worth it or perhaps even insignificant at a glance.

A lot of these opportunities that seem below us are the very ones that can shape and build up our skills. Reflecting on my own journey, I have found that taking a chance on these opportunities that do not obviously align with my future career aspirations have created a profound impact on me, especially when it comes to team building and communication.

Almost everyone starts their professional journey with a first job that does not align with their long-term career goals. However, I found myself among the minority who chose to stay at their first job. Working at Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, I discovered so many valuable skills that served as the foundation for my professional experience. Through dedication and perseverance, I progressed from an entry-level role to positions of greater responsibility, such as Team Lead and eventually Area Supervisor. These roles specifically afforded me the opportunity to understand the complexity of team management and collaborative teamwork. 

Moreover, my current role as a Career Ambassador at DeSales University has further enriched my professional journey. It has helped me realize the importance of self and career development as well as helped me to master the art of effective communication. Staying committed to my initial job not only provided me with practical experience but also served as a testament that every opportunity, regardless of its initial appearance, has the potential for professional growth. With all of these transferable skills, I am now very optimistic that I will be able to secure and excel at an internship that aligns more closely with my career goals.

It is really easy to overlook the potential growth you can get from these experiences, no matter how small. I think it is extremely important to recognize that building your skills and resume is not all about seeking out these grand opportunities. I urge you to seize every opportunity that comes your way because you never know the skills you are going to get out of it.