Please upgrade your web browser

These pages are built with modern web browsers in mind, and are not optimized for Internet Explorer 8 or below. Please try using another web browser, such as Internet Explorer 9, Internet Explorer 10, Internet Explorer 11, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Apple Safari.

I recently received my Bachelors in Kinesiology from Whitworth University and it hasn't helped me find a job, I don't really understand why?

Veteran

David Jackman Spokane, WA

I would like some advice regarding finding work after receiving my bachelors degree. I have not been able to keep a real job since I separated from the USAF.

27 February 2018 4 replies Career Exploration

Answers

Veteran

Michael Murray Saint Paul, MN

Have you looked into teaching? If you have any GI Bill get your teaching certs and apply at high schools as a health teacher. You'll probably require more education or training for any "real job", maybe a Physical therapist/rehab program. Good luck!

Advisor

julie scholl Parshall, CO

Advise you to get some management training.
Even if it just the free kind by way of library resources/online free or managing a small group of volunteers, sitting on a proper athletic/recreation board ...try to get specific management training for the athletic world side if possible.

Most 'athletic' careers/management also involve the hiring/training and all HR duties ...for the jobs that pay anything decent.
Prospective employers want to hire somebody with experience and a 'comfort' level in this role.
Sales experience come into play if you are wanting to be part of a fitness company which can be daunting.
Don't give up on your dream of trying to get into football specifically, it may not be the 'role' you want however, persistence and determination will pay off in the end. Continue to volunteer when you can for coaching at the high school level, as well as the higher levels at a local college perhaps, so they already know you (if and when a job becomes available)and how hard you work and if you smile!

Otherwise you can study some more to become a OT/PT and enter the healthcare side of things. This is a lot more training, and costs...but guaranteed employment.*** I always strongly advise anyone to get some 'real life' job experience BEFORE doing even more education.

Hope that helps.

Veteran

David Jackman Spokane, WA

I pursued this degree in order to coach football at some level. I know volunteering to gain experience is the path to follow in order to increases my chances in gaining employment as a coach. However, I was hoping I would be able to sneak into a position due to my previous work experience with the USAF and the years I spent on the field as a football player. Thank you for responding.

Advisor

Susana Moraga Hayward, CA

David,
Thank you for your service.
Why did you pursue this degree?
It's not the degree that gets you a job people pursue degrees for various reasons, because they need it for a particular job, because they have a job and just need a degree for upward mobility, or personal reasons.
I am guessing you had an idea of pursuing something in athletics given your background.
Looking at the jobs you are interested in, do you have the experience you need to be competitive? The degree allows you to compete but you have to make yourself competitive in the marketplace.
If you need more experience continue to volunteer. In this way you will be in the field and making connections with others in your field of interest. Many people start part-time in athletics. Do look at the resources on this site and do some informational interviews to better position yourself in moving forward.
Good luck,

Your Answer

Please log in to answer this question.

Sign Up

You can join as either a Veteran or an Advisor.

An Advisor already has a career, with or without military experience, and is willing to engage with and help veterans.
Sign Up as an Advisor.

A Veteran has military experience and is seeking a new career, or assistance with life after service.
Sign Up as a Veteran.