The Skidmore College Career Development Center believes that the principals of the Chaos Theory of Careers to be most applicable for liberal arts students in the current economic climate. In this model, career development is recognized as a dynamic system characterized by complexity, interconnectedness, and susceptibility to change.

The following is part of the CDC’s Encouraging Stories Series featuring members of the Class of 2009.  During the last major economic downturn, these individuals exhibited these characteristics as they navigated the early stages of their own careers.  Below are stories and advice in their own words.

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In what ways has your career path since Skidmore been non-linear? How did your Skidmore experience inform this path? 

I am a freelance writer who often works mostly remote and has many clients. While most people report to the office 9-5, I report to my home office desk and make my own hours. I love the freedom and having the chance to tackle multiple projects at once—sometimes I'm writing an article about wine, sometimes I'm writing micro UX copy for a healthcare app, and sometimes I'm writing marketing press releases for a makeup company. Having Skidmore College on your resume goes a long way—I've actually had people in interviews say to me "Wow, that's impressive" and "OK, you must be smart!"  

What kinds of knowledge or skills did you unexpectedly use to navigate a difficult economic period? 

As a contractor and freelancer, the thought of not having typical job security is not for everyone. You're always wondering "What's next?" when your contract is up. Thus, I always have a backup plan; even when I have a 40-hour a week client, I keep my other clients happy and do one-off articles on weekends. This way, I am constantly in their front-of-mind if they need some help. This has proved to be helpful during this pandemic, where everyone's job security is up in the air. Keeping my side hustle has saved me. Some clients are slashing budgets so I've been constantly reaching out to editors and clients I've worked with prior and going through my virtual rolodex. In this industry, you grow a thick skin and get used to the word "no," so I just keep trying.  

What insights or advice do you have for others with similar backgrounds, or pursuing a similar path? 

The great thing about being a professional at writing and editing is someone, somewhere is always going to want your input. Stories always must be told! If you decide to work full time as a writer somewhere, consider keeping your side hustle too—even if it's just one or two short projects a month. In times I have lost my full-time job, having a few clients I could reach out to and do one-off projects and articles for has saved me while I looked for more work. That said, don't bite off more than you can chew. I have made that mistake before, and it's very overwhelming. If you have too much work, be transparent with your clients and ask for a deadline that works with you UPFRONT (not after time has passed and your work is late). Trust they will appreciate your honesty. Don't fear rejection—that's part of the industry, and in some ways, it can be helpful if you use the feedback to move forward. Keep pitching and keep trying! Don't burn bridges!!! It's a smaller industry/world than you think... If you have the chance to go to a networking event or a publicist/client wants to meet for coffee, GO! Meeting people face-to-face shows you are putting in the effort and they will remember you down the road for opportunities. Also, always keep your resume, professional website/blog, and LinkedIn completely up to date. You never know when the perfect opportunity needs to be filled ASAP.

Have recruiters looking out for you as well—I personally work with at leastthree recruitersregularly.