Professional Networking: Dinner with a Principal

A few months ago, I was blessed (I know, cliche, but it's how I feel) to go to a networking event: "Dinner with a Principal."

The evening was glorious. When we talked about business meals in class, I was concerned to hear that you need to make sure the food isn't a priority, but the people you're with need to have your focus and attention. I love food. I love eating it and I love taking it home in "doggie bags." Needless to say, I was concerned that this dinner would be difficult because I'd be worried about eating, but not eating too much, but not leaving completely starved and food-deprived.

Glory of all glories! It wasn't even an issue! I went to this dinner straight from work and was able to be seated right next to a truly wonderful Principal. I aspire to teach Middle School math, so I wanted to talk to a principal with experience in Middle School or High School so I could be better prepared for teaching. Rosanna had been a Middle School principal and was currently a High School principal. Best of both worlds! She was so nice and seemed interested in our future careers, but also willing to give us insights into how to prepare. I had tons of questions I wanted to ask her and suddenly, the food was on the back-burner. Not literally, we all did eat food and dessert. However, I found myself so enthralled in conversation that I actually found it a burden to break my attention from her to eat a few bites of food.

I learned many things to help prepare me for teaching. I learned that experience is good (no duh), but that principals look for more than just qualification in your subject. The first thing they look for is how well you did in student teaching (if you're a new teacher). The second thing is your interests and if you are willing to share your interests to contribute to the school. I've always been so concerned about work experience and education, I didn't even think about highlighting my interests and skills regarding sports, clubs and coaching. I'm SO glad I talked to her and learned so many things!

Also, I have even learned from this class and sent her a thank-you email. I hope to continue to have contact with her in the future as I continue to learn and move into my career.




*Note: even though this isn't a typical networking event, I talked to Professor Middleton and she said it could count because it was applicable to my major and about as network-y as it gets.

**Extra note: I met a lady this past weekend while with my cousins who is a principal in Davis county. After talking to her a bit, we talked about schools, jobs, charter schools, etc. and she gave me a business card. This networking thing sure comes in handy and makes me feel hopeful about my future. I'd say my favorite things I've taken from this class are resumes, interviewing skills and networking.