Business For All Majors Wednesday, April 22nd Justin Arce Assistant Branch Manager First Investors What is your education background? University of California, Irvine—Bachelor of Arts in Economics I also have my series 6, 63, 26, and 65 Licenses, along with CA State Department Health and Life License. What do you do at your current job? I service my book of clients that I’ve made in my 5 years at the company. In addition to providing them ongoing service in attaining their financial goals, I also help manage the office. Most of my time is focused on working with representatives/advisors who are in their first 2 years in the business. I help with training and facilitating what it takes to build a successful practice. What is your favorite thing about your job? I get to build personal relationships with my coworkers and clients. A word of advice: Don’t be afraid of the unknown. Everything you want is right outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to push yourself beyond what limitations you might have in your mind. Vahe Victor Grigorian Claims Representative Automobile Club of Southern California What is your education background? University of California, Irvine—Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics What do you do at your current job? I investigate claims to make a proper liability determination, interview all parties involved in an accident, review damage appraisals and police reports, negotiate and settle claims for damages owed, and settle claims within the regulations set for by the Department of Insurance. What is your favorite thing about your job? I enjoy helping people through a tough time. Accidents can be a traumatic experience and most people don’t know what to do. Guiding them through the process and putting their minds at ease is rewarding. A word of advice: Internships are the best way to get some experience on your resume and get an idea of what it is like to work at that company. Research the companies in the field you are interested in. - Is there a future? - Are there opportunities to move up? - Is the company financially sound? Business For All Majors Wednesday, April 22nd Dane Johnson Water Resources Planner Irvine Ranch Water District What is your education background? University of California, Los Angeles—Bachelor of Science in Biology University of California, Santa Barbara—Master of Science in Environmental Science & Management with a focus in Water Resources Management Palomar College—Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Santiago Canyon College—Various Water Utility Science Courses What do you do at your current job? My current job is focused on helping manage Irvine Ranch Water District’s (IRWD) water banking, transfers, and exchange programs. I work with other IRWD staff and partner agencies to help develop new wells and water storage infrastructure in Kern County in the Central Valley. In addition, I assist with developing agreements and partnerships with other California water agencies to ensure access to reliable water supplies. I also pay an important role in conducting reporting and data analysis to comply with Governor’s Brown emergency drought regulations and recent executive order, which mandates 25% statewide reductions in water use. What is your favorite thing about your job? The aspect I enjoy most about my job is the diverse nature of the work I do and the collaborative environment that IRWD promotes. I work with engineers, biologists, geologists, and legislative and executive staff on a daily basis. My coworkers are all experts in the water sector which affords me a front row seat on water issues affecting Southern California. A word of advice: My biggest piece of advice for current students is to focus heavily on extracurricular activities. Join career-specific clubs, get your feet wet with an internship (yes, even unpaid), and start building a professional network early! Go to trade or industry conferences and start meeting people. Having a solid network is indispensable for any aspiring professional—it helped me get where I am and it has helped many of my colleagues as well. Susan Strasshofer Senior Sales Manager Irvine Company What is your education background? University of California, Irvine—Bachelor of Arts in English What do you do at your current job? I manage sales for the region of Irvine. What is your favorite thing about your job? I manage a team, build the bench strength of the team, and bring exceptional results for the company. I also have the platform to positively impact the lives of internal and external customers. A word of advice: Find your passion because it will reflect in your work. State of mind is the most powerful tool and being positive will gain traction for continue positive results.