Thanks to Crossroads Career leader John Freeze for interviewing his son, Ian, about the before and after story of changing college majors and careers. Instead of their journey being a war of wills, it became a lesson in prayer and spiritual growth for both father and son.
Before
John: Tell us about your decision to go to Culinary School?
Ian “It seemed like a great idea at the time. I enjoyed cooking and had fond memories of meals with family over the years. I felt that since I had taken culinary classes in high school, it would be an easy transition.”
John: Your experience?
Ian: “I met a lot of great people, and I learned a lot about myself in the process. I enjoyed it, but I realized it wasn’t something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It was a shock when I realized that it wasn’t what I wanted to do for a career. I had thought about this for about 5 years, thinking it was a great fit.”
John: Why change?
Ian: “My grades weren’t very good, and I realized I wasn’t doing well in areas that were important to be successful in the culinary field. It was stressful and upsetting to continue to put forth effort, knowing it wasn’t what I wanted to do long term.”
Crossroads Career workshop at church
Ian: “My eyes were opened to what I really was good at– visual arts and problem solving. After the workshop, I got coaching from ministry team members. I learned how to build a better resume, and I learned how Christians should conduct themselves in a job search.”
“I always knew prayer was important, but I never considered using prayer in relation to career decisions. I prayed for an opportunity to work for a Christian employer.”
After
Ian: “I decided to just ‘walk in’ to the local Chick-Fil-A. After three conversations with the owner, I was offered a job and still am working there today, as I continue my education.”
John: Your new career?
Ian: “I chose Interior Design.”
John: How is it going?
Ian: “Very well. I am in my fourth semester in an Interior Design program. I am an officer in the student chapter of a related club. School is going very well. I’m making very good grades. I enjoy school much more than before.”
John: What impact did this career change have on you?
Ian: “It’s made me feel a lot better about myself, knowing I’m where I’m supposed to be. I think the future looks very good for me. Long-term, I’d like to have my own firm or be a partner in a firm. I would love to have the opportunity one day to work on historical properties, churches or museums.
John: What has Crossroads Career meant to you?
Ian: “It was a confidence-building experience. I learned skills that I needed for the job search. The confidence and skills I received in a Christian context made me feel a lot better about choosing a career and finding a job.”
Help us help more people
We invite you to give by December 31 to sustain and grow this ministry. Please “like” and share social media posts you might see from us to expand their reach and impact!
If you would like give to the future and hope of Crossroads Career Network, you may make a donation online or mail a check to:
Crossroads Career Services, Inc.
C/O Greyrock Accounting
135 South Main Street, Suite 701
Greenville, SC 29601
Donations are tax-deductible. Crossroads Career Services, Inc. is a nonprofit IRS-approved 501c3 organization. Learn more about us. If you have any questions, email support@test.crossroadscareer.org.
