NHHI Spotlight – Tyler Claxton

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Tyler Claxton, and I was born and raised in New Haven, CT. Growing up, I played basketball and baseball and ran track & field. I attended James Hillhouse High School and later graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a degree in Communications and a minor in Journalism. My dream was to work for ESPN and cover basketball games just like one of my idols, Stephen A. Smith. I even interned at News 8 in the sports department, covering local games around the city. However, my first job out of college wasn’t in sports but in entertainment at Entercom Radio. I also worked as an AV technician at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. But my most fulfilling job would have to be when I taught second grade at Wintergreen Interdistrict Magnet School. Coming from my background, I never expected to fall in love with education like I did. Helping the next generation with their foundational studies was more gratifying than any other job I had till this point.

Tell us about your job search experience.

During my time job search, I had to be extremely patient. There was a point when I noticed that months had flown by, and I still didn’t find a job. I remember writing dozens of cover letters and resumes, but nothing materialized. Sometimes, I felt like giving up, but I did not, thanks to my New Haven Works job coach, who made sure I stayed the course and believed in me. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I am extremely grateful for that.

Tell us about your current roles at Yale.

Currently, I am a Classroom Technology and Media Specialist. In this position, I provide technical support to Yale faculty, staff, and students in classrooms, other teaching spaces, and media production areas. My day-to-day can be easy, and others can be very stressful, but to be honest, I love my job. To be successful in this role, you should have an affinity for technology, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional user experience. Thanks to my prior work experience as a waiter at Olive Garden and my brief stint at St. Vincent’s Medical Center as an AV technician, I can blend my customer service background with my tech knowledge to succeed at Yale.

What advice do you have for other job seekers?

My advice to job seekers is to always believe in yourself! There were many times when I wanted to give up, but If I did, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Always keep positive people around, especially those you want to see you win. If you can do that, then the sky is truly the limit!

What is next for you?

I still feel like I must prove myself and learn as much as possible about this role. I have never been complacent, but I honestly feel happy where I am today. Maybe in a few years, after I have accomplished everything I can in my role, I will try to move up in the AV Department. Currently, I am looking to buy my first home and will try to use the Homebuyers Program here at Yale.