January 17, 2025
Tell us about yourself.
Hi, I’m Adasia Beard, and I’m currently working as an administrative assistant at Yale University School of Management. I was born and mostly raised in New Haven, and I’ve been in this role for two years. I’m always looking for ways to develop my management skills and hope to take on more leadership roles in the future. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, participating in local community events, and spending time with my family and close friends. I’m also passionate about being a young African American woman entrepreneur from New Haven.
Tell us about your job search experience.
My job search experience was a journey of growth and persistence. I started looking for new opportunities because I wanted more responsibility and a position where I could make a bigger impact. I utilized online platforms, networking, and working with recruiters to find roles that matched my skills. The process wasn’t without challenges—there was a lot of competition, and I had to refine my resume and interviewing skills. However, I learned a great deal about what I want in my career, improved my personal branding, and ultimately secured a role that aligns perfectly with my goals.
I used a variety of strategies in my search, including online job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.), attending industry networking events, and connecting with a job counselor at New Haven Works, who helped me identify roles that matched my skills and experience. One of the main challenges I faced was the competitive nature of the job market. Many roles had high requirements, and it took some time to match my experience with the right opportunities. Additionally, I had to refine my resume and cover letter to better highlight my skills and accomplishments. Through the process, I learned a lot about the importance of resilience and staying proactive. I also took the time to develop my personal brand online, particularly on LinkedIn, which helped me connect with hiring managers. I gained clarity on the kind of company culture I want to be a part of moving forward. Ultimately, my persistence paid off. I was offered a role that’s a great fit for my skills and interests, and I’m excited to start this new chapter. The search process also helped me define the kind of work environment I thrive in, which made me more confident in making this decision.
Tell us about your current roles at Yale.
In my current role as an administrative assistant, I support senior lecturers and collaborate with various departments to ensure smooth office operations. My day-to-day includes managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling communications, and providing general office support. My past experiences, particularly my internship in the Registrar’s Office at Yale University and my per-diem role in the operating room at Yale New Haven Hospital, helped me develop key skills like office management, multitasking, and proficiency in office software. Those experiences gave me a solid foundation for my current role, allowing me to manage tasks efficiently and contribute to the overall success of the team.
What advice do you have for other job seekers?
The most helpful aspect of my internship and on-the-job training was the opportunity to work hands-on with office management tools and software. This hands-on experience has made it much easier to handle tasks in my current role, where effective time management and communication are key. For applicants with research goals, my advice would be to focus on both practical experience and continuous learning. Whether you’re gaining experience through internships or projects, make sure to stay curious, be proactive in seeking learning opportunities, and connect with others in the field. Research can be challenging, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can achieve your goals.
What is next for you?
On a personal level, my goal is to continue growing both professionally and as an individual. I aspire to eventually transition into a leadership role within my company, where I can oversee larger initiatives and guide teams to success. I’m committed to achieving this by continuing to take on new challenges at work, seeking mentorship from senior colleagues, and pursuing relevant certifications. Additionally, I want to maintain a healthy work-life balance by dedicating time to personal growth activities like reading, fitness, and volunteering. Recently, I purchased a house in my hometown, and I am looking forward to starting my new journey as a homeowner.