Andrew Voor '17
Major: Marketing
Minor: Ministry
Hometown: Clearwater, FL
Describe your current job role:
I’m currently working as a full-time middle school math teacher at First Baptist Christian School of Stuart. I also get to teach an Entrepreneurship elective, tutor students after school, and run a small math class online for high school students.
What professional experience(s) did you have prior to your current job role?
Being a student in the school of business meant that my internships prior to graduating were both focused on marketing. My experience in education was limited to volunteer work. I also had the benefit of working in student development through ResLife at PBA and as a camp counselor at WinShape Camps. Both of these experiences led to leadership roles and helped me develop the ability to adapt to a role in education even though I had little prior experience.
What do you know now that you wish you had known about being a working professional?
I wish I had known that it often isn’t a straight path to the job or career you want. There are many applications and interviews that you’ll prepare yourself for, just to find out mid-interview that the job wasn’t the right fit in the first place. At the same time, you can’t let any of the bumps discourage you from exploring opportunities as they appear. The best things in life often come out of uncomfortable and discouraging places!
"...it often isn't a straight path to the job or career you want."
How did PBA prepare you for the world of work?
PBA’s biggest growing experiences many times came in unexpected places. I never expected to be a RA in Rinker, but I can’t imagine life now without that change. It pushed me to form relationships I would not have had the opportunity to make otherwise. I also never saw myself having a ministry minor, but after one class I was hooked. The wisdom from not just the professors, but the students as well, is a blessing that I never planned on.
What advice would you give to current PBA students and/or young alumni who are about to start their first professional full-time job?
In my case, I decided to pursue a career outside of my major despite the anxiety it caused me. I have no regrets on making that decision, and would encourage others to pursue their passions and have faith that the knowledge and wisdom they gained from their college education will still be of great benefit.
Have you been mentored by anyone in your professional field since entering the workforce?
My fellow teachers have all been incredibly welcoming and caring in my first year as an educator. I’m a good bit younger than most of my co-workers, but the relationships I’ve built have not been focused on my age. Working in a Christian school means I not only get a professional mentorship from my superiors, but I also get a spiritual one.
Spotlight posted in March 2018. For current updates from Andrew, visit his LinkedIn page.