February Alumni Career Profile

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Name:   Jen Goodwin                                                                                      Class Year:  2000 Major:  Phys Ed/Recreation Current Employer: Harvard University

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Describe your career path since graduation.

I worked briefly in financial services while I finished up classes part time. Once I graduated, I began my coaching career.

 

 What is your current position and how long have you been with your employer? 

 My title is Assistant Softball Coach and I am in my second year at Harvard.

 

Describe the main responsibilities of your position. 

I act as Assistant Head Coach in all areas of running a Division I softball program. I don't just hit groundballs all day; there is a lot of administrative work that comes with coaching. I have a database of over 500 potential student-athletes that I am in touch with over the course of a year.

 

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I love that when I get up in the morning, I'm excited to go to work. I have a great group of student-athletes that I interact with on a daily basis. My favorite part of my job is seeing one of my players succeed; nothing beats it.

 

What do you find most challenging about your job? 

The schedule can be difficult and unpredictable at times. Depending on student-athletes (ages 16-18 as recruits and then ages 18-22 on my team) can be a little worrisome at times!

 

Describe your typical work week.  (How many hours you work, your work environment, etc.) 

Out-of-season work week vs. in-season is very different. My summer consists of a lot of travel for recruiting. My work week can be anywhere from 40-60+ hours a week depending on the time of year. My work environment is pretty relaxed; I can get away with wearing sweats to work. The people I work with all have the same goals in mind, so it is a very supportive environment.

 

What job search methods did you use to obtain your current position?  

The website www.ncaa.org lists all open coaching positions. Also, in the coaching world you will hear of a lot of openings through whom you know. I learned of this position from the assistant who was leaving and knew the head coach, so we immediately got in touch. Talk to people and let them know you are looking for a coaching job.

 

What advice could you give to students interested in your field? 

I would say the thing that has helped me most is the contacts I have made. I worked at different softball camps and got to know a lot of different people. In the end, if you are applying for a job and your contact person is someone you know personally, your chances of getting an interview are that much higher. Don't be afraid to ask questions of people in your field.  Most of us love talking about our jobs and can help you get on the right track.