Students at East Texas A&M University heard firsthand how careers can take unexpected turns during the “How I Found My Career” panel on Sept. 15.

Hosted by ETAMU's Office of Student Career Preparedness, the event brought three professionals with ties to the university into a classroom of students to discuss the decisions, opportunities and challenges that shaped their careers.

Panelists included Dr. Khanh Truong, an ETAMU graduate and physician board-certified in family medicine and sleep medicine; Mike Jumper, an ETAMU alumnus and senior vice president and director of mortgage banking at Alliance Bank; and Wilmagene “Wilma” Johnson, an ETAMU alumna whose career has included law enforcement and social work. Truong joined the discussion virtually, while Jumper and Johnson participated in person.

Despite their different professions, the panelists shared a common message: Students should remain open to opportunities and recognize that the experiences they accumulate throughout life can help shape their careers.

“Network with everyone, because you never know who might be able to help you out,” Truong told students.

Jumper encouraged students to take a long-term view of their professional lives.

“Something to remember is that a job is short term—a career is long game,” Jumper said. “And everything you do within your jobs, your schooling, your relationships, it all contributes to your career.”

Johnson demonstrated how dramatically that path can change. After a career in law enforcement, she returned to school in her 50s and earned a degree in social work.

“Life changes in a blink of an eye, and sometimes you just got to roll with it,” Johnson said.

Jeremy Evans, assistant director for career navigation, said the panel showed students that earning a degree does not limit them to one professional path.

“The stories shared by our panelists demonstrated that career paths are rarely linear and that a degree does not confine someone to a single profession,” Evans said. “Instead, the knowledge, experiences and skills gained through their education can be applied across a wide range of industries and opportunities.”

ETAMU's commitment to students extends beyond earning a diploma. The Office of Student Career Preparedness works with students and alumni on career exploration, job searches, résumés, interviews, internships and connections with employers. Its mission is to equip Lions with the skills and opportunities needed to compete in the job market and build fulfilling careers.

“Success is often built through curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to pursue possibilities that may not have been part of the original plan,” Evans said.