#ELGLInspire is headed to Cleveland State University on March 1, 2019! Learn more about our event speakers in these brief profiles, and connect with them on social media before and after the event!
Meg Ryan Shockey
City Councilwoman, City of Brooklyn, OH
What was the very first paying job you held (that you paid taxes on)?
Concession stand employee at city recreation center
What was your: undergraduate institution? Graduate institution? What was/were your degree(s) in?
Bowling Green State University (BA in Communications); Cleveland State University (Master of Urban Planning, Design & Development)
What class(es) (if any) are applicable to your job today?
Urban planning, urban development, public speaking, finance, community engagement, grant writing
Do you have a work or life motto? What is it?
Never give up
What book are you currently reading? Would you recommend it?
Becoming by Michelle Obama. Yes!
Other than ELGL – do you belong to any other professional associations? Which one(s)?
American Planning Association
What’s the best networking advice for job seekers you’ve heard or shared?
When you realize what job you are working towards, reach out to community members who hold that position or similar positions now and ask to sit down over coffee. Ask how they got to that position, what they wish they knew when they were starting off, and who else you could meet with (bonus if they’re willing to do an e-mail introduction). Networking is KEY for getting jobs.
What’s the fastest way to NOT get a job or internship with you? (e.g. what should potential applicants avoid doing if they were to ever interview with you for a position).
Telling me they don’t vote, or that elections don’t matter
Why should an undergraduate student consider a career working in local government?
Local governments are so versatile that they are a great place for anyone to work and learn!