#ELGLInspire is coming to UT Austin on October 2, 2019! Learn more about our event speakers in these brief profiles, and connect with them before and after the event!
Jessica Ramos
Youth Services Manager, Parks and Recreation, City of San Marcos
What was the very first paying job you held (that you paid taxes on)?
Kid’s Station. It was a local place in my hometown. I hosted birthday parties, cooked food, cleaned slides and other equipment, worked the ticket redemption counter, fixed arcade games, etc.
What was your: undergraduate institution? Graduate institution? What was/were your degree(s) in?
I obtained my undergraduate degree from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Administration.
What class(es) (if any) are applicable to your job today?
We had a lot of classes where we were able to do hands-on activities. I would say the two that were most beneficial were Programming and Leadership.
What book are you currently reading? Would you recommend it?
I have two small children, so I read a lot of kid’s books lately.
What’s the best networking advice for job seekers you’ve heard or shared?
Don’t be afraid to talk to people, get their e-mail and follow up with them. You might even visit their organization after meeting them.
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).
Confidence is always good, but it’s okay to be nervous too! If you tell me, I can help you work through it. Be up front! Also, make sure your telephone and e-mail correspondence is excellent.
Why should an undergraduate student consider a career working in local government?
Working in the public sector serving the community has been very rewarding, in my opinion. I enjoy the smiling faces at programs and events and putting tax dollars to work in a productive way.
Do you have a work or life motto? What is it?
Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion.