Reinvent your professional journey

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Comprehensive Guide to Reinventing Your Professional Journey

In today's rapidly evolving job market, the necessity to continually refresh and revitalize your career trajectory cannot be overstated. This guide from Mr. Robertson's Corner is designed to illuminate the path to injecting new vigor into your professional endeavors, ensuring that you not only stay ahead of the curve but also unlock new avenues for opportunity and growth.

Professional Development through Workshops

At the heart of staying relevant in any field is the commitment to enhancing your skills. Participating in workshops and training sessions represents a critical investment in your professional growth. These opportunities allow you to immerse yourself in the latest industry trends, technologies, and methodologies, solidifying your status as an indispensable team member. Beyond skill acquisition, these forums serve as vital networking platforms, connecting you with like-minded professionals and industry leaders, thereby reinforcing your dedication to both personal and professional development.

Tailoring Your Resume for Each Application

Customizing your resume for each job application is the best solution to demonstrate your attention to detail and the skills and experience you bring to the table. By aligning your achievements with the employer's specific needs, you make your application stand out. This strategy shows you've done your homework and directly addresses what the hiring manager is looking for. Consequently, your resume's impact is significantly amplified, making you a more attractive candidate.

Leveraging Mentorship

The journey through your career landscape is markedly smoother with the guidance of a seasoned mentor or coach. These experts bring to the table a wealth of knowledge encompassing workplace navigation and strategic career planning. Their unbiased insights can spotlight growth opportunities and help sidestep common obstacles, making mentorship an indispensable mechanism for broadening your professional network and gaining access to wisdom beyond conventional learning resources.

Expanding Horizons with Additional Projects

An effective method to distinguish yourself within your current role is to embrace new projects and responsibilities. This proactive stance not only enriches your professional repertoire but also underscores your initiative and versatility. Engaging in tasks outside your usual scope can catalyze significant personal and career development, enhancing your appeal for prospective advancements and elevating your professional profile.

Broadening Skills through Lateral Moves

Exploring lateral opportunities within your organization can unveil a breadth of learning and experience. Such moves enable you to delve into varied roles, departments, or sectors without the risks associated with starting anew. Embracing this strategy enriches your skill set, offering a comprehensive understanding of the business from multiple perspectives, and equipping you for more adaptive and informed leadership in the future.

Enriching Your Career through Volunteering

Committing to volunteer or pro bono initiatives allows you to apply your professional skills in novel contexts, benefiting both societal causes and your career. This engagement showcases your commitment to making a difference and your willingness to extend your impact beyond the workplace. These experiences not only diversify your professional background but also open the door to new career opportunities, reflecting a well-rounded and socially responsible professional ethos.

Gaining Perspective with a Sabbatical

Opting for a sabbatical presents a unique chance to rejuvenate, pursue personal interests, or develop new skills, offering a fresh outlook on your career and life. This period of reflection and exploration can lead to profound insights into your professional desires and aspirations, contributing to enhanced job satisfaction and effectiveness upon your return.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to rejuvenate your career is an endeavor that requires thoughtful strategy and active participation. By embracing key tactics like finding a mentor and tailoring your resume, you position yourself for sustained professional growth, competitiveness, and success. Begin today to take deliberate steps towards revitalizing your career path, ready to seize the exciting opportunities that await, and embark on a rewarding and prosperous professional trajectory.

Creating a professional development plan

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Crafting a Professional Development Plan: Your Roadmap to Career Success

A Professional Development Plan (PDP) is your strategic ally in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of career growth. It's your personal guide that illuminates your career path, helping you identify your competencies, harness your potential, and chart a course towards achieving your career aspirations. It's not simply about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about acquiring skills, embracing challenges, and driving continuous learning to flourish in your chosen field. If you need help putting this plan together, let this guide shared below by Mr. Robertson's Corner serve as a great resource to help you get started.

Assess Your Skills and Identify Gaps

The first step in creating a professional development plan is to evaluate your current skills objectively. What are your strengths? Where do you excel? Equally important is identifying your weaknesses or areas where you lack certain skills. This self-assessment serves as the foundation upon which you build your professional development plan. Remember, the goal is not to be hard on yourself but rather to develop a clear understanding of where you currently stand professionally.

Define Your Professional Goals

Once you have a clear understanding of your skills and gaps, it's time to define your career objectives. These objectives should reflect both your short-term and long-term goals. Having well-defined goals provides a sense of direction and helps you maintain focus on your professional journey. Your goals could range from improving certain skills to stepping into leadership roles or even transitioning to a completely new field of work. Remember, these goals should be realistic and align with your personal growth and professional aspirations. Constantly revisiting and reassessing these objectives will ensure that you stay on track and make meaningful progress in your career.

Create a Plan for Professional Development

When the time comes to apply for a new role, it's imperative to have a well-written cover letter and resume. These two documents are your first opportunity to make a great impression on potential employers. This breaks down what a cover letter is: it’s an introduction of yourself and a tool to pique an employer's interest in your skills and experiences. It's not just about listing your qualifications, but also about weaving a narrative that shows you're the right fit for the job. Similarly, a well-structured resume gives a concise overview of your career trajectory, highlighting key achievements and skills. To increase your chances of landing an interview, consider utilizing online tools. These platforms can guide you in mastering the art of writing a compelling cover letter and crafting a resume that stands out. Remember, your goal is to capture the employer's attention and show them why you're the best candidate for the role.

Establish a Timeline

Creating a timeline for your professional goals is crucial. This roadmap will outline the steps and milestones needed to reach your career objectives. It's not just about setting deadlines, but also identifying the resources and actions required. This keeps you on track and allows you to measure progress. Be realistic, considering your current commitments to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

For those aiming for entrepreneurship, careful preparation is key. Start by devising a solid business plan that outlines your vision, target audience, and unique selling propositions. Securing funding, developing a marketing strategy, and understanding the legal process of registering your business are all essential steps to success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a professional development plan requires self-assessment, goal setting, resource exploration, mastering job application skills, timeline creation, and considering entrepreneurship if it aligns with your career objectives. By following these steps, you're setting yourself up for success in your professional journey, ensuring you're always moving forward towards achieving your career goals.

Resume / Curriculum Vitae (CV) of Aaron S. Robertson

Aaron S. Robertson, MSM
therobertsonholdingsco@yahoo.com   414.418.2278
www.linkedin.com/in/aaronsrobertson
www.mrrobertsonscorner.com

A Roman Catholic educator passionate about bringing out the best in students and helping them discover success in life and career. Teamwork, collaborative thinking, and building meaningful relationships are integral to accomplishing this and to all that I do.

Education & Professional Development

 

Pursued a Ph.D. in Leadership, 2015-2023 – University closed while in ABD status.
Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Research interests included China’s artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, entrepreneurial climate, and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); classical realism and realpolitik in International Relations (IR); and U.S. – China Cold War theory.

Pursuing a Master of Arts in Theology, Expected Graduation 2028.
Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology, Franklin, Wisconsin
2023 – Present

Master of Science in Management (MSM) 2013

Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Minors in Sociology & Philosophy 2007
Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Additional Coursework in International Relations (IR)

All coursework taken through Udemy.com, non-credit 2020

 
• "International Politics Mastery 2020: Think Theoretically" – taught by Kamil Zwolski, Ph.D.
• "International Relations Theory: Realism" – taught by Kamil Zwolski, Ph.D.
• "International Relations and Politics: The Origins of NATO" – taught by Paul F.J. Aranas, Ph.D.
• "The Rise of China" – taught by Kasim Javed, political analyst
• "Understanding of U.S.-Russia Relations in the Asia-Pacific" – taught by Andrei S. Golobokov, Ph.D.

Software & Online Teaching and Learning Tools

• Microsoft: Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, Excel, Teams
• Google: Gmail, Docs, Slides, Calendar, Meet, Blogger
• Kami
• Zoom
• Infinite Campus (IC)
  
• IXL
• i-Ready
• Pikmykid school safety and dismissal app
• Gimkit
  

Professional Conferences & Workshops Attended

The Spirit & Craft of Teaching in the Catholic Liberal Arts Tradition June 2025
Institute for Catholic Liberal Education
(Aquinas College, Nashville, Tennessee)


Advanced Training:

• Online courses and certifications covering various special education, substitute teaching, online teaching, tutoring, and educational psychology subjects through Vector Solutions/SafeSchools, STEDI.org, Professional Learning Board, Udemy.com, and the National Tutoring Association (NTA). (2019 – Present)
• Nonviolent Crisis Intervention certification through Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI). Certified from July 24, 2018 – Present.

 

Professional Work Summary

 

Upper Elementary and Middle School Teacher 2024 – Present
St. Joseph Academy, a classical Catholic school
(Sioux Falls, South Dakota)

Taught a combined 4/5 grade class, as well as pre-algebra to a combined 6/7 grade class, during the 2024-2025 school year. Slated to teach a combined 5/6 grade class, as well as algebra to a combined 7/8 grade class, during the 2025-2026 school year. In addition to the math, other subjects taught include history, science, English, and Latin. Primary teaching strategies and techniques employed emphasize and incorporate the use of mimetic learning, seminar discussion, nature observation, memory work, and self-reflection.

Substitute Teacher and Paraprofessional 2024 – Present
Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools
(Sioux Falls, South Dakota)

Served as a K-12 substitute teacher, substitute paraprofessional, and substitute after-school care assistant for Bishop O'Gorman Catholic Schools, a city-wide, multi-school system located in Sioux Falls.

Middle School Math Teacher – Summer School 2024
Bay Lane Elementary School
(Muskego-Norway School District, Muskego, Wisconsin)

As an employee of Teachers On Call (TOC), taught a middle school math workshop for incoming fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students during the 2024 summer school session.

Special Education Paraprofessional – Summer School 2023
Mukwonago High School
(Mukwonago Area School District, Mukwonago, Wisconsin)

Leveraged my expertise as a special education paraprofessional and substitute teacher of five years to serve students during the 2023 summer school session. Primarily assisted students in second, third, fourth, and sixth grade math classes. Daily bus assistant duty. Served, on occasion, as an internal substitute teacher.

Education Professional 2021 – 2024

Broadscope Disability Services, Inc.

(Greater Milwaukee area)

 

Broadscope Disability Services, or BDS, is not my employer. Rather, private families are my direct employers, and BDS, through its BDS Fiscal arm, serves as fiscal agent, compensating me for my services. In this capacity, I primarily work with middle school and high school students outside of the school day on building daily living skills and learning how to access various community resources. Examples may include visiting a store with a set shopping list and budget while learning how to interact with store staff at checkout and when help is needed; or visiting the local public library and learning how to search for items and interact with library staff at checkout and whenever further assistance may be needed. I also provide mentoring and respite care. Strong, ongoing communication and relationship building with parents and families, along with occasional written reports, are critical for success in this role. I support students with disabilities and learning challenges ranging from Autism and ADHD to Down Syndrome and Emotional & Behavioral Disorders (EBD).

Special Education Assistant – Cross-Categorical 2021 – 2022
New Berlin Eisenhower Middle/High School
(School District of New Berlin, New Berlin, Wisconsin)

Provided 1:1 and small group academic support to students in grades 7-12; supported regular education students across all six grade levels and a variety of subjects; significant experience working with medically fragile students, including feeding and toileting assistance, utilizing various assistive technologies and equipment, and monitoring for possible health emergencies; responsible for maintaining my own detailed sub plans; responsible for maintaining worklogs for Medicaid billing through the Accelify platform; served as a chaperone for three dances; proctored one live ACT test; served, on occasion, as an internal substitute teacher.

Special Education Assistant – Foundations program 2019 – 2021
New Berlin Eisenhower Middle/High School
(School District of New Berlin, New Berlin, Wisconsin)

Provided 1:1 academic and behavioral support to students in grades 7-12 with significant disabilities; in some cases, provided feeding and toileting assistance, along with the dispensing of medication; responsible for maintaining my own detailed sub plans; responsible for maintaining worklogs for Medicaid billing through the Accelify platform; supported regular education students across all six grade levels and a variety of subjects; proctored practice ACT tests and supported an ACT science strategy session; volunteered for practice sessions to support the school’s academic decathlon team; served as a chaperone for the 2021 senior dance; assisted with the 2021 commencement ceremony; provided 1:1 academic and behavioral support for students enrolled in the 2021 summer school program and summer STEM camp.

Private Tutor 2019 – Present
Working with middle school, high school, and college undergraduate students

General subjects available, in no particular order:

ACT and SAT test prep - Research Skills - Study Skills - Self-Advocacy - Writing and Essays - Roman Catholic faith and Church history - AP courses: English Language and Composition, Comparative Government and Politics, Macroeconomics, Psychology, United States Government and Politics, United States History - Career Readiness & Workforce Development (mock job interviews, resume help, soft skills, career assessments, field trips, networking opportunities, help identifying majors and education tracks) - Business and Management - Marketing - Online marketing and social media for business - Entrepreneurship - Leadership - Personal Finance, Investing, and Economics - Organizational Culture - U.S. History - American Government - Political parties and movements in the U.S. (present and historical) - Soviet Union: general history, government, politics - China: general history, government, its current artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), its entrepreneurial climate, & U.S. - China Cold War theory - International Relations (IR) - Realism in International Relations (IR) - Political Theory - Economic Theory - Sociological Theory - Philosophy - Psychology - Test Prep - Advice on scholarship application essays

Publisher 2018 – Present
Mr. Robertson’s Corner blog
(MrRobertsonsCorner.com)

Meaningful reflections, stories, ideas, advice, resources, and homework help for middle school, high school, and college undergraduate students. We explore history, philosophy, critical thinking, the trades, business, careers, entrepreneurship, college majors, financial literacy, the arts, the social sciences, test prep, baseball, the Catholic faith, and more.

Special Education Paraprofessional 2018 – 2019
Whitnall High School
(Whitnall School District, Greenfield, Wisconsin)

Supported both special education and regular education students across all four grade levels and a variety of subjects; co-taught English 11; co-advised Film Club; authorized driver of district vehicles; prom chaperone; led marketing efforts for a golf outing to raise funds for the athletics/activities department; utilized my background in marketing and event planning to advise the booster club of various challenges and opportunities in a changing donor and volunteer landscape; served, on occasion, as an internal substitute teacher.

Substitute Teacher and Paraprofessional 2018 – 2024
Teachers On Call
(A Kelly Company, based in Bloomington, Minnesota)

Served as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional in both on-call and long-term capacities in several area public school districts and Roman Catholic schools. Experience at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, and in both regular education and special education environments. Primary focus at the middle and high school levels.

Head of Marketing and Public Relations 2018 – 2019
DandiLion Daze, formerly known as Muskego Community Festival / Muskego Fest

Responsible for developing and implementing a robust marketing and PR strategy that included social media messaging, signage, radio, and press coverage for an annual festival supporting nine local community service clubs and organizations; crafted a donation request letter for potential event sponsors; assisted with booking music acts.

Business Manager 2017 – 2018
Reidy, Inc., DBA Estate Services
(A Muskego, Wisconsin-based remodeling and construction contractor)

Leveraged expertise to perform in a broad scope of areas, including general bookkeeping, preparing written reports, office management including the paying of invoices and the billing of clients, negotiations with vendors, strategic planning, customer service, marketing, lead generation, and sales support.

Strategies included:

• Performing the duties of a social media manager, guiding the company’s social media strategy and online presence.
• Providing advice, guidance, and research on a broad scope of business and financial areas.
• Producing creative and engaging copy for printed marketing materials.
• Utilizing QuickBooks for general bookkeeping, payroll, and tax prep for the company’s accounting team.
  

Specific projects included:

• Procured a $50,000 line of credit for the business.
• Procured a legally-binding contract and a more detailed lien waiver form for use between the company and its clients.
• Worked with a design team at GoDaddy to replace the firm’s existing Web site from before my arrival – I personally provided the site’s copy and engineered its search engine optimization (SEO).
• Researched and hired a collection agency to pursue uncooperative clients.
• Researched and hired a credit card processing firm to accept credit cards as a form of payment from clients.
• Revived the company’s Facebook page after remaining dormant for some time before my arrival, building an engaged following and a viable lead source.
• Redesigned the firm’s client invoice and estimate paperwork to better represent and showcase the company and, in effect, provide another viable marketing opportunity for the business.

Customer Experience Team Lead 2012 – 2017
Head of Online Marketing
Trainer
Spectrum Communications
(A telephone answering service and call center in Brookfield, Wisconsin acquired by Stericycle, Inc. in 2014, becoming part of the established portfolio of Communications Solutions)
 

As Customer Experience Team Lead, a position held from March 2015, I was charged with spearheading and overseeing a broad scope of staff development, coaching, and mentorship initiatives. Additionally, my responsibilities included staff scheduling, attendance, conflict resolution, disciplinary action, client relationship management, and submitting direct reports to senior leadership.

Strategies included:

• Training a performance-driven team of customer experience agents (CEAs) on delivering enhanced account management services to best help bolster client relations.
• Attracting, retaining and coaching a team of diverse professionals that span all aspects of Spectrum Communications/Stericycle with a common vision and mission.
• Functioning in a myriad of areas pertaining to Web marketing and customer engagement strategies, personnel training and team development processes.
• Influencing and handling customer inquiries for a variety of products and services by way of a prepared script and on-going professional training.
• Managing the company’s Web site, blog, social media campaigns, and search engine optimization (SEO) initiatives, resulting in significant increase with online traffic and client engagement.
• Providing exceptional customer service and value-added services to callers while maintaining strict adherence to corporate policies and government regulations.
• Initiated, coordinated, and authored, The Spectrum Scoop, which became the firm’s most widely-read internal employee newsletter.

Correspondent 2011
Muskego Patch

Strategies included:

• Developing highly-successful techniques for aggregating information and performing a variety of functions by way of key interviews, thorough research and analytical reporting.
• Wrote on a broad scope of topics ranging from features and human-interest stories, municipal government, political, and business news, and opinion pieces.
• Establishing exceptional, collaborative relationships and motivating coworkers to meet and exceed company goals.

Publisher 2010 – Present
MilwaukeeBusinessOpportunities.com

Strategies included:

• Writing, editing, organizing, researching and aggregating content for a well-trafficked blog.
• Facilitating in a range of functions; performing exclusive interviews, gathering information on various metro-area business news, networking groups and events, festivals, attractions, and polls.

President & Shareholder 2007 – 2013
Intrepid Innovations, Inc.
(An Internet marketing firm specializing in strategic marketing solutions for businesses looking to generate online traffic, increase sales, and maximize Web growth)

Strategies included:

• Developing a range of effective search engine optimization (SEO) strategies aimed largely at small to mid-sized businesses.
• Establishing online social media profiles and providing continual maintenance with updates and relevant activities.
• Performing all content management functions including, but not limited to, press releases and editorial writing, advertising/copy editing, and promotional releases and distribution.
• Cultivating strong client relations with full responsibility for networking, contract negotiations, client meetings, general bookkeeping, and operational management.

Additional Experience
Correspondent 2007 – 2010
Muskego Chronicle

Professional Licenses & Certifications

Initial Safe Environment Certification Curriculum for Clergy, Employees, and Volunteers
Archdiocese of Milwaukee
Valid February 16, 2022 through February 16, 2027.

Level 2 Intelligence Analyst certification
Udemy.com – taught by Lt. Col. Robert Folker, USAF (Ret.)
Obtained August 2020. No expiration date.

Level 1 Intelligence Analyst certification
Udemy.com – taught by Lt. Col. Robert Folker, USAF (Ret.)
Obtained August 2020. No expiration date.

Special Education Program Aide License – 5 Year
State of Wisconsin, License 4070061674 – Valid July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2026.

Teaching – Short-Term Substitute License – 3 Year
State of Wisconsin, License 1910061739 – Valid July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027.

Notary Public
State of Wisconsin, License 204996 – My commission expired on July 9, 2024.

Business Community Leadership Roles

 

Founder & Facilitator 2014 – 2018
Genesis Networking Group
(Business networking group that met over breakfast twice per month at Genesis Restaurant in Greenfield, Wisconsin to discuss relevant business and professional development topics of interest and assist members with referrals)

Secretary 2009 – 2019
Hales Corners Chamber of Commerce

Board Member, Ambassador 2008 – 2018
Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism

Memberships & Affiliations

Knights of Columbus, Sioux Falls 2025 – Present
3rd Degree Member – Council No. 12617, St. Michael Parish

St. Michael Parish, Sioux Falls 2024 – Present
Member – Men’s group

St. Mary Parish, Hales Corners 2021 – 2024
Member - Men’s group, catechist, small group discussion leader

National Tutoring Association 2021 – Present
Member

Whitnall Park Rotary Club 2018 – 2019
Muskego satellite club

Past President 2014 – 2023
Muskego Lions Club

Past President 2010 – 2022
City of Muskego Library Board

Zoning Board of Appeals 2008 – 2022
City of Muskego

Past 2nd Term President 2008 – 2024
Kiwanis Club of Muskego

Public Service Campaigns

Candidate 2009
Muskego-Norway School Board

Candidate 2008 & 2010
Wisconsin state Assembly ▪ District 83

Elected Student Government Roles

Senator 2018 – 2021
Representing graduate students
Cardinal Stritch University

Vice President of Legislative Assembly 2006 – 2007
Cardinal Stritch University

President 2005 – 2006
Cardinal Stritch University

Publications

 

Competing in the Call Center Industry: The Case of Spectrum Communications 2013
Capstone Research Product Title
Advisor: Thomas A. Lifvendahl, Ed. D.
Available at https://digitalcommons.stritch.edu/etd/114

Beyond Majors and G.P.A.: A Real Philosophy for College and the World Ahead 2007
Second Edition. Lincoln NE: iUniverse
ISBN: 0-595-46517-X (pbk), 0-595-90815-2 (ebk)

Media Appearances

Chicoine, J. (author), and Pannell, J. (photos). (2025, May issue). Faith, love and new beginnings: The Robertson’s family story. Sioux Falls Parish Neighbors, pp. 8-9.

Simandan, V. M. (2014, June 24). “You have to embrace innovation”: Interview with Aaron S. Robertson from Spectrum Communications.
Retrieved from http://www.simandan.com/?p=11535

Laughtland, A. (2014, April 5). Meet Aaron S. Robertson, freelance journalist. With Five Questions. Retrieved from http://www.withfivequestions.blogspot.com/2014/04/meet-aaron-s-robertson-freelance.html

Shea, J. (2014, April 3). Interview with Aaron S. Robertson, head of online marketing at Spectrum Communications. Voices of Marketing.
Retrieved from http://www.voicesofmarketing.com/written-interviews/interview-aaron-s-robertson- head-online-marketing-spectrum-communications

Johnson-Elie, T. (2009, February 3). Networking club has youthful focus. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Lawrence, J. (2009, January 10). A new networking site for students and recent grads. OnMilwaukee.com. Retrieved from
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/buzz/articles/intrepidnetworking.html

Catholic Knight. (2008, Fall issue). Book smart: Young author offers his philosophy on college and the world ahead, pp. 14-15.

Paulsen, D. (2008, March 6). Muskego man part of new business that taps the power of the Internet. Muskego Chronicle, Business, p. 1.

Interviews & Writing Credits

1. Branscombe Richmond, Hollywood television and film actor; stuntman. September 2011.
2. Dr. Terence Roehrig, professor, U.S. Naval War College; Korea expert. December 2011.
3. Carl Giammarese, lead singer, The Buckinghams; singer and songwriter. December 2011.
4. Alyssa Bolsey, filmmaker; director, The Jacques Bolsey Project. December 2011.
5. Godfrey Townsend, New York-based guitarist and singer. January 2012.
6. Carl Bonafede, legendary Chicago radio personality, band manager, music promoter, record producer, and booking agent. January 2012.
7. Doug “Cosmo” Clifford, drummer, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Creedence Clearwater Revisited (CCR). June 2012.
8. Mark Dawson, lead vocals and bassist, The Grass Roots. September 2012.
9. Chris Szebeni, lead singer, Boxkar. November 2012.
10. Rebecca Romney, rare books expert and occasional guest on the show, Pawn Stars. February 2013.
11. David White, founder, Danny & The Juniors; singer and songwriter. April 2013.
12. Stu Cook, bassist, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Creedence Clearwater Revisited (CCR). July 2013.
13. Mark Hall-Patton, administrator of the Clark County Museum and occasional guest on the show, Pawn Stars. May 2014.
14. Jefferson Grizzard, guitarist and singer. June 2014.
15. Samantha Lukens, designer and MFA candidate. September 2014.
16. Paul Spiegelman, best-selling author and culture executive. January 2015.
17. Bill Turner, former lead guitarist for Bill Haley in the 1970s; Front man, Blue Smoke. March 2015.

Selected Thought Leadership Writing Samples

Robertson, A. S. (2019, September 21). The importance of reflection. Posted to https://www.mrrobertsonscorner.com/2019/09/the-importance-of-reflection.html

Robertson, A. S. (2019, March 9). I was a slacker in high school. Posted to https://www.mrrobertsonscorner.com/2019/03/i-was-slacker-in-high-school.html

Robertson, A. S. (2019, January 31). The many benefits of volunteer work. Posted to https://www.mrrobertsonscorner.com/2019/01/the-many-benefits-of-volunteer-work.html

Robertson, A. S. (2019, January 26). The double-edged sword of technology. Posted to https://www.mrrobertsonscorner.com/2019/01/the-double-edged-sword-of-technology.html

Robertson, A. S. (2018, December 8). Creating a resume and applying for work. Posted to https://www.mrrobertsonscorner.com/2018/12/creating-resume-and-applying-for-work.html

Robertson, A. S. (2018, July 26). It’s time to think inside the box: The education moment delivered to the BNI Boundless Business networking group on July 26, 2018. Posted to https://www.milwaukeebusinessopportunities.com/2018/07/its-time-to-think-inside-box.html

Robertson, A. S. (2018, July 15). The value proposition in your business. Posted to https://www.milwaukeebusinessopportunities.com/2018/07/the-value-proposition-in-your-business.html

Robertson, A. S. (2018, June 27). How to generate more and better business ideas: The education moment delivered to the BNI Boundless Business networking group on June 28, 2018. Posted to https://www.milwaukeebusinessopportunities.com/2018/06/how-to-generate-more-and-better.html

References & Recommendations Furnished Upon Request
therobertsonholdingsco@yahoo.com   414.418.2278

Voluntourism

Voluntourism: Making the world a better place one trip at a time

Voluntourism is a popular form of international travel that combines the good intentions and the many benefits of volunteering with the excitement of tourism. Aimed at those looking to make a positive change in the world, voluntourism provides a safe and easy way for tourists to help others in developing or devastated communities around the world, without the typical time commitments seen in more traditional forms of international volunteering.

To help keep costs at a minimum, voluntourists often live with host families while staying in their selected region. Such arrangements are mutually beneficial. Not only is the local community rewarded by the efforts of generous volunteers, but the volunteers themselves are rewarded by being directly immersed into the local culture, giving them a perspective and meaningful opportunities to reflect not easily seen from the vantage point of a standard tourist.

Reaching all areas of the globe, voluntourism spans countless interests including archeology, building, care, conservation, farming, sports, and teaching. Various programs focusing on interests such as these are then tailored to each volunteer's age, schedule, and level of commitment. Business voluntourism is also becoming popular and can be great for team building, public relations, and employee morale.

For youths interested in voluntourism, programs are available for high school -aged individuals through several organizations over the summer months. There are also spring break and gap year voluntourism opportunities aimed at college-aged individuals looking to make a difference. Not only does participation in such programs leave many youths with a new perspective on the world, it can also make for an interesting addition to the participants' college applications and resumes.

Before finalizing any voluntourism plans, it's important that you research a number of different voluntourism organizations, as not all offer the same options or experiences. It's also worth noting that in some cases, the organization may help subsidize costs like airfare, insurance, and personal allowances, while in other cases, it's the volunteers who must cover the full cost of the trip.

So, if you want to see the world while doing something meaningful with your life, it's time to give the idea of voluntourism some real consideration. By becoming a voluntourist, you can build lasting friendships, have rewarding experiences, and make a real difference in the lives of those living in developing or devastated communities around the world.

Learning over winter break

As we begin winter break (or recently began it) for both high school and college students, I want to challenge you to take advantage of this time to continue learning and expanding that wonderful gift you have - your mind. I don't necessarily mean school work, although high school students may have some actual school work to take home and complete during their break. College students, on the other hand, will usually be between semesters with no school work.

The kind of learning I'm primarily talking about here is learning that will help you in identifying and selecting potential career and college tracks that you may be interested in pursuing.

Use a good portion of your break time to reflect and figure some of these things out. It will certainly be to your advantage. What are your hobbies and interests? What have you done so far for volunteer work, or what would you like to do for volunteer work? Is there anyone you can start networking with? Do you already have a basic resume ready to go, or do you need to work on that still? If you're still in high school, have you started exploring any formal post- high school training and education you may want or need to obtain?

Take advantage of this time. Don't squander it. Check out this page of career readiness resources for more ideas and inspiration.

Studying abroad

In this post, we'll be discussing the subject of studying abroad. If you're considering international travel as a part of your studies, either as a high school student or college student, you'll want to read and bookmark this post, as it will serve as a valuable resource for you when deciding whether a study abroad program is right for you.

Studying abroad, if you can make it happen, can be a wonderful, rewarding experience on a couple different fronts.

For starters, on more of a personal level, you're getting the chance to travel to another part of the world and take in some great sightseeing and attractions, along with another culture and all it has to offer - cuisine, language, music, customs, etc. You may make a few lifelong friends from the country you're visiting. In any case, there's no doubt you'll be making memories that will stay with you for life.

On more of a professional level, you're also setting yourself up nicely to stand out from the competition in the employment market. What an incredible, unique experience to be able to discuss and showcase on your resume. And if you picked up some solid language skills along the way, even better. The ability to write and speak in another language should have its own section on your resume. And let's not forget about all of the wonderful networking opportunities that can come out of this experience, either. The teachers, professors, other students, and local professionals that you'll be working with and getting to know during your time abroad can come to serve as valuable connections that can help you open many doors to professional opportunities.

So, without further ado, let's get into our guide and discussion on studying abroad. We'll begin by exploring strategies to help you select the right school for you. Next, we'll look at ways to help in striking that critical balance between staying on task when it comes to studying, and having fun. Finally, we'll discuss a few tips to help you stay in touch with your loved ones back home.

Enjoy! 

Preparing for your study abroad experience: Choosing the right school

Studying abroad is an experience like no other. Not only do international schools set the stage for unique character building moments, but they can also provide the perfect environment for fostering a student's independence and maturity. To reap the full benefits of studying abroad, however, each student must choose the school that is right for them, which isn't always the easiest thing to do.

To help make the process a little easier, here are some questions that, when answered, will help you identify your perfect school:

• What do you hope to get out of your overall experience?
• How long do you want to study abroad?
• Which countries interest you most?
• Do you have a specific course or language you'd like to study?
• Are you more drawn to urban or rural settings?
• Do you prefer larger institutions or smaller, more intimate schools?
• Would you prefer a school that handles all the planning for its students or one where students take the initiative in most areas?

By answering these questions prior to searching, you'll be more equipped to find the schools that best fit your personal needs and preferences. As you conduct your search, be sure to make a list of any schools you would consider studying at, so you can more easily compare them later. Making a list of each school's features and drawbacks can also be helpful for when it comes time to compare individual schools. Finally, depending on your circumstances, it may be worth checking if each school's accreditation is recognized by schools and employers in your home country.

Now, before ruling out any schools, there are certain considerations that should be explored. A major factor you'll need to consider is the total cost of each study abroad program. Remember, different programs cost different amounts of money, and the full cost of studying abroad isn't always straightforward. Before deciding on a school, always check if the stated fees include the cost of housing, food, and extracurricular excursions. If such fees are not included, then your adventure will likely cost far more than the advertised price.

Before applying to any schools, you'll also need to check if your chosen program has any requirements for joining. Must students meet certain academic grade requirements to be welcomed into the program? Perhaps there are prerequisite courses that must be completed before you'll be granted admission. Certain schools also have language requirements that need to be met before enrollment can be finalized. To avoid wasting your time applying for programs that you aren't yet qualified for, always consult each program's list of requirements before filling out its corresponding application.

In the end, no matter which schools you are considering, it's important that you thoroughly research your options so that you fully understand what to expect if you are accepted to a study abroad program. Studying abroad is a big commitment, so always research ahead of time and talk with your family, friends, and academic advisor about any concerns you may have. By choosing the right school before you leave, you can maximize the benefits of your overall study abroad experience.

The importance of balancing work and play while studying abroad

Though studying abroad opens the door to many new and exciting adventures, it's important to remember that your education is also a priority. That's why, to have a truly successful experience while studying abroad, you'll need to balance work and play while you're away. Unfortunately, achieving the delicate balance between work and play isn't always the easiest thing to accomplish, especially for students without a parent or guardian nearby to help keep them on track. In such cases, you'll have to take it upon yourself to achieve your goals both inside and outside of the classroom.

So, to help you maintain a balance between work and play while studying abroad, here are four tips for staying focused on your studies, followed by another two tips for becoming a more efficient adventurer.

Tips for staying focused on your studies:

1. Pay close attention to your class schedule.

Your class schedule specifies when you should be in class, so don't use valuable class time to participate in non-school activities. Remember that your priority is to learn and to do so, you must attend the classes.

2. Keep track of school work and assignments.

Using a day planner, keep track of any upcoming tests and assignments you have due. This will help you stay on top of your course work so you can meet your deadlines.

3. Create a study plan.

Using your class schedule and day planner, create a study plan and stick to it. Do remember to schedule some time for adventure between study sessions however, because otherwise, you might as well have stayed home.

4. Find a study partner.

A study partner can help you stay focused on your studies, especially during times when you are feeling less than studious. Don't forget to return the favor if your partner needs some extra motivation, as well.

Tips for becoming a more efficient adventurer:

1. Prioritize the adventures that are most important to you.

There's likely a long list of things you'd like to see and do before returning home. While you probably won't have time to experience everything your host country has to offer, make sure to prioritize the things you'd most like to see and do before you leave. That way, you won't miss out on the attractions that are most important to you.

2. Think ahead.

Spontaneity can be great, but it can also cause you to spend more time than expected waiting in lines. Instead of making last-minute plans, think about your adventures in advance so you can make any needed reservations or pre-order any tickets or passes your adventures will require. A little preparation beforehand may allow you to bypass certain lines, so you can more efficiently explore your host country.

Studying abroad is a great way to expand your horizons, but to have a truly successful experience, it is necessary to balance both work and play. The problem is, when surrounded by so many new things to see and do, maintaining a satisfactory balance can be difficult. By adhering to the previously listed suggestions, however, you can prioritize your studies without having to forgo your most anticipated travel adventures.

How to keep in touch with loved ones at home while studying abroad

Whether it's just for a semester or for several years, there's no doubt that it can be hard being away from loved ones while studying abroad. Just because you happen to be in a different part of the world than your family and friends, however, doesn't mean you are ever truly alone. By making the effort to stay in contact with your family and friends while you are away, you can still feel connected to the people you care about, while enjoying the benefits from having the support of those who care about you.

Now, because keeping in touch with loved ones while studying abroad isn't always the easiest thing to do, certain actions should be taken before leaving to ease communication efforts while you are away. By taking such actions, you can eliminate many common communication obstacles faced by students who study abroad.

One common obstacle that can hinder communication efforts is a lack of Internet connectivity. Before leaving, determine whether Internet access will be available at your residence and, if not, consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot device to aide in online communications. Having access to the Internet will allow you to easily connect with loved ones through e-mail or on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

For times when Internet communications won't be an option, you'll need to find alternative ways to keep in touch, like over the phone or through the postal service with letters or postcards. If you plan to keep in touch with loved ones over the phone, keep in mind that without a decent contract, your phone bills could get out of hand. Before leaving, consider mitigating costs by purchasing an international roaming package from your cell phone provider or some international calling cards.

No matter how you'll be communicating, whether it be through e-mail, over the phone, or through the postal service, remember to bring the corresponding e-mail addresses, phone numbers, or mailing addresses for the people you plan to contact while you're away. If you'll be communicating through programs like Skype or FaceTime, consider setting everyone up with the required software before you go - especially people who aren't tech savvy.

Because it can be hard to schedule real-time conversations when conversing across time zones, consult with your family and friends about scheduling daily or weekly check-ins at agreed-upon times. If the time differences are too extreme and you are unable to find a time that works for all parties, consider exchanging voice or video messages, as they can always be played later when it's more convenient.

Also, it's worth noting that because everyone's going to want to hear all about your adventures, you'll likely be repeating yourself many times. To limit the number of times you'll have to tell the same stories to your family and friends, consider sharing some of your experiences on a personal blog or through social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Google Hangouts can also be useful in this regard, as it lets you communicate with several people at once, cutting down on the number of times you'll need to repeat yourself.

Though keeping in touch with loved ones isn't the easiest thing to do while studying abroad, there are, thankfully, several communication methods you can try which could potentially connect you with your family and friends back home. Regardless of which methods you end up choosing, however, remember to make the necessary preparations beforehand, so you'll have an easier time communicating with loved ones until you can return home.

Resume tips for landing job interviews

How your resume can make or break your chances of landing a job interview

Job hunting can potentially be very discouraging. Many times, you'll send out resume after resume, and never hear back from the many prospective employers you've reached out to. So, what can you do to rise above the competition and finally land some job interviews? Make sure you prepare an excellent resume. Your resume will likely be the first point of contact between you and prospective employers, so if it isn't doing you justice, then it probably won't land you an interview.

To increase your chances of being granted a job interview, keep the following three things in mind when creating your resume:

1. Aesthetics and Originality

An aesthetically pleasing, yet original looking resume will stand out from the rest. This is especially important when applying for highly sought-after positions that may attract hundreds or even thousands of applicants. By ensuring your resume is both aesthetically pleasing and unique enough to set it apart from the others, you can reduce the likelihood of your resume getting lost in the shuffle.

2. Readability

If your resume can't be easily read, then it's probably going to be cast aside. Don't hide your strengths and previous work experience in one large block of text, as this can make it hard to quickly scan the document, which is how many employers decide whether a resume is worth a second look. Also, ensure your font size is large enough to be easily read, or prospective employers might simply discard your resume, regardless of how well-written it happens to be.

3. Spelling and Grammar

A resume that passes the initial scan of aesthetics and readability also needs to impress prospective employers when they go in for a closer look. This is when having correct spelling and grammar is vitally important. Even the most qualified applicant can lose a chance at an interview if the resume is riddled with spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. Be sure your resume is error-free before sending it to any prospective employers.

The quality of your resume can be the deciding factor between never hearing back from prospective employers and landing an interview for the job of your dreams. When you are crafting your resume, be sure to consider all areas which may help you to stay ahead of the competition, so you're first in line when employers start granting applicant interviews. While spelling and grammar are obviously important considerations when writing a resume, don't discount other important areas like aesthetics, originality, and readability. By taking these areas into account when writing your resume, you can increase your chances of landing a job interview.

For more in-depth tips, ideas, and strategies, see my previous post, "Creating a resume and applying for work."