How This Chemistry Major Found Her Perfect Job in Recruiting

How This Chemistry Major Found Her Perfect Job in RecruitingThis Chemistry Majors Unlikely Path to a Career in RecruitingJaime Battle recently celebrated five years at Tzu sichmo Fiszu sich Scientific. But her path to her current job as a Talent Acquisition Recruiter was far from predictable. Today, she focuses on international university relations and diversity. Her story goes to show that your dream career might not be the one you expected to have. In fact, it might not even be directly related to your major. Read on for the story of how Jaime set off on an unexpected (and fulfilling) career at Thermo Fisher. Mom Knows BestAs her graduation from Spelman College was approaching, she wasnt sure what she wanted to do with her chemistry degree. To departure her job search, Jaime attended a career ritterlich where she struck up a conversation with Ronita Griffin from Thermo Fisher Scientific, who asked if she was interested in recruitment. It wasnt a natural career path for a chemistry major, but Jaime went home and researched the job, anyway. She ultimately decided it was a great fit for her interests, interviewed and started working for Thermo Fisher Scientific in December 2012. Jaimes job really came full-circle when she returned a year later to the same career fair where she got her startthis time as a recruiter. Because of her experience, she was in a unique position to help other students and recent graduates figure out their own ideal career path. Since starting her job over five years ago, shes learned valuable career skills, including the importance of time management, and what it takes to maintain a good work-life balanceeven when things at the office get hectic. Five Years (and Multiple Roles) LaterJaimes role at the company has changed a lot over the years. In the process, shes learned so much and been trusted with a lot of responsibilitylike spearheading and managing Thermo Fishers campus relations ambassador program and working with 12 campus ambassa dors from top-tier schools to host on-campus events and spread the word about Thermo Fisher at their colleges. In her current role focusing on university relations and diversity, Jaime works on a three-person gruppe to manage all internships for her 55,000-person company. Its a lot of work and a new challenge for Jaime, whos putting her acquired time-management skills to the test. Even after half a decade at the company, shes still learning and growing. Jaimes Top Four Career TipsTheres no denying that Jaime has come a long way in her career since she graduated with a degree in chemistry. Heres her top advice for college students, recent grads or anyone figuring out their next career move. Your college major doesnt have to dictate where you go. There are so many career options you might not even know exist. Do your research Dont sell yourself short. Jaime has talked to students who feel badly because theyre not at the top of their class. But there are so many things that make you qu alified for a job that have nothing to do with your grades. At your internship or job, prioritize meeting with different people and focus on building relationships to help you grow. Let people know youre there and willing to do great work. Find a mentor. Jaime met Alan Nevel, VP of Diversity and Inclusion at Thermo Fisher, while she was attending a conference. He quickly became her mentor, and showed her the importance of having someone as a coach and sounding board.Want to follow in Jaimes footsteps? Click here to learn more about Thermo Fisher and apply for open roles on WayUp