Amber Travis-BallinasFrom Amber Travis-Ballinas, BBA ’91 (UT), MBA ’94 (St. Thomas)
Career Creators—The Career Design Specialists

Dear Amber,

I am a McCombs MBA and am now pursuing a JD. Originally, I thought I wanted to go into a law firm, but now I am seriously considering returning to the corporate world. What types of opportunities exist for JD/MBAs in the corporate world? There seem to be no resources out there to give JD/MBAs direction in careers that aren't the traditional law firm.

Best,
JD/MBA

***

Sourcing employment opportunities in the current economic landscape can be both challenging and frustrating. The key to your success is keeping an open mind, being flexible and having realistic expectations.

It is crucial to consider career opportunities that exist for individuals with the knowledge, skills, abilities and experience which are outside of the traditional areas of employment for their education. There are many employment opportunities available for graduates with both a JD and MBA. A few examples to consider are:

• Trust fund companies
• Mediator/alternative dispute resolution
• Corporate counsel/co-counsel
• Private investigation services
• Paralegal services
• College or university faculty lecturer
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations

Have realistic expectations. Whenever entering into an industry/field as a new employee, it is important to have realistic expectations of the situation. The reality is that no matter your age, from where you graduated or what you have achieved in past positions, every career begins with an “entry level” position. Everyone has to “pay their dues.” This entry level period will last approximately 1-2 years.

Take action now to maximize the situation:

• Network! 80% of jobs are sourced through a network. Join and be active in professional organizations both related to and outside of your course of study both in school/work and within the greater community
• Take an internship. Work at as many different organizations as possible while you are attending school. Internships provide exposure to higher level functions and management personnel than entry level positions.
• Build your portfolio. Create a portfolio while you are attending school, so that it is full of work samples, awards, certificates, letters of recommendation, performance reviews, etc. by the time you graduate.
• Maximize your resources. Utilize the career services at the college or university where you are attending classes.

Following these simple straightforward principles and you are certain to secure a rewarding and lucrative position that leads to a fulfilling lifelong career.

Do you have burning career questions? Email us at alumnewseditor@mccombs.utexas.edu. Guest blogger and career coach Amber Travis-Ballinas will offer her advice to select readers in an upcoming post.