When I finished school at age 21 with a degree in accounting, I was unsure of what I wanted to do; however, I soon discovered that accounting was not it. After working on many different ventures over the years, I realized that I loved real estate development and the fulfillment of being involved with a project from start to finish.
The experience I gained starting a real estate development company with a friend, coupled with recent classes at The Arioch Center @ Wentworth and going on informational interviews, helped me understand that it would be most beneficial for me to earn a degree in project management. Simron Realty, LLC. has become so much more than a side job or a hobby—it is my passion and provides balance in my life. Despite the enjoyment of running Simron Realty and experiencing the company’s success, I know I need my degree if I also want to work for a construction management company.
When it comes down to it, I like to learn. It is really helpful to feel like I am in a community that cultivates what I do, as it helps with the learning process. I believe Wentworth fosters entrepreneurs because the school understands the entrepreneurial mindset.
I learned a lot about myself by reevaluating my career and going back to school, and I have also learned a lot from my kids. My daughter, who is in college, helped translate material from my introduction to computer literature class into layman’s terms, and my son, a recent high school graduate, showed me how to use a scientific calculator! My experiences have taught my kids a few lessons, too, as it puts their studies in perspective when they see how hard I work with school, my business, and a second job as a payroll manager for a small Boston-based business.
The people I have met through The Arioch Center, combined with the learning environment, have encouraged me to explore my possibilities and find the right career fit for me. I still say I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up?…?but I’m starting to get a better idea.
–Simone Barnett, BPM ’10
