Mentor Interview!

Company: The Citizens Diplomacy Council of San Diego
Mentor: Cath DeStefano

Please tell me a little about yourself.
She grew up in Niles, MI and has been in San Diego for forty years. She was married for the first time at 59 years old. She has been self employed as an on the road speaker from 1978-2005 and has traveled to 49 states and internationally.
What is a typical work day like?
Cath describes her average work day, and the word that comes to mind is all encompassing. She drew her typically work day out so please see above diagram.
What are the main duties and responsibilities?
Please see above diagram.
Tell me about this organization/company.
CDCSD started as an all volunteer organization and then progressed. They have been affiliated with the State Department for over thirty years.
How is this organization structured?
Please see above diagrams.
What is the purpose of this organization?
The CDCSD's mission states: "To Promote Global Understanding through Dialogue"
How long have you worked here?
It will be Cath's 5th year this May.
Why did you choose to work here?
She came in "off the road" and was supposed to be an interim director and then settled down in San Diego.
What skills and training are necessary for your position?
Initiative, people skills, the ability to see the big picture and do the details
How did you acquire these skills? Through school? On the job?
Through teaching
What qualifications do employees need to be successful here?
Willingness to do new things, honesty, brightness
Do you consider a career in this area satisfying? In what ways?
Yes, she gets to meet the world without leaving San Diego
Do you find there are additional rewards beyond money in this career?
Yes, she gets to make a difference in the course of things
How important is getting along with others in this career?
a 10 out of 10
What other personality traits, skills, or knowledge are important here?
Being a "jack of all trades"
What advice do you have about working here?
Be willing
What other advice do you have for me?
Be curious and ask questions!