Seeking Hiring Supervisor Insights
I currently work as an Accounting clerk in school finance and aspire to pursue my bachelor’s degree. However, due to our family’s circumstances, it will be about two years before I can begin my studies.
I recently shared my educational goals with my supervisor, the Director of Business, which led to an interesting discussion. I’ve been considering online options like WGU because of their flexibility and affordability. However, I was advised that they wouldn’t hire someone with a degree in Accounting or finance from WGU and suggested looking into WSU or CWU instead.
My question is for hiring supervisors: how much does the choice of school influence your hiring decisions? Is the school’s name a significant factor in evaluating a candidate’s resume, and could it be a dealbreaker?
I want to make an informed decision, as I don’t want to invest time and money in a degree that might not hold value in the job market. Additionally, I’ve found that the online courses offered by WSU and CWU don’t provide the same level of flexibility for studying, testing, and completing coursework. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
One response
It sounds like you’re navigating an important decision for your career path, and it’s great that you’re considering your options carefully. From a hiring supervisor’s perspective, the reputation of the school and the degree can play a role, but it’s not the only factor that influences hiring decisions.
Reputation and Accreditation: While some employers may have biases toward certain schools, what’s most important is the accreditation of the institution and the quality of the program. WGU is regionally accredited, which is essential. Many employers recognize this, even if some individuals may not.
Practical Experience: Real-world experience often carries significant weight. If you have relevant work experience and skills that align with the position, that can offset concerns about the school’s reputation. Highlighting your practical skills could make a difference.
Skills Over School Name: Often, hiring supervisors are more focused on what skills you bring to the table rather than the name of the school on your degree. If you can demonstrate strong technical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, it can be as valuable as the school’s reputation.
Networking and Fit: Sometimes, who you know and how you present yourself can be just as important. Building relationships within your field can help open doors, regardless of where your degree comes from.
Future Growth: Consider where you see yourself in the future. If a specific school’s program aligns better with your career goals or if you plan to network within that institution, it may be worth considering them despite the flexibility challenges.
Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh the flexibility and cost of the program against what you’ve learned from your supervisor’s feedback. While their opinion is valuable, remember that you need to choose a path that feels right for you in the long run. Good luck with your decision!