Illinois State alumna Monica Fortune-Wilks ’95, M.S. ’97, human resource coordinator for McLean County Unit 5 schools, talked to Dr. Nancy Lind’s Professional Development class on developing your self-image.

Fortune-Wilks explained the importance of having error-free resumes and cover letters as well as being prepared for networking and interviews. She said that “first impressions matter” and every person you meet could be a potential employer.

Fortune-Wilks also encouraged students to ask for advice rather than asking for help as the outcomes are vastly different. She said if you ask for help, people will give you information and probably stop there, but if you ask them for advice, that shows respect for the person and makes them more likely to want to help you and go beyond just giving you information.

Lind is a professor in the Department of Politics and Government.