Sammy Yang

In layperson terms, what do you actually do at work?

21 years with the company, started as a call center rep, move to IT after getting my MBA, move to HR in 2012. 20 years Oracle database experience as developer/dba. Aspire event lead, on Great Dallas Boys and Girls Scholarship Committee since 2014.

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

to work in a field with your most strength and interest -- a very valuable advice from my elementary school teacher.

When did you get your first Big Break? How did you get it? How did it go?

when I got my MBA in 2000. it has changed my life completely.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

we all had our dreams when we were young. the most critical career advice would be to have a feasible/executable plan. Earlier the better.

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

I didn't actually pick my career, what I did was to take the challenge when opportunity knocks. I called myself a professional student, not a professional trainee. I have been studying/developing knowledge/skillset all my life. When I found a job met 50-70% of my knowledge/skillset, I would apply for it because it's almost impossible to find a job would fit me perfectly.

How did you start building your network?

I am a longtime AT&T Aspire volunteer. the more I got involved, the wider my network built. I have known more of my colleagues at work, more teachers and students. My network has helped me greatly not only on my career, but also on both my kids college life and their career now.

What is the biggest challenge you had to overcome to get to where you are now professionally? How did you overcome it?

that was in 2012 when I moved from IT to HR. it was indeed the largest gap in my knowledge/skillset. I am so grateful that I have been mentored by so many great leaders and experts. another lesson learned is to be humble, open minded, positive attitude, and team player.

Did anyone ever oppose your career plans when you were young or push you in a direction you did not want to go?

I was lucky enough to stay on my own career track

What is it like when your job gets tough?

it's all about the mindset. the job will never be easy, so below attributes will be my recommendation to have. Positive attitude, open minded, humble, team player.

When you were a student, did you do anything outside of school to build skills or get knowledge that has helped your career?

yes. I always keep my interest level high outside school activities. It had helped me greatly when I shift my career from one field to another.