Peace Corps Alum Secures MSW and Job
We’ve all been there. You finish a major chapter in life... For Simon T., that puzzle involved not just one, but two high-stakes goals that required a strategic, phased approach: securing acceptance into a top Master of Social Work (MSW) program and finding meaningful, pre-program employment.
Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Simon to tackle this exact career pivot. Seeing a professional transition from "overwhelmed by dual deadlines" to "strategic and confident" is exactly why I do this work, and Simon’s story is a perfect example of what happens when you prioritize structured planning and professional clarity.
Before we teamed up, Simon was facing a hurdle many mid-career professionals know too well: The simultaneous pivot.
His challenge was twofold:
He was returning from two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Belize, which required translating his unique international experience into a competitive narrative for top-tier graduate programs.
He needed to find fulfilling work for the months before graduate school began, which meant managing a job search simultaneously with his application deadlines.
When faced with the situation, Simon wasn’t sure where to start. As Simon described it, he needed to make sure he put forward the best application while figuring out what he could do for work when he returned.
When Simon and I teamed up, we didn’t just create a to-do list; we built a foundation designed to support two major goals, one phase at a time. Our strategic approach included:
Top value added services ranked by Simon T.
What was the "game-changer" for Simon? According to him, it was the clarity provided by the structured strategy and the mock interview practice.
The structure helped him stay ahead of the curve:
"The strategy helped me stay organized to ensure I met my goals and any necessary deadlines. It helped me submit my grad school applications well before each school's deadline and secure employment."
And on preparation:
"Mal brainstormed several interview questions that could be asked by an employer, which gave me the structure to properly prepare for interviews and be ready for whatever question comes my way."
The transformation for Simon is a powerful reminder that strategic support isn't just about applying for jobs—it’s about total career clarity and confidence. Without the constant stress of disorganization, Simon was able to focus on achieving his goals by building a strong foundation with FRM Collective.
The Measurable Result?
Academic Win: Acceptance into five MSW programs, including his top choice.
Career Win: Meaningful employment secured before graduate school even starts.
Strategic Evolution: A structured timeline that reduced stress and ensured he never missed a deadline.
If you’re on the fence about whether professional coaching is worth the investment during a major career break or pivot, take it from Simon:
At the end of the day, success in a pivot isn't just about having the experience; it’s about having the right strategy to communicate its value. With the right structure and mentorship in place, you stop surviving your transition and start leading it.
We are so proud of the intentional and successful transition of Simon T. and cheers to a successful MSW program this upcoming fall! 🥂
Ready to plan your next successful pivot? If you’re feeling the weight of a career change or dual-goal process, you don’t have to navigate the transition alone. I support professionals to help identify a winning strategy and create a roadmap for success.
Click here to complete my intake form and book a free 30-minute consultation.
