Doctors, firefighters, astronauts…there are so many careers and opportunities out there for us. It may be hard to sift through them all, but new Career Center Specialist Kelvin Coggins is here to help.
Coggins comes to WS with a lot of experience under his belt. He previously worked in the admissions offices at University of Phoenix and Everest College. Who better to advise WS students with college advice, than a former admissions worker?
“[I help students] by talking to them and asking questions to help me figure out what their passion or long term goal is,” said Coggins, “My job is to figure out which colleges or careers mirror their interests.”
If students don’t recognize Coggins in person yet, they will definitely recognize him from his e-mails. Coggins is notorious for his helpful e-mails, which provide students with ideas for internships, scholarships and other ideas. Daily communication informs students about college fairs, college visits and jobs, as well.
“When I was applying for jobs on my own it was frustrating because not many people want to hire a 16/17 year old,” said senior Daniel Walters, “The jobs he emailed fit in with [my] school and had good pay, but they were also looking to hire high school students.”
Coggins is continuing to connect with students through other activities as well. This year, for example, he will be helping out with the girls’ varsity basketball team. Coggins has plenty of experience from playing during his college years at Coastal Carolina University and Florida Gulf Coast University. After college, he went on to play semi-professional basketball in Ireland and Holland.
“I’m excited to work with the players. They’re a good team with good players and I’m excited to give my input,” said Coggins.
He has already attended a practice, and had an opportunity to provide feedback and take the reins for a few aspects of the practice.
“He has only been to one practice so far but I know he is a personal basketball instructor so I am excited to see how he improves our skill set,” said junior Gabi Carley, “He led a tiring drill which helped our conditioning and he seems like he relates well to young people.”
Even though Coggins has only been with WS for a couple of months, he is already getting involved with student activities and made a difference in Career Center communications.
“I love WS. I get along great with the students and faculty,” said Coggins, “I have a great time here.”