March 4, 2021
Fallon Thomas made her move to Community Liaison for the New Haven Hiring Initiative in 2020. Follow her inspiring career path leading her to Yale and learn how she made the most of resources and opportunities within.
How did you begin your career (either at Yale or before)?
I started my career working in Higher Ed as the Parking & Transportation Coordinator for Auxiliary Services while pursuing my graduate degree at Loyola University Chicago. When I returned home, I worked as the Records and Data Integrity Manager for New Haven Job Corps before pursing an opportunity at Yale via the New Haven Hiring Initiative and New Haven Works.
Tell us about your current role at Yale University?
I am the Community Liaison for the New Haven Hiring Initiative. I am responsible for providing education pertaining to Yale’s hiring process, NHHI pipelines and events, and to source potential applicants via community engagement in New Haven.
What do you like most about your work?
I love to engage with my community. Prior to obtaining this role, I was already involved in a few community org and initiatives. It is my dream job! As a proud New Haven resident, I am thrilled to be able to strengthen the relationship with Yale and the surrounding community. I am totally committed to building a stronger New Haven!
What skills, abilities, and personal attributes do you think are essential to success in your job/this field?
Working in this field requires dedication, an understanding of both the university and community, and strong people skills. The ability to listen, problem solve, and create effective modes of communication are very essential to this role.
How does your job affect or compliment your general lifestyle?
My position compliments my lifestyle very well. As someone who engages in the community during my spare time, I am able to build upon those community relationships professionally. I leverage existing relationships to assist with identified tasks.
How did your time at Yale shape your career trajectory?
I initially came to the university with a very narrow career objective. It was through networking, my time spent in Yale Temporary Staffing Services, and great mentorship which allowed me to create a career plan with multiple options identified through my transferrable skills.
If other than your own, what steps would you recommend one take to prepare to enter this field?
I suggest becoming involved inside Yale via Affinity Groups and collaborative initiatives across campus. Also, I would establish networks outside the university with civic clubs, cultural organizations and local businesses.
If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself?
Absolutely, my first position as a Senior Administrative Assistant with YTSS allowed me to see the university from several angles. I always promote the department as the best way to enter the university as an employee. I also became very involved with the Affinity Groups; I subscribed to many of their newsletters and would attend events that piqued my interest. From those experiences, I was able to create a career network of diverse individuals from all levels of employment.
Are you involved in any other part of the Yale community?
I am the former Co-Chair and now serve as the Social Justice Committee Co-Chair of Yale’s African American Affinity Group. I have also Co-Chaired the Yale New Haven Cultural Block party planning committee. I have sat on professional development panels discussing career networks and navigating Yale’s job families.
What does being a working woman at Yale mean to you?
Being a working woman at Yale means to create and execute a career plan, network strategically to support your goals, and to mentor other women to achieve their goals considering your experiences.
What advice would you give women just beginning their careers at Yale?
To become invested in their current role, seek professional development opportunities to enhance your current skill set. Network by joining committees within your department and broadly across the university, Affinity Groups are a great resource. Create a career plan and be intentional in networking and pursing future opportunities.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am grateful for my Yale experience. My journey is a true testament of pipelines and communities working. I was provided an opportunity via the New Haven Hiring Initiative and New Haven Works. Once employed, I took advantage of the many resources Yale provides to support and enhance your work life. I was always intrigued by the stories of longevity here at the university and took heed to the advice given by those who had come before me.
Do you know someone who has recently made a move within Yale? Send suggestions to mckenzie.granata@yale.edu
Yale staff promotions are regularly posted here: https://your.yale.edu/staff-member-promotions-retirements
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Internal