Feature #13: Barbara Owens, Administrative Specialist II

 

Name: Barbara Owens

Current Job Position Title : Administrative Specialist II

Company Name: Arkansas Department of Education

Contact Information: keva_owens@hotmail.com
Special skills:
organization, summarizing documents, letter composition, dealing well with difficult personalities
Describe your job story:
While working night audit/housekeeping at a hotel, I kept watching the state website for job openings. I was called in for two interviews at different offices with ADE. I chose my current job over the other one
because it was a new division and I would be the first one to hold that particular job. Although I did not know it at the time, my pastor’s son had just taken a job there as well. My desk is at the very front
of the office, so it takes a listening ear, sympathetic smile, and a bright smile even when you want to cry to do what I do.
What did you want to be when you were a child/ teenager?
 As a child I wanted to “be” Whitney Houston, as a teenager I wanted to operate my own business or school.

Are doing your dream job?
The job is a dream job because I work with an awesome group of people and it is not a labor however it is not my dream job.
What do you like MOST about what you do?
I like when superintendents or consultants come in to the office and comment on how helpful I was on the phone, it’s like the relationship has been established through pleasant phone conversation.
What do you like the LEAST?
Office politics.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
Teaching in the classroom or in the church.
Are you happy with where you are in life?
I am happy to be a alive but not complacent.
What more do you want to do with your life?
 I want to graduate from school, start a youth program for girls that will expand to include boys, teach in public school, study God’s word
What drives/motivates you?
The Holy Spirit
What else do you do?
 I am a director’s assistant to Christie Yancy and also do some acting in the drama ministry.
What is your advice to those who are seeking employment and have no hope?
Be tenacious and proactive. Positions become available when you least expect it. Network, network, network. I found the radio to be a great source of info for job fairs. Never lose hope or be too proud to take that housekeeping or table waiting job as you continue to search for the open door to your career.