You're Doing What With Your Major?

Spotlight on UK Alumna Laura Minton

 Major:  Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics (2000)

Current Career: I currently work as an International Sales Manager for one of the top global logistics providers based in Copenhagen, Denmark.  I focus on new business development and assist small to mid-size companies develop more efficient international supply chains.

Please provide a short summary of your career path from college to present.

Along with many others, it was a love of horses that drew me to Kentucky.  Thus, upon graduating, I had the opportunity to work for an equine nutrition company managing their international shipments.  Through connections in the Equine industry and experience gained, I was relocated to Los Angeles to manage an office for a reputable international horse transport company.  After several years of transporting horses internationally… from breeding stallions, to movie horses, US Equestrian team, and many notable others, I came to a turning point where a decision was made to keep horses as a hobby instead of a career.  With years of international logistics experience, and many connections that were made along the way, I easily transitioned into a sales profession for a leading international logistics provider.  Every new assignment in my professional career has allowed me to gain more valuable skills, knowledge, and connections, which have enabled me to continue professional growth in this ever changing job market.

Describe your best boss/supervisor.

My best boss was a Regional Sales Manager I had some years back… his name was Jeff, and Jeff’s job was to make sure I was a successful at mine.  He was so much more than a manager, he was one of my many mentors I have met along my professional journey.  Jeff was a very positive and enthusiastic individual who taught me about the “wheel of life”. 

This wheel of life story was told to me once, but is something that will stick with me for a lifetime.  Basically Jeff explained that life is made of many facets (example: career, family, friends, relationships, etc).  Each facet of life is just like a spoke of a wheel.  ‘You’ are the center of that wheel and can control each spoke.  In order to make the wheel of life turn, each spoke must be the same length.  Hence you must put equal time and effort into each spoke.  As soon as one spoke gets too long or too short, the wheel will not turn smoothly.

What do you do for networking and professional development?

Networking is a must for building your own pipeline of contacts.  Residing in Southern California, there are many different professional networking organizations and functions to attend.  To name a few suggestions: your local UK Alumni club, Rotary, and National Association of Professional Women. 

One of my suggestions for professional development is Toastmasters International.  Many people associate Toastmasters with public speaking, but it is so much more than just speaking.  There are many leadership and life skills (both personal and professional) that you can learn from this organization.  Becoming a member several years ago to initially help with my sales, and this organization has proved so much more than what I ever expected.  It is highly recommended to find a chapter in your local area and be a guest at their meeting to learn more about how to get involved.  I wish someone gave me this advice when I just graduated college.

How would you describe a successful job search strategy?

In my experience with job searching, my advice would be to network.  It’s more about Who you know then What you know.  Of course, you’ll need to be able to live up to your resume and experience… but it’s meeting that one person who can make a connection for you, open a door, or is willing to give you a chance.

What career advice would you give to students and alumni?

Advice I would give regarding careers is to never stop learning.  Knowledge is power and will make you marketable.  I learned this from my 92 year old mentor, friend, and fellow Toastmaster, who always keeps surprising me with the things she’s still accomplishing in life.  Take a class, get involved in an organization, learn a new skill… Never Stop Learning! 

What I know now that I didn’t know as a student:

If I had $1 for everything that I know now that I didn’t know as a student, I could retire!  J

Favorite UK memory/class etc.:

Going back to a previous answer of mine about meeting someone who will make a connection for you, open a door, or give you a chance… This person was Dr. Loys Mather (retired).

When I was first thinking about transferring to UK from a smaller college, Dr. Mather took time to meet with me and helped in setting up a plan to make my transfer to UK smooth and easy.  Thus I graduated from this great university!  I owe much thanks and appreciation to my old professor and advisor, Dr. Loys Mather, for taking the time that day to steer me in the right direction.