Fanni Munoz, Client Services Analyst

"Know what you are doing, enjoy what you are doing, and have a vision for where you want to go. Education is key to career growth."

When Fanni Munoz came to the United States from Peru in 1998, she had a Master’s degree in psychology and 10 years of counseling experience. Initially, she faced challenges translating her education and talents to a new career. She had to master English as a second language and establish work experience.

In 2000, Fanni joined UCSF as an Administrative Assistant I through Temporary Employment (TEP). Since then, she has worked hard, sought new assignments, and taken advantage of learning opportunities both on campus and in the community. Today, she enjoys her position as a Client Services Analyst and is on a path to reach her goals.

Learning
Fanni credits education as key to finding a satisfying position. "If you invest time and money in education, you will have more career opportunities." Although she had studied English in Peru, she wanted to improve her Business English so she took classes at City College. Reading the UCSF mission and vision and her department’s website helped her identify what to learn to be successful.

Fanni discovered the federal LiLa (Lifelong Learning Accounts) Program through an HR email and applied. "LiLa was the opportunity I was looking for and helped pay for my studies," she says. She took writing, active listening, and HR Fundamentals classes at UCSF and earned a Human Resources Certification from San Francisco State University. In the spring of 2008, Fanni testified before Congress about how the LiLa program helped her attain her career objectives.

Volunteering
Fanni volunteered for the Events Committee, where she met people and learned new skills. Fanni broadened her network with coworkers and others around campus. "They’ve been supportive of my work on my language skills and believe in me."

Fanni also volunteers for new projects at work to learn skills and demonstrate her abilities. "Even when I’m not sure I will be successful, I take on new opportunities. I have to take risks and not be intimidated by small things."

Welcoming Challenges
"I knew from the beginning it would take time and hard work to reach my goals. I love challenges so I try not to get stuck and to believe in myself." Fanni’s commitment, patience, and hard work have helped her overcome obstacles in her path.

"I like what I am doing now. I have had other jobs that I knew were not for me. Most people work to pay their bills but I find success by enjoying what I do and having a vision for where I want to go."

Advice
"The opportunities are out there. Take the time, do your research, and you will find ways to reach your career goals."

  • Identify what you need to learn to be successful.
  • Look for opportunities to reach your goals.
  • Keep your resume current and ask someone to review it for errors.
  • Build your network.
  • Provide excellent customer service.
  • Your computer skills are important so keep them up-to-date.
  • Use Development and Training; the classes are helpful and there’s lots of information on the website.