Seidman Alumni Board Spotlight - Joel Schick
Professional Journey Quick Facts:
- Graduated from Hope College in 2002 and then started as a Credit Analyst at Mercantile Bank from 2002-2004 before joining X-Rite in 2004 as an Inside Sales Rep.
- I started taking night classes at GVSU in 2002 for my MBA and did that consistently until my graduation in 2007.
- My goal was to be done with my MBA prior to having kids and I did it.
How has Seidman had a role in your journey?
X-Rite was very supportive of my MBA and the experience at GVSU allowed me to expand my abilities to continue to take on more responsibility in the business world.
When did you graduate?
MBA - 2007
Where are you from?
I grew up in Tecumseh, Michigan. Upon graduation, I lived in Kentwood for 5 years and Ada now for the last 13 years.
What do you do for fun?
Coach my kids, invest in sports training for my kids, golf, and spend time with my amazing wife. I spend a lot of time in gyms and on fields watching my kids compete.
Joel's Advice
"Don't force yourself to find the perfect job...it's not attainable. Gain some valuable sales experience even if you aren't interested in sales or marketing. Everyone in a business needs to be able to sell. The top of the profit and loss statement for any business starts with the Revenue line."
Tell Us More...
What has been the most significant professional outcome that came as a result of your GVSU degree from Seidman College?
Now running my own business at LGS (Leads Generate Sales). As a MBA graduate and member of the Seidman Alumni Board, I have met so many amazing leaders and business professionals. I wouldn't be where I am today without GVSU and the amazing people I've learned from.
If you could learn one new professional skill, what would it be and why?
Take the time to read more. I think it's a skill in itself to be able to stop and challenge yourself to read, learn, and grow. With 3 young kids, it is difficult to take time for yourself.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?
Good is the enemy of great. Be great at something.
If you could pick any job, what would it be?
College basketball coach