Preparing for a Career from Prison: A Roadmap to Success
# Preparing for a Career from Prison: A Roadmap to Success
The journey from incarceration to a fulfilling career is not merely a transition; it's a transformation. Having spent 26 years in federal prison, I understand the complexities involved in this process. Yet, I also know firsthand that with strategic planning and determination, success is within reach. This article will guide you through preparing for a career from prison, drawing on my experiences and insights gathered over decades.
## Define Success and Set Goals
The first step in preparing for a career from prison is defining what success means to you. During my early years of incarceration, I realized that I had to look beyond the walls and envision the life I wanted post-release. Success is subjective; for some, it might mean financial stability, while for others, it could mean personal growth or community contribution.
### Personal Story: My Definition of Success
In 1987, at the age of 23, I was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison. At first, it was overwhelming. But soon, I realized that I needed to redefine my life. For me, success meant becoming educated and contributing positively to society upon release. I set goals to earn an undergraduate degree and later a master's degree while incarcerated. This decision laid the foundation for my future career as an educator and consultant.
### Actionable Steps
- **Reflect on your values**: What kind of life do you want to lead post-incarceration? What roles do you want to play in your family, community, and workplace? - **Set SMART goals**: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals will provide clarity and direction. - **Break it down**: Divide your long-term goals into short-term targets. For instance, if acquiring a degree is your goal, start with enrolling in a course.
## Develop a Plan
After setting goals, the next step is developing a comprehensive plan. This plan should act as a roadmap, guiding you through incremental progress toward your career aspirations.
### Personal Story: My Roadmap
While serving time, I created a detailed plan to achieve my educational goals. I researched available programs and identified resources within the prison system that could aid my learning. My plan included daily study sessions, correspondence with external institutions, and setting timelines for completing each course.
### Actionable Steps
- **Research opportunities**: Identify educational programs or vocational training available in your facility. - **Allocate time wisely**: Prison life can be unpredictable. Create a flexible schedule that accommodates study time without conflicting with mandatory activities. - **Seek guidance**: Reach out to mentors or educational coordinators for advice on navigating available resources.
## Invest in Education and Skill Development
Education is a powerful tool for transformation. It not only equips you with knowledge but also demonstrates commitment and growth to future employers.
### Personal Story: Commitment to Education
I devoted much of my sentence to earning degrees. The education I received was instrumental in shaping my career post-release. Beyond formal education, I also engaged in self-directed learning through books and correspondence courses.
### Actionable Steps
- **Enroll in programs**: Take advantage of any educational programs offered within your facility. - **Utilize external resources**: Platforms like Prison Professors offer free learning resources that can supplement formal education. - **Continuous learning**: Even outside structured programs, dedicate time to reading and self-study to enhance your knowledge base.
## Build Tools, Tactics, and Resources
Preparation extends beyond education—it's about equipping yourself with the necessary tools and tactics for career success.
### Personal Story: Developing Resources
Throughout my incarceration, I amassed a library of books and materials that supported my learning journey. Networking with fellow inmates and educators also provided invaluable insights and resources.
### Actionable Steps
- **Gather materials**: Compile books and resources relevant to your career interests. - **Network strategically**: Connect with individuals who can offer advice or mentorship. - **Skill practice**: Whenever possible, engage in activities that allow you to practice skills relevant to your desired career.
## Document Your Efforts
Actions speak louder when documented. Creating a portfolio of your achievements showcases your dedication and progress.
### Personal Story: Building My Portfolio
I kept meticulous records of every course completed, certificate earned, and milestone achieved during my sentence. This portfolio played a crucial role in establishing credibility with potential employers post-release.
### Actionable Steps
- **Create a portfolio**: Document all educational achievements, certificates, and relevant experiences. - **Seek endorsements**: Ask mentors or educators for letters of acknowledgment that highlight your growth. - **Publish online**: Platforms like Prison Professors Talent allow you to showcase your progress publicly.
## Build a Support Network
A robust support network can provide guidance, advocacy, and opportunities for career advancement upon release.
### Personal Story: The Power of Connections
While incarcerated, I connected with educators who believed in my potential. These relationships provided moral support and opened doors for post-release opportunities.
### Actionable Steps
- **Foster relationships**: Build connections with fellow inmates, staff, and external educators who share similar goals. - **Participate in group activities**: Engage in group learning or community service projects to expand your network. - **Leverage technology**: Upon release, utilize social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field.
## Focus on Contribution
Demonstrating a willingness to contribute to your community or workplace reflects accountability and growth.
### Personal Story: Giving Back
During my incarceration, I volunteered as a tutor for other inmates. This experience not only enhanced my teaching skills but also reinforced my commitment to contribute positively to society.
### Actionable Steps
- **Volunteer**: Offer your skills or knowledge in any capacity available within the prison. - **Mentor others**: Share your experiences and insights with fellow inmates who are on similar paths. - **Engage in community service**: Participate in initiatives that benefit the prison community or beyond.
## Adopt a CEO Mindset
Approach your career preparation with a strategic mindset akin to running a business.
### Personal Story: Strategic Thinking
I treated my time in prison as an opportunity to build the foundation for my future. By adopting a CEO mindset, I managed my goals like projects—setting deadlines, measuring progress, and adjusting plans as needed.
### Actionable Steps
- **Define outcomes**: Clearly articulate what success looks like for you. - **Craft a strategic plan**: Develop a plan that bridges the gap between your current circumstances and future goals. - **Establish accountability**: Regularly review progress against milestones and adjust strategies as necessary.
## Reflective Questions and Call-to-Action
As you embark on this transformative journey from incarceration to career readiness, consider the following questions:
1. What does success look like for you? How can you align your daily actions with this vision? 2. Are there additional resources or support networks you can tap into? 3. How can you document your efforts more effectively? 4. Who can you reach out to for guidance or mentorship?
By reflecting on these questions and taking actionable steps outlined above, you're not just preparing for a career—you're redefining your future. Embrace this journey with determination and remember that transformation is possible even within the confines of prison walls.
Call-to-Action: Explore resources offered by organizations like Prison Professors that provide education, mentorship, and networking opportunities tailored specifically for those preparing for life after incarceration. Engage actively with these resources as you work towards building a successful career post-release.
— Michael Santos