There's always something new to learn
Graduate Profile: Brian Skibinski
With more than 22 years of experience in the information technology field in the realm of education, Brian Skibinski came to Governors State University (GovState) to advance his career.
Naturally, Brian enrolled in the Information Technology master's program and found that his classes proved there were still exciting things to discover about the familiar field. He's looking forward to using his new knowledge to better serve students and educators in his role as Director of Technology at Summit Hill School District 161.
As Brian gears up for Commencement, he's also anticipating his role as Commencement speaker for the morning ceremony, an honor that he plans to pay forward by reminding his fellow grads to never lose sight of their passions in life.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to Governors State University?
Brian: I researched various university programs, both in person and online, and found GovState's program to offer a course selection that I that is interesting and exciting. I also found the program to be extremely affordable.
GovState Newsroom: How did it feel to be chosen as a Commencement speaker?
Brian: I am very humbled and extremely honored to be the commencement speaker knowing that I was only one of two people selected. When I wrote the speech, I wanted to be intentional to share past experiences, to emphasize that we all need to have passion for life and for our work and to commit to being lifelong learners.
GovState Newsroom: What song will always remind you of this time in your life?
Brian: Oh gosh. I have a wide range of musical tastes so I don't know if there is one specific song that symbolizes my time at GovState. Sometimes I would listen to specific albums or just bands.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Brian: I have been a technology director in education for 20 years. By earning my master's degree, my goal is to stay competitive in the job market and use it to help advance my career. I want to continue to serve educators and students. The course work in my master's program helped me to take a deeper dive into topics like cybersecurity and social engineering. Some of these courses also will allow me to earn various certifications. I hope that I can continue to grow and help as many students and educators as possible.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Brian: You need to find what you love, find your passion. Steve Jobs said “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.”
Regardless of your age, if you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. You will know when you find it. While it may not be your current role, you may find an opportunity to pivot, participate, or try something new that will lead you to your next step. So, keep looking until you find it.
Be a listener. Be curious. Ask questions. Follow your heart.