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Career Change Testimonials

People Are Talking About VocationVacations® Career Mentorship Experiences!

“I found VocationVacations to be an excellent way to immerse myself in a different world for 2-3 days. My VocationVacation took me to Boise, Idaho for Private Investigating with Mollie Carman and Valerie Agosta of Hanady Investigations. I was a private investigator from minute one! I expected a teacher-student experience but was surprised at my level of involvement in day-to-day cases. I spent time in vehicles with informants, did video surveillance, and actually had a face-to-face meeting with someone being investigated for fraud with the purpose of gathering information! I would encourage anyone to drop the doubt and try a VocationVacation. Since it's only 2-3 days, there's no excuse to not give it a try - it could change your life.” 
Rob Smith, Paulsboro, NJ
Private Investigator Vocationer

“Sarah’s energy, professionalism and encouragement made this a great experience. I came away feeling that I can do this!"
Gretchen Giles, Delray Beach, FL
Chocolatier Vocationer

"If I had to sum up my experiences in the past few months, I'd say that once I learned to confront my fears, everything else fell into place. VV was the catalyst that started this process for me."
Bob Paterno, Dallas, TX
Former Electric/Systems Engineer turned Song Writer after taking a VocationVacation

"I can't tell you how satisfied I have been with my investment in VocationVacations. The onsite opportunity I experienced at Crewest Gallery in LA during my VocationVacation was most inspiring. Spending two days with ManOne, I learned the business behind custom mural rendering. My Mentor, ManOne, generously shared his time and talents, openly relating business experiences and the processes involved with finalizing a job. He shared great ideas for self-promotion. In addition, we practiced actual aerosol painting techniques. My reward was his gift of the canvas we worked on as he interpreted my business name Jabiru.

Since my VocationVacation, I've opened my own studio, printed new business cards, and have a website (www.jabirudesign.com). I have much more confidence now as I negotiate jobs with clients. And as ManOne suggested, I am networking with other local artists. I am also alert to opportunities for promoting myself and remember ManOne's advice that any experience can lead to possibilities.”
Paula Lewis, Oregon City, OR
Muralist/Gallery Owner Vocationer

"My VocationVacation was like going to Disneyland! Learning the cake decorating techniques, including the manipulation and creative design of chocolate, helped me simplify my own existing process. And I had such a wonderful time working with and learning from my Mentors, Jack and Iva, that I was crying when I left."
Margo Hinson, North Hollywood, CA
Chocolatier/Pastry Chef Vocationer

When I saw the massive list of vocations on the VocationVacations website, I crossed my fingers as I scrolled down the list and then yelled in excitement when I saw Private Investigator, my dream job! I could not wait to sign up. Over the years, I had dappled in investigating but I really wanted to see what the pros could show me. I not only wanted to learn, I wanted to share this with my cousin, Carol, who lives in Montana. So Carol and I headed to Boise, Idaho to learn from the best – the Spy Moms, Valerie Agosta and Mollie Carman.

Our adventure was amazing! No fake cases, only real, live investigations. It is not about being nosey and finding out information on people, it is about finding the truth for those who are being duped! That is why it’s my dream job.Valerie & Mollie worked side-by-side teaching us about tracking devices and the information obtained; online background checks; installing a surveillance camera in a child neglect case; and the best was going through the garbage of a suspected cheating spouse and finding incriminating evidence. All of this and much more in just two-days. All I can say is, “WOW – WOW – WOW, what a weekend.”

Valerie & Mollie were the best mentors you could have and lots of fun to boot!Now what, you ask? My ultimate goal after experiencing this great VocationVacation is to become a licensed Private Investigator. Illinois has strict guidelines in obtaining a license but I am well down the path of making that happen upon my retirement from my current career.

Thanks, VocationVacations! What a wonderful way to spend a vacation – learning something new!"
Sue Anderson
Mendota, Illinois

"My VocationVacation experience is one that will stay with me forever. I had the opportunity to learn about and work with Mustangs, two of which were weanlings. Gerry, my Mentor taught me the techniques to work with these wonderful creatures. I came away with confidence that I could adopt and train a young mustang on my own. This is something I've wanted to pursue, but had not been sure that I could do it. Now, I just need to find our retirement property and get started!!! The experience also helped me get to the point of moving past my grief over the death of my own horse, and I'm now deep in the process of finding his replacement."
Susie Brown, San Marino, CA
Horse Trainer Vocationer

"AMAZING!!! What a complete package, from start to finish, including the coaching sessions. I couldn't wait to roll up my sleeves and ‘dig in’ while working side-by-side with Bridgette Raes and her clients. My mentor was so knowledgeable and easy-going, and she encouraged me to ask questions (which I had plenty of!). I had the instant gratification and benefit of her feedback and expertise. Bridgette was extremely informative regarding the financial and start-up aspects of the business too. On top of all that.....she also managed to make it fun! I had a BLAST!! Thank you VocationVacations®! My VocationVacations® was the first, giant step for me toward creating the life I want. It was incredibly motivating and made me see that I CAN do this!"
Lorraine Cestone, Long Island, NY
Style Expert Vocationer

Thanks to my experience with Vocation Vacations in 2005, I am pleased to report I have taken the plunge and now work as a full-time professional photographer!
Dan Chaffee, Kansas City, MO
Photographer Vocationer

"I have a passion for taking a different look at my life (yes, even at 70 years old!) because of my VocationVacations experience. I thank your organization (and my dear wife who arranged it for me) for giving me this opportunity for a lasting birthday memory."
Jim Franklin, Port Townsend, WA
Brew Master Vocationer






"My VocationVacations® was an incredible career-immersion experience! My expectations were vastly exceeded in terms of the quality of the interactions and the "all access" way I was welcomed onto the Brave Street television production team. Not only did I not expect to have so many immediate hands-on opportunities, I was also genuinely thunder-struck with the way every single person on the team welcomed me into the fold as if I were a Brave Street lifer! My VocationVacations® gave me the opportunity to experience, first-hand, the reality of a television producer, to ask the questions I had been dying to ask in every informational interview, and gave me the tools and knowledge to further my career exploration. I can think of no better gift for the new graduate, the retiree, or anyone contemplating a mid-life career course correction. VocationVacations® is the best career ‘speed-dating’ money can buy!"
Sue Burton-Kirdahy, Boston, MA
Televison Producer Vocationer

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank VocationVacations® for the experience of a lifetime! My experience with Gerry Thompson and the Kiger Mustangs at SpringWater Ranch in Oregon was better than I could have imagined…The four days I spent with Gerry Thompson and his horses could not have been more perfect. Watching him work with the horses, learning about the history of the Kiger Mustang, and receiving personal riding lessons all helped make the experience unforgettable. His experience and knowledge is extensive, and his way of working with the horses is as much "therapy" for the human as it is for the animal! The trail rides in the beautiful Oregon mountains were safe, yet challenging… I never expected to be able to ride that well in such a short time. I was exposed to everything from the routine of feeding, grooming, tacking and riding to discussions about breeding, trailering and endurance racing. I would recommend this VocationVacation to ANYONE who has an interest in horses - whether they’re a novice wanting to find out if they would like to own a horse or an experienced owner who just wants to go to the "next level" of companionship with their horse. Now I know that someday I WILL have a horse of my own. Thank you again for the wonderful experience."
Connie Madison, Roseville, MN
Horse Trainer Vocationer (a gift from her husband)

"….I had a great time on my VocationVacations® at Stone Wolf Vineyards. Linda did a great job of getting me involved in all aspects of the projects they were working while I was there. I would highly recommend the Stone Wolf trip to anyone that is interested in a Vintner VocationVacations®."
Andrew Mason, Redmond, WA
Wine Maker Vocationer

"VocationVacations® rocks! What a great way to possibly work your fantasy job plus get a vacation. I loved every minute of my trip. I had an awesome time doing my Wedding Coordinator ‘job.’ I learned so much to help me in the future with my plans. The whole process was simple and fun. My mentor Mary Dann was fantastic! She was so attentive to me and made sure I really worked to get the most out of my experience. I really felt part of her team, and she taught me some of her tricks. I've been telling everyone about it and look forward to doing another dream vocation."
Ricky Bradford, Mobile, AL
Wedding Coordinator Vocationer

"It was the best gift I’ve ever given him."
Gail Haskett, Vancouver, WA
Gave VocationVacations® Brew Master package as a gift to her husband, Steve

"VocationVacations has helped me make the move from being a happy enough international banker to a really, really happy dog trainer. I still can't help but smile when I say that...There's just no way I would have had the imagination or the courage to make this shift had it not been for the experience of VocationVacations and the encouragement of the Mentors and the Career Coach I worked with through VocationVacations."
David Ryan, Rye, NH
Dog Trainer and Dog Daycare Owner Vocationer


After spending two days with my VocationVacations mentor, I decided to pursue my dream job as a concierge. I did it! I’ve now transitioned from the music industry to the hospitality industry. This is an example of what a VocationVacation can do to help pave the way.
Corazon Chacon, New York City
Hotelier Vocationer

I see the starting point for my dream now and the process necessary to get it going!
John Lenzi, Bronx, NY
Restaurateur Vocationer

I found my dream job on vacation!
Toni Cory, Mt. Pleasant, IA
Dog Daycare Owner Vocationer

I had one of the best days of my life. It ranked right up there with my wedding day.
Matt Berberich, Lombard, IL
Brew Master Vocationer

They always say to do something you truly love instead of going through life just making a living.
Gynna Bayle, Torrance, CA
Wine Retailer Vocationer

Like many people, I went down a different career path than what I originally dreamed. I always thought I'd be in TV or write for a newspaper.
Jennifer McGilloway, West Chester, PA
TV Producer Vocationer

Becoming a baker seems doable to me now!
Lea Chadwell, Winston-Salem, NC
Baker Vocationer

“Lecia was wonderful. We really hit it off great. She showed me everything I wanted to learn and gave me lots of hands-on experience with chocolate. I now have the confidence and experience to know I can do this.”
Anne Ballantine, Newbury, VT
Chocolatier Vocationer
  
“I knew I would learn a lot, but was surprised and excited to have a clear, specific list of actions steps to take away from this experience. I initially thought I wanted to do travel writing, but after Ron asked several questions and suggested video would be a better fit for me, I saw that it was.  This is something I would not have thought of on my own.”
Beth Kearns, Lakewood, CO                              
Travel Writer Vocationer 
                                               
“From the moment we met, and my introduction to the scout for the Housten Astros, I knew I was in for an amazing experience. My VocationVacation certainly increased and affirmed the direction I want to go professionally.  It will be important for me to create a two to three year timeline with goals and action steps. Due to my VocationVacation, I realize I can make my dream a reality.  I fully enjoyed my entire experience.  Mike's hospitality and welcoming environment was evident during my entire two days.”
Ken Cascone, Kingwood, TX                                
Sports Announcer Vocationer
                        
“Dawn and Dave gave me an incredible hands-on, behind-the-scenes
experience even though the bakery was really busy.  They took so much
time to answer my questions and made me feel really welcome. I learned
a ton about what it really takes to run a successful food business
and felt especially lucky to observe the operations of a bakery where
the owners treat each employee with respect and professionalism. Plus,
I helped make (and sample!) red velvet cupcakes, blueberry muffins,
and pumpkin whoopie pies."
Cindy Meyers, San Francisco, CA
Baker Vocationer

“I learned a lot about the idea process between a client and the architect and found it interesting watching the interaction between a client, the architect and the design. Over the two days, I really enjoyed working on a model from a drawing while I was in the office.  I now have a better sense of how I would like to bring architecture into my life. “
Jeffrey Gauthier, Portland, OR
Architect Vocationer

“Kim’s overview of her business planning process, voice-overs, mixing, audio engineering and her incredible, positive energy and enthusiasm were phenomenal.  Her openness to share every aspect of her business leaves no question unanswered.  It’s very clear Kim has a passion for what she does, and her positive energy is a true inspiration to the vocationer.  As a vocationer, you not only get to “live the dream” as it were, but Kim gives you the tools and guidance to start making the dream happen for you.”
Trevor C., Nashville, TN                            
Voice-Over Artist Vocationer

“The candidness of the mentor and staff about all aspects of the business, including the operations, equipment and key software to use, increased my interest in moving forward.   I now feel that I am going into this with open eyes, and I am finally doing the right thing and what I want to do.”
Donna Hoffman, Lakewood, CO                          
Dog Daycare Owner Vocationer

“I had no idea there was so much that went on behind the scenes of a hotel. I learned a great deal from seeing all of the staff and what they do. I was encouraged I could start at the front desk and move up to manager in a hotel. Nabil was amazing. I learned so much from watching his management style. He had a wonderful way of dealing with his employees and the clients of the hotel."
Michele Dunkel, Boston, MA                         
Hotel General Manager Vocationer                  

"It was incredible. I didn't want to leave.  I loved being in the kitchen up to my elbows in chocolate.  I was amazed at the culture there.  Jack has people who have worked for him for 15 years, which is unheard of in this kind of business.  It's because he treats them so well.  He hugs everyone every morning.”
Faye Gorne, Portland, OR                             
Chocolatier  Vocationer
                          
“Ron made it so easy to help me figure out how to get into the travel writing business. He shared many incredible resources from both the travel writing and photography prespectives.  His knowledge represents all aspects of the field of travel writing.  Ron is simply amazing.”
Glenn Havelock, Basking Ridge, NJ
Travel Writer Vocationer
                     
“I had an amazing experience at Larson Family Winery.  My mentor, Caroline, was informative and encouraged me to have a hands-on experience.  I participated in many of the activities that pertain to the process of wine making and learned a lot during my two days.  The permanent stains of Merlot and Cabernet on the clothing I wore will always be a representation of this great and incredibly valuable experience.”
Janice Bissonnette, San Diego, CA
Winemaker Vocationer

“The Pink Cupcake mentors were warm and welcoming. They are passionate about their craft and enthusiastic about sharing that passion. Although I was a clear novice, they encouraged me with patient guidance to get right in and start helping out. I learned so much about professional baking and the bakery business. By the end of my
VocationVacation, I was exhausted, but I loved every minute of it! This experience completely exceeded my expectations.  It has energized me and clarified my goals and expectations.  I gained a much better idea of what I want to do as a baker and the confidence to do it!”
Lisa Kaplan, Vermillion, OH
Baker Vocationer

“Wayne and Pam were fantastic mentors. I learned so much more than I anticipated.  It was the best decision I have made in terms of what I see myself eventually doing in my next career. My desire and interest has grown, and I'm very excited to know it can be done where I live. I'm even thinking about ways I can incorporate dog grooming and training as part of my dog day care facility.”
Amy McCune, Fort Mill, SC
Dog Daycare Owner Vocationer

“I had a fabulous VocationVacation, and my mentor was beyond great. He answered all of my questions and taught me the hands-on steps of running the business - which is what I wanted to know.”
Donna N., San Diego, CA
Chocolatier Vocationer

“Jay Miller clearly loves his job and his enthusiasm permeates the entire organization.  He is a warm and gracious host and gave me a real sense of what is involved in operating a successful minor league ballpark.   I came away still dreaming about baseball and with the recognition that my leadership and management skill sets are transferable across industries.”
Anita O’Brien, Watertown, MA
Baseball Team General Manager Vocationer

“Mike was fantastic.  Unbelievable!  I was to a point of being overwhelmed with joy and excitement with what I was learning and experiencing.  I had no idea I was to be integated into so much of what Mike does as a basesball announcer. Throughout my two days with Mike, he would always tell me never, ever give up on my dream(s). I walked away from my experience fully knowing that I'm capable of not only going after my dream, but living it as well. "I can do this” is my new mantra.”
Matt Pagano, Stone Mountain, GA
Baseball Announcer Vocationer

“I took away a number of insights:  clarity of  the day to day operations; what it would take financially to start my own business; an understanding of the distribution part of the business, inventory, and break even points.  Beth shared with me how she got started and what her challenges were.  Beth didn't sugar coat anything.  My VocationVacation increased my interest and passion.  I know I can actually do it!”
Lisa Pearce, Aliso Viejo, CA
Wine Bar Owner & Retailer Vocationer

“The entire Vocation Vacation was great.  I learned a lot from my mentor who was knowledgeable and shared helpful information from his own experience. The VocationVacation both strengthened my desire and made it seem more doable. Some gray areas were clarified. I feel more prepared and confident.”
Sabrina, Brooklyn, New York
Coffeehouse Owner Vocationer

“Let me first start off by saying the VocationVacations concept and overall program is an excellent idea to provide prospective entrepreneurs the opportunity to be immersed in their dream profession prior to actually committing to it.  In my case, I chose the Brew Master program with Hinterland Brewery. 

My Brew Master mentor at Hinterland was Joe Karls.  Joe’s extensive knowledge of the brewing process and industry along with his great attitude made the experience very educational as well as enjoyable.  Being a home brewer for over 16 years I thought I knew what it would be like to be a commercial brew master.  I must admit that being immersed in the process gave me an entirely new perspective of what it would be like to be a brew master of my own brewery.  The experience I received from this day was priceless.  Even if I am unable to realize a brew master profession, my experience from this adventure was well worth it.  Joe provided insights on some basic process improvements that have had a positive impact on the overall yield and quality of my home brews.   The bottom line is the day I spent with Joe was awesome, and I feel anyone interested in pursuing their dream career should absolutely consider the
VocationVacations program, it is well worth the cost and effort.  After the adventure I left with a renewed excitement of starting my own microbrewery and now have a much better idea of where to start and what to expect.”
Scott Marshall, Phoenix, AZ
Brew Master Vocationer 

“I never realized the nose has a memory, and there is a proper way to smell fragrances. Blending fragrances and distinguishing one from another was fascinating. Learning about the differences between commercial and custom developed products helped me better understand marketing aspects and the business in general. This was not only a wonderful experience but an exciting adventure.”
Karen Uhlig, Lebanon, PA
Perfumer Vocationer

“Danette was extremely open and helpful (as was her staff) which enabled me to get tremendous value out of the experience.  Danette even shared her business plan with me which was unexpected.  I found many of my ideas and thoughts about getting into this business were validated which made the experience very worthwhile.”
Lauree Nakata, Honolulu, HI
Dog Daycare Owner and Dog Trainer

“Seeing the process from start to finish was motivating. The best part was I got to see eight episodes at different stages of production and the combining of these different stages.  My mentor let me participate and get hands-on experience which was very exciting. It reinforced that this is possible for me. Reading the final chapter of Brian's book, Test-Drive Your Dream Job – A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding and Creating the Work You Love inspired me to move forward because it helped me outline the next steps of action.”
Paulom Mistry, Brooklyn, New York
Music Producer Vocationer

“Dean created a VocationVacation that allowed me to learn more than I ever thought possible while creating a warm and fun environment. My favorite part of the VV was that my pages and pages of questions were all answered in conversation.  There was no “formal” or "corporate" feel to the VV so I was able to learn while thoroughly enjoying myself.  I took away an idea of what I want to do in my mind's eye and can actually see it and feel it in physical form because of my VV experience and because of Dean.”
Stacy McGranor, Dublin, OH
Yoga Studio Owner Vocationer

“Kim was the real thing. She covered every aspect of what I needed to know. I left feeling that this was possible, I can really do it, and that voice-over work can be done in the way I want to do it - working out of my home.”
Mary Dingman, Trinidad, CO
Voice-Over Artist Vocationer

“My mentor, Ron DeStefano, was fantastic. I couldn't believe how incredibly organized he was. I have to say, in all of my years of professional work, Ron is the kindest person I have ever met. He was so nurturing and caring   I now realize there is more to life than what I'm currently engaged in, both personally and professionally. I felt my whole "Being" come alive during my experience.  That was new for me.”
Sandy Ryan, Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Actor Vocationer

“Ron Stern was absolutly magnficent.  I loved every minute of my experience. He was the perfect mentor for me. I needed structure, Ron provided the structure.  Ron had an agenda, I followed his agenda, every sinlge step.   Ron's timing was perfect in all that he provided me.  His passion for what he does is infectious.  I came away with a passion regarding writing and travel I have never felt before.”
Stacey Sawyer, Boston, MA
Travel Writer Vocationer

“Having this shadowing experience was huge, particularly the opportunity to ask all kinds of questions. It helped dispel the  barriers that I feared and see the reality of the profession, and realize that it can be done without sacrificing a personal life. I learned that it's doable. My VocationVacation was a wonderful experience and lots of fun.”
Steve Summerford, Seattle, WA
Music Composer Vocationer

“Judith answered bare-bones questions about the mechanics of how to live as a working writer -- how to survive as a writer, what it really means to make writing one's livelihood.  She also helped me think about my own process and how to build a community of support.  She de-mystified the process.  I came away empowered with lots of ideas about how to make the transition to the life of a writer.” 
Nancy Taylor, San Francisco, CA
Fiction Writer Vocationer

“I really liked the group of highly motivated people in the small office and clicked with
everyone and their mission.  I am moving towards a new life chapter right now.  I want to be involved in the non-profit world and special projects that are meaningful to me.  I don't HAVE to work, but I want to find a match.  This was a great experience for me.”
Kay Wilemon, Austin, TX
Non-Profit Director Vocationer

“I never expected to be working in a brewery less than a year and a half
after my brew master VocationVacation at Gilded Otter. Although it is only part-time, it is an opportunity afforded to me that would never have happened without VocationVacations and its quest to get people out of their dull and dreary jobs.
The light at the end of my 23-year supermarket career just shined even
brighter.”
Mark Pfeffers, Fishkill, NY
Brew Master Vocationer

“My yoga studio owner mentor Dean Mahan at Yoga Vida, shared with me the good, the bad and the hard realities of the business.  By walking in his shoes, I was able to clarify my future direction and understand whether my passion could be translated into a life’s work.” 
Veronica Cruz, San Jose, CA
Yoga Studio Owner Vocationer

“My mentor, photographer Nina Fuller, was truly a catalyst for me and made me realize I could turn my passion for photography into a career.”
Scott Evers, Long Beach, NY
Photographer Vocationer

“My VocationVacation was just what I needed to get me moving. Dawn helped me see I needed to take action and dive in; Dave helped me understand how to set up a professional kitchen; and both Dawn and Dave provided me a financial reality check on what was needed to operate a bakery and be successful. It was truly an enlightening experience.”
Dawn Treco, Pleasantville, NY
Baker Vocationer