Where I am; RICKY DALE

APRIL 11TH,
REESE JR II
2021
Where I want OGL482

to be PROFESSOR ROBERT WILSON

THE PRESENTATION PROVIDED
DESCRIBES MY DEVELOPMENT
INTO A QUALITATIVE SELF-
ASSESSMENT THEMATIC

Introduction
RESEARCH ANALYSIS. GOING
FURTHER, YOU WILL DISCOVER
MY OBJECTIVE THEMES WHICH I
HAVE CONSIDERED TO BECOME
REOCCURRENCES OF VALUES
THAT HAVE GROWN THUS FAR
INTO MY CAREER AND LIFE.
Research Process and Methods

• I began analyzing my personal narrative objectively to find reoccurring notions

and trains that stood out.
• I then continued this same process with 8 additional assessments that I have
completed.
• Concurrently, I coded each of my findings into separate categories of where the
information has been grabbed from.
• Once I have accumulated all my data, I grouped together similar items.
• Lastly, I created themes from those groups that have been given evidence from the
stated data findings.
MY DATA SOURCES ARE THE
AREAS IN WHICH HAVE GIVEN
ME THE INSIGHT NEEDED TO
BEGIN MY THEMATIC ANALYSIS.
THESE SOURCES ARE FROM 8
ASSESSMENTS AND 1 PERSONAL
NARRATIVE. TO CREATE A
SIMPLISTIC VIEW OF THESE
My Data Sources
FINDINGS, THEY HAVE ALL BEEN
GIVEN ABBREVIATIONS TO
EASILY NAVIGATE THROUGH
THE QUALITATIVE RESEARCH.
Data Sources
• Personal Narrative (PN) – An in-depth view of learned experiences that has been brought to light from a
substantial self-reflective viewpoint. This narrative requires great thought and awareness of events that have
subsequentially altered and shifted personal mental models thus far.

• DISC Personality Test (DISC) – The DISC Personality Report divides your results into 4 areas of a pie
graphical chart.  The four categories' lists: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, & Compliance.  Dominance –
Describes the way you deal with problems, assert yourself and control situations.  Influence – Describes the
way you deal with people, the way you communicate and relate to others.  Steadiness – Describes your
temperament, patience, persistence, and thoughtfulness. Compliance – Describes how you approach and
organize your activity, procedures and responsibilities.  

• Kuder Skills Confidence Assessment (KSC) - The Kuder Career Assessments determines numerous
reflections based on answers that a person submits.  These reflections allow you to dive deeper in
comprehensible knowledge that involve your interests, skills, values, majors, schools, and occupations.  After
the submission of your answers, you are given a three-letter code in which you collectively attract more of
with respect to your interests.  Based on six different categories that are: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic,
Social, Enterprising, & Conventional (RIASEC).  You are then calculated with the top three scores in which
gives you your Holland Code
Data Sources (cont.)
 Three Questions (TQ) - The three questions invite a great deal of depth and understanding of oneself. At first
glance, the questions can seem almost arbitrary but the moment of reflection illuminates a deeper realization
to progress further into self-actualization. It is valuable to understand the moments of pure joy that can be
available in your life. Realizing the areas of strength allow you to determine which to continue practicing and
applying, while concurrently striving to develop weaknesses. And understanding what it is that you can
contribute to the world reveals your passions. The three questions should reflect greater comprehension of
your abilities, passions, and joy. 

 ASU & Career (ASUC) - The ASU Major and Career Quiz is simplistic and a fun process of evaluation.  In
the beginning of the assessment, you are choosing differing photographs of which areas you consider to enjoy
more over the other.  In the end of this quiz, you can find yourself with the top career choices which
compliment your identity and values.  I think this quiz provides various options that can be considered in
occupation or major.  

 Big Five Personality Test (BFP) - The Big 5 Personality test provides insight into the categories which
list: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, & Neuroticism. Each one of these traits
can describe further in detail on specific definition which entail areas of warmth, anxiety, imagination,
emotion, etc., and are evaluated on a ranking system of high, average or low levels. 
Data Sources (cont.)

• Kuder Career Interest Assessment (KCI) – The Kuder Career Interest Assessment takes
input from personal reflections on values that are driven from oneself. The sum of this
assessment process describes an estimate of which career applications are most suitable for
a person's personality.

• Super’s Work Values Inventory (WVI) – The Super’s Work Values Inventory assessment
accumulates the average answers given and provides insight into your results. The results
are based on the top work values, as determined by the answers submitted.

• Values & Dreams (VD) – Values & Dreams take a deep insight into a person’s main values
that they carry. The main question being asked as you provide your answer is, why do you
want that? The Values & Dreams determines an intense self-evaluation of mantras, mental
models, and achievements.
My 10 Themes
GOING FURTHER, YOU WILL FIND 10 THEMES THAT HIGHLIGHT RECURRING TRAITS
AND CHARACTERISTICS OF MY LIFE. THESE THEMES ARE OBJECTIVELY CREATED
WITH GREAT EVIDENCE THAT IS PROVIDED AS EXAMPLES TO THESE THEMES.
Theme 1: Relationships
 Theme Statement: Building close relationships positively impacts my life.  

 Supporting Data:
 My family has a big impact in my life (PN) 
 Takes in great consideration on what peers think (PN)
 Relationships are important (TQ)
 Role models are impactful in decisions and learning (KCI)
 Recognition of work is valued (WVI)
 Values close relationships (VD)
 Trust is very important (BFP)
 Prefers co-operations versus competition (BFP)
Theme 1: Relationships (con’t)
 Contradictory Evidence
 N/A – I have a strong sense of family, close bonds, and sustainment of relationships. The supporting
data recognizes this characteristic and values which negates any contradictory evidence.

 Reflection
 Relationships and close bonds with others has sequentially described a greater period in which joy has
been illuminated. Meeting new people and hearing their stories and advice has always been a
compelling introduction to the longevity of my current relationships that I hold to this day. Although, in
order to sustain the relationships that are acquired, trust, vulnerability, communication, dialogue, and
empathy are required as foundations. This theme has continuously been apparent throughout my life.
Theme 2: Environment & Stress

 Theme Statement: Structure, planning, and organization is valued to excel in my working

environment.

 Supporting data:
 High stress environments are a commonplace (PN)
 Second guesses big decisions (PN)
 Does not do well in unorganized settings (TQ)
 Rules and standards are important (KCI)
 Lacks originality (KCI)
 Anxiety and stress build easily (BFP) 
 Low in assertion (DISC)
Theme 2: Environment & Stress (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – There was not an area of contradictory evidence for this theme. There was
strong evidence to create the clear theme that holds it accountable as described.

 Reflection:
 I thought the most assertive evidence that created the clear theme is from the data that
notes – lack originality (KCI). Although, this is an area that I value to work and build
upon, it states how structure, planning, and rules are greatly admired. Stress has
shown to be a factor in my environment when the organization or team is misaligned
from the esteemed standards that I follow. Furthermore, this theme magnifies my
reflection on an area that needs to continuously be practiced and strengthened.
Theme 3: Reflection & Development

 Theme Statement: Self-reflection and recognition aids in my development and

motivation

 Supporting data:
 Strong use of reflection throughout lived experiences (PN)
 Concerned about oneself (WVI)
 Variety is not important (WVI)
 Values development (VD)
 Describes persistence (DISC)
 Recognition of work is valued (PN)
Theme 3: Reflection & Development
(con’t)
 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – Another strongly stated theme with supported data that acknowledges a lack of
contradictory evidence. Describes persistence (DISC) – this supporting evidence holds
together this statement.

 Reflection:
 I found this theme to be significant and interesting to read over. It described a person
that has high goals and standards of work with a strong determination to excel in a
specific skill set. The use of self-reflection has aided in this ability to work harder in
areas that are noticeably lacking. It also showed a characteristic that values
recognition of work to be applied in a work setting. I would assume without this
recognition; the work would feel unnecessary.
Theme 4: Confidence & Skill

 Theme Statement: I need an excellent training program to develop worthwhile skills and
confidence.

 Supporting data:
 Achievement gives confidence (PN)
 Lack of confidence diminishes self-esteem (PN)
 Meaningful work builds greater confidence (PN)
 Mastery of skills is important (TQ)
 Confidence is not gained until skills are mastered (TQ)
 Values education (VD)
 Confident is skills (BFP)
Theme 4: Confidence & Skill (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 Achievement is undervalued in work (WVI) – Contradictory. This data grabbed from
the Work Values Inventory Assessment clearly contradicts the other categories of
evidence. This was extremely interesting to digest and discuss. In a great reflection on
the matter, the question for myself asks – when is achievement undervalued? The
answer to this question is – when a great sense of joy and meaningfulness is acquired,
then further achievement is not as necessary.
 Reflection:
 From the data that is provided for this theme, I could find an understanding that supports
a characteristic which is linear with exceling in one specific area at a time. I enjoy
picking up one skill that has grabbed my attention and putting most of my energy to
fulfill that area of understanding. When a subject in not fully comprehensible, then I
would need additional aid in obtaining further information to master it.
Theme 5: Responsibility

 Theme Statement: I am willing to relocate if it furthers my growth in career.

 Supporting data:
 Consistently moving from one thing to another (PN)
 Stepping up inside a corporate ladder seems comfortable (PN)
 Location is undervalued when compared to stagnation (PN)
 Values responsible roles (VD)
 Enjoys responsibility (BFP) 
 Enjoys direct leadership roles (BFP)
Theme 5: Responsibility (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – There was no data found that would contradict this theme. There was clear
examples in the data that describes an ability and willingness to relocate from job
choices and stores if it meant furthering an exploration towards self-actualization.

 Reflection:
 The data highlights areas that were consistent with a value for roles with greater
responsibility, as well as a need to fulfill direction of growth. Becoming stagnant for a
long period of time is undesirable and the continuous motion of achieving more is
observable in the data. When I reflect on this characteristic and theme, I reminisce of
the times in which I chose to face the fear of the unknown in an effort to overcome
something entirely new.
Theme 6: Economics

 Theme Statement: I desire a career that pays well enough to sustain a comfortable lifestyle.

 Supporting data:
 Low-income impacts decisions (PN)
 Economic gain is important (KCI)
 Interest in achieving economic & organizational goals (KSC)
 Economic Stability is important (WVI)
 High-income is valued (WVI)
 Values financial gain (VD)
 Values economic security (VD)
Theme 6: Economics (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – Contradictory evidence is not found in this theme. There is numerous data that
creates a clear pattern in which economics in highly valued.

 Reflection:
 To fully reflect on this theme, it captures my attention to roles and careers choices that
can elevate or sustain my personal comfortable standard of living. I believe economic
security is valued for myself because of the need to feel as a provider. An ability to
provide not just the comfortable life for myself, but a comfortable life for my family as
well.
Theme 7: Corporations

 Theme Statement: Soft skills are dominant versus technical skills.

 Supporting data:
 Science and Math is undervalued (KCI)
 Lacking math & science skills (KSC)
 Not confident in machinery work (KSC)
 Enjoys corporate environment (ASUC)
 Does not like working with hands (ASUC)
 Balance work and social life is important (WVI)
Theme 7: Corporations (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – I believe there is no contradictory evidence towards this theme because of the
experiences that I have had throughout my life. In personal reflection on the matter, there
has been numerous moments that I have realized where my strengths and weaknesses are
focused.

 Reflection:
 In a work setting, I have been told on many occasions from my peers that I do extremely well
with conversations towards customers. I am usually asked on tips and tricks, how to create
and sustain the conversations that I have. I find them extremely enjoyable getting to know
new people and creating conversations or teaching environments with others. The soft skills
that I hold are valued higher than the technical. Although, consistent with this theme, it has
aided in my understanding where I need to further my development – technical skills.
Theme 8: Teaching

 Theme Statement: I gain joy from helping others learn and master their skills &
craft.

 Supporting data:
 Gather joy from teaching (PN)
 Service to others is important (TQ)
 Interest in teaching others (KSC)
 Describes patience (DISC)
 Describes thoughtfulness (DISC)
Theme 8: Teaching (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – Since a young age, I have always been consistent with helping and teaching
others. In the time period of my high school years, I had dreamed of becoming a
teacher in a corrections facility to become an aid in developing young minds to
progress in times of hardship.

 Reflection:
 In my greatest joy from my current role at Starbucks was being certified to become a
Barista Trainer. The personal time spent with the new partners was incredibly
satisfying. As the value of meeting new people and becoming the person that can mold
a person's craft and skill was gratifying. My role as a supervisor has less personal time
to train but is still an area where I can continuously coach.
Theme 9: Communications

 Theme Statement: I have a high recognition concerning emotional intelligence and tolerance for
diversity.

 Supporting data:
 Gather joy from connecting with others (PN)
 Excels in communications and writing (TQ)
 Sharing experiences is important (TQ)
 Joy comes from meaning (TQ)
 Solves problems through empathy (KSC)
 Easy to talk to (WVI)
 Values honesty (VD)
 Values cultural experiences (VD)
 Tolerance for diversity (BFP)
 Communication is important (ASUC)
 Diversity is important (ASUC)
Theme 9: Communication (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – There was 11 areas of data that fulfilled this theme. This was the theme that held
the most data to support it. I greatly value and admire wonderful conversations with old
friends, new strangers, and anyone who enjoys talking or sharing thoughts and stories.

 Reflection:
 It was very known to myself that communication was going to find its way into one of
my themes. I have a great urge to understand the way that people communicate and act.
It helps me find areas of connection and areas of comprehension. People have various
perspectives and the only way to learn more is by talking about one that is different from
your own. I believe therefore Tolerance for Diversity (BEP) was a data used to support
it.
Theme 10: Challenges

 Theme Statement: I am concerned with elevation in a challenging role.

 Supporting data:
 Challenges gives importance to work (KSC)
 Enjoys a challenge (PN)
 Not easily upset in stressful situations (BFP)
 Values expertise (VD)
Theme 10: Challenges (con’t)

 Contradictory Evidence:
 N/A – Challenges gives importance to work (KSC) is a great example that highlights
the lack of contradictory evidence. My desire to always challenge my thinking and
work standard has always been apparent.

 Reflection:
 Without the challenges in my life, I would have never been able to get to where I am
now. A great reference comes from my written Personal Narrative (PN) in which the
challenges and experiences have helped me grow further and progress. Challenges are
close to failures, but the failures are where I can learn the most. Learning and
developing is a great passion for myself.
My Personal Vision Statement

To create impactful moments in the lives of others –

through empathy, understanding, and intelligence.

Reflection: Creating this vision statement for myself, I needed to consider what
matters dearly. I thought about moments that bring me joy and moments that I would
enjoy seeing others do as well. In this vision statement, it encompasses a world that I
would love to see through. A world where people take a step back and think about
those little moments that changed their perspective for the better – the use of
empathy, understanding, and intelligence that helped grow a person’s ability to also
create a kinder and connected world.
My Personal Mission Statement

I am committed to bringing mindfulness and empathy as a

common ground for connection with appreciation,
compassion, and insight.

Reflection: Creating this personal mission, I had to ask the question – what am I
committed to? I consider my answer to be my personal mission. I value deeply a
world where people can find a common ground with one another. I value
compassion and the use of insight to become aware of the differences we all have in
which should always be appreciated.
Conclusion
OVERALL, THE THEMATIC ANALYSIS PRESENTATION HAS GIVEN ME TREMENDOUS
INSIGHT TO MY VALUES AND PERSPECTIVES. I TOOK APART THE SMALL AREAS OF
COMFORT AND JOY AND MOLDED THEM INTO DATA THAT SUPPORTS A
COMPREHENSION OF WHO I AM. I AM A PERSON WHO ENJOYS BEING CHALLENGED,
VALUED, AND CONNECTED WITH. I ALSO CARE FOR STABILITY, STRUCTURE, AND
ORGANIZATION. THIS ANALYSIS HAS ALSO SHOWN ME WHO I WANT TO CONTINUE
BEING AND PROGRESS INTO. CONCLUSIVELY, I DISCOVERED A CAREER PATH THAT FITS
INTO THE THEMES I HAVE CREATED – RECRUITING COORDINATOR. THIS IS JUST THE
BEGINNING TO MY JOURNEY THAT COULD LEAD TO A ROLE AS A DIRECTOR OF TALENT
ACQUISITION WITHIN THE NEXT 5-10 YEARS. I APPRECIATE THE DEPTH PUT INTO THIS
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH AND THE OUTCOMES IT HAS PROVIDED.
References

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https://www.kuder.com/solutions/kuder-career-planning-system/assessments/
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personality test. Retrieved April 08, 2021, from
https://www.123test.com/personality-test/
 Disc personality test: Take this free disc profile assessment at 123test.com. (n.d.).
Retrieved April 08, 2021, from https://www.123test.com/disc-personality-test/
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from https://yourfuture.asu.edu/me3