From Dream to Reality: How One Admin Transformed Her Career with ASAP's Help

Anastasia "Stacy" Vanderpool: I was inspired to pursue professional development while working at Total Quality Logistics (TQL). I was the only administrative assistant in an office of 100+ brokers. Continuous growth was embedded in the company culture, and I wanted that for myself too! I constantly saw training for brokers on the schedule, but never for support staff. When I realized the internal training was focused mostly on sales, I took matters into my own hands, did some research, and found ASAP. I jumped in headfirst and never looked back! 

At TQL I was fortunate enough to have a boss who truly valued me as a professional and wanted me to be fulfilled at work, so he approved funding for me to get my PACE. After achieving the certification, I finally had the tools in my toolbelt to advocate for growth opportunities in my career, specifically as an admin. If I wanted to continue to grow at TQL, I would have had to transfer to a different department/role. Becoming PACE-certified was proof that being an administrative professional was more than just an entry-level job or a steppingstone—it was something to be taken seriously. I started advocating for a clear career path as an admin at TQL and I was able to rock the boat enough for them to start their own admin training program.  

My aha moment came from watching Madelyn Mackie’s free Career Mapping: From Assisting to Leading webinar—it is pure gold! The key takeaway for me was learning to be more intentional about my career. Instead of jumping at every opportunity, I became more introspective about what I wanted in my career. I started focusing on organizations that aligned with my values of community, education, and growth and also started seeking out opportunities with the University of Memphis. I applied to over 15 positions at UofM, but two years later, I achieved my goal! I am the newest administrative professional at UofM, assisting the Vice Provost of the Student Academic Success Division.   

What do you think is the biggest benefit of belonging to a professional community like ASAP? 

The biggest benefit of joining ASAP is the empowerment you gain from others who share your goals. Being part of a community that values growth really pushes you to aim higher. I was the only admin in my office at TQL and felt limited in my knowledge of career possibilities. ASAP opened my eyes to new opportunities, and with the community's support, I gained the confidence to steer my career in the direction I wanted, which ultimately led me to UofM. 

Looking ahead, how do you plan to continue using the skills and connections you've gained through ASAP as you grow in your career? 

I plan to maintain my PACE certification through ASAP webinars/workshops/courses and LinkedIn Learning. Currently, I’m in the early stages of forming an Administrative Professionals group at the University of Memphis. My vision includes regular training sessions, attending the Administrative Professionals Conference, creating a newsletter, and even starting a book club. I’m excited about building a stronger admin community. The possibilities are endless, and I am so fired up about it! 

For those inspired by your story, what’s one piece of advice you'd offer to admins who are still searching for their dream job? 

Reflection is key. Take all the courses, listen to the podcasts, and absorb the knowledge—but be sure to take time to reflect on it all. Get to know yourself on a deeper level so you can move forward with purpose. Once you understand who you are and what you value, you can create a more intentional career plan—that will bring you much closer to your goals. 

Anastasia "Stacy" Vanderpool is an administrative professional with a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Memphis College of Art. She currently works in the Student Academic Success Division at the University of Memphis, where she brings warmth and creativity to her work. Stacy is passionate about learning, professional development, and engaging students and staff. 

With experience in event planning, marketing, and teaching, she has made a positive impact on nonprofits like the National Ornamental Metal Museum, where she volunteers alongside her husband, James, the Metal Museum’s Foundry Operations Manager. Stacy has also contributed to the Museum of Science & History and The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis.  

A PACE-certified member of ASAP, Stacy is committed to excellence and building connections. Outside of work, she is a proud mother to her spirited two-year-old daughter, nurturing the next generation of strong, empowered leaders.