Eric D Chapman

Mentorship Commitment Preference: Engage in a long-term mentorship (connect with your mentee throughout the semester, outside of LinkUp events — frequency and format are flexible). Available for virtual mentoring. 

Industry: Nonprofit (Affordable Housing)

Employer: Community Housing Partners Corporation

Job Title: General Counsel

Areas Eric is interested in mentoring: 

• Resume Review
• Career Planning
• Networking Strategies
• Interview Preparation
• Skill Development
• Communication Skills
• Time Management
• Industry Insights and Trends
• Graduate School Advice
• Pre-Law

Bio: While at George Mason University I worked in a variety of fields (hospitality and university services). I participated in the Oxford Honors Program. I graduated George Mason, worked in the film industry and hospitality inudstry, returned to George Mason for my masters degree, taught University 100 courses while working in a law firm. Went to law school, graduated, worked as outside general counsel at a boutique law firm, and moved in-house. 

I have two kids, I have been married 17 years, I like wine, playing guitar, and writing songs. 

How did you get your first job? Dishwasher at a seafood/steakhouse biker bar. I asked to be a server, and they said we need someone for a job no one wants to do. I said I'll do it.

If you were starting your career today, what is the one piece of advice you would give yourself? Talk to folk about what they do and how they got into it. And if they offer to introduce you to someone or invite you to follow-up, do it. 

In what ways has your career path been unique or unconventional? When I'm no longer growing/learning in a position, or I determine it's not the right fit for my anymore, I leave it and devote my time to the next opportunity.

What career paths have you explored or transitioned between? Hospitality, film-editing, small business owner, law firm partner, real estate management, consulting.

What skills or experiences have been most valuable in your career? Communication skills with a focus on written communication. Public speaking. Sense of humor. Curiosity about others.

Affinity Groups Eric was part of during his time at Mason: 

• University Scholars
• Phi Kappa Theta
• Peer Advisors
• English Honors program
• Poetry Society

Eric is open to participating in informational interviews