Updated December 2022

If you’re considering a career as an administrative assistant, you’re probably wondering what life’s really like on the job. Is the role right for you? What should you know up front before you invest in training?

Unfortunately, the information out there is sometimes unclear. What exactly does an administrative assistant do?

Basically, admin assistants help businesses run smoothly by providing clerical support, answering client requests, scheduling appointments, and organizing projects.

If that still sounds vague to you, it’s because many specifics of the job depend on the type of organization you choose to work for.

What does it all boil down to? Being a key member of the office support team. No business or organization could function without highly organized, skilled administrative staff.

Let’s look at some pros and cons of this position. By the end of this post, you’ll have a much better idea of what to expect.

Rebecca Hiebert raised three children on her own. For many years, being a mother was her full-time job. But over the last year or two, those priorities began to change.

Her children grew older and became more independent. Gradually, she found herself with some extra time. And she knew exactly what she wanted to do with it.

Rebecca had always wanted to study business administration. With great determination, she returned to school and earned not one, but two diplomas in business from Herzing College Winnipeg.

Herzing College Senior Admissions Advisor, Alex Wells at his home office in Ottawa

Alex Wells has been working in college admissions for over 20 years. A Psychology major with decades of experience in student advising, Alex knows exactly how to help people choose the right diploma program.

Very often, he meets with students who are interested in business training. His job is to figure out if business is the right choice, based on the individual’s career goals, natural talents, and overall personality. 

Alex takes the time to really get to know each candidate. This process is key, because the student’s time, money, and future are riding on this decision.