Female Graduates of Golf Academy of America Land Job Opportunities Prior to Graduation

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Nov. 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Karlene Hadley didn't have to worry about finding a job as her graduation from Golf Academy of America approached.

Hadley, who will finish Golf Academy of America's 16-month associate degree program in December, had attractive job offers several weeks prior to graduation. In her new career, she wants to utilize a variety of skills ranging from instruction to club repair.

"The opportunities are everywhere," said Hadley, who worked in the insurance industry for 15 years before enrolling at Golf Academy of America's Phoenix campus.

Golf Academy of America president Jim Hart said the golf industry needs well-qualified female job candidates.

"We receive many inquiries from employers about our female students," Hart said. "Our female students have many opportunities."

Lauren Tallman, a 2011 Golf Academy of America in Myrtle Beach graduate, serves as a PGA apprentice at clubs in New York and Florida. Her five-year goal is to become a director of golf.

"I had a great experience at Golf Academy of America," Tallman said. "It prepares you for what's out there in the workplace."

Golf opportunities vary. Miriam Piland-Rice, a student at Golf Academy of America in Orlando, serves as Director of Special Needs Programming for the Little Linksters junior golf program. She teaches children skills they can use throughout their daily life.

Julie Fenn, a 2010 graduate of Golf Academy of America's Phoenix campus, is executive director of the 11,000-member Northern California Women's Golf Association.

"I'm very happy where I am – the right opportunity fell into my lap," said the former engineer.  "As a woman, once you're in the door it's all about what you do, how you perform."

About Golf Academy of America
Golf Academy of America (formerly the San Diego Golf Academy) is the largest and longest-running two-year golf college in the world. Golf Academy of America's 16-month program balances classroom studies, practical experience and comprehensive understanding of both the game and the business of golf. Campuses are located in San Diego, Phoenix, Orlando, Myrtle Beach and Dallas. For more information, call 800-342-7342 or visit www.GolfAcademy.edu. The schools are owned and operated by the Education Corporation of America, headquartered in Birmingham, Ala. Visit www.ECAColleges.com for more information.

SOURCE Golf Academy of America