“Working as a Career Advisor at the Center for Career and Professional Development has been one of the most rewarding and formative experiences of my time at Kalamazoo College.

I actually stumbled into this role somewhat unexpectedly; at the time, the career studio didn’t have any posted opening for students workers – but after landing a summer internship as a sophomore and having not yet been involved much on campus, I felt a need to give back to Kalamazoo College for what the role I felt this community had played in my own personal success. So I sent a cold email expressing my interest in supporting other students and hoping that perhaps there was an open role I could fill. I had no idea what could come of that email, but I felt fortunate to have even gotten a response at the time.

What I didn’t realize then was how much I would grow from this experience. I came in thinking the job would mostly involve helping other students; I thought I would be reviewing resumes, preparing for interviews, offering advice. While that’s certainly part of the job, I’ve learned just as much from the students who come into the studio, my fellow Career Advisors, and the professional staff who have been instrumental in helping me prepare for life after graduation.

This role has given me more than I ever expected when I sent that cold email to Keri and Alex – both of whom are now two of my favorite bosses I’ve had the privilege to work for. It’s allowed me to stay involved on campus while having a tangible impact, and it’s taught me how to better support others all while giving me the tools and confidence to support myself.

If you’re looking for a role that combines professional development, peer mentorship, and personal growth, I can’t recommend being a Career Advisor highly enough.” – Thomas Bentley ’25

Curious about what’s possible when you take a chance? Becoming a Career Advisor could be the next step in your own journey of growth, connection, and impact. It’s a chance to build your skills, support your peers, and be part of a team that genuinely cares. Applications are open now and due April 25. We’d love to hear from you.

“I became a Career Advisor after my friends recommended that I apply. Although I had previous on-campus roles where I supported fellow students, the opportunity to learn more about career development drew me to this role. I have learned so much about current career trends and essential information regarding resumes and other necessary career documents, allowing me to advise my peers better. Working here has allowed me to meet so many students in different stages of their career development, and I have been able to help them work towards their future careers.

I would not have been able to learn and thrive in this role without my fellow Career Advisors. With their support, I have been confident to ask for assistance whenever there are situations where an extra pair of eyes is necessary because I know that they have my back whenever I need it. Working in such a supportive environment has created a strong bond between all of us, allowing the Studio to provide the best service to anyone who needs career help. Having the opportunity to work here has also pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me to network and interact with alumni. I greatly enjoyed working in the Career Center and highly recommend applying for this position.” – Malin Nordmoe ’25

Inspired by Mei Mei’s story? You could be the next Career Advisor making a difference on campus. This role is a great opportunity to develop professional skills, support fellow students, and be part of a collaborative team. Applications are now open and due by April 25. Don’t miss your chance to apply!

“Being a Career Advisor in the Career Studio was never my original intention. During my first year at K, I noticed that the CCPD Office Assistant role was hiring and available, and I was looking for an on-campus job. While working as an assistant, I had always revered the Career Advisors, who always appeared to complete their complex tasks and jobs without hesitation. Thus, when the position was offered at the end of my first year, I wasn’t sure how well I could manage the job. 

Throughout training, I was paired with a Senior CA, Jordyn, who walked me through the intricacies of the job. My relationship with Jordyn showed me immediately how being a CA means being a part of a community. This community is not merely made up of employees of the CCPD; it represents every person who walks into the Career Studio, awaiting help from their peers. I feel so glad to have been a part of this community for four years now, and I know that this community will stay with me: not only because the CCPD offers its services for all K Alumni, but also because of the enduring relationships that I have been able to build in the Career Studio.” – Alex Nam ’25

If Alex’s experience sounds like something you’d enjoy, consider applying to be a Career Advisor next year! The position offers the chance to grow your confidence, build meaningful relationships, and make a real impact on your peers’ career journeys. Applications are open now and due April 25!

“My work as a Career Advisor has been largely defined by my interactions with others. When I started in this position as a sophomore, I learned a lot from my fellow Career Advisors in watching and listening to their interactions with students. Through exploring the resources offered by the studio and by connecting with others who had been here longer than I had, I was greatly able to develop my mentoring skills when I met with others on my own. I continue to learn from my fellow Career Advisors today, three years later.  

Just as important have been my interactions with students. I have learned so much from speaking with people from all disciplines, majors, and grade levels, from hearing about seniors’ SIP’s to listening to people’s summer and study abroad experiences. In this position, I feel connected to our student body and wish nothing but the best for them as they reach for their career goals.  

Finally, this position has given me the necessary skills and confidence for effective networking. In talking with professors and alumni, I have become more comfortable talking about my goals and experiences with others and gotten over a lot of my nerves surrounding career conversations and interviewing. Not only has this helped me be a better Career Advisor for others, it has also helped me feel more confident in my career journey.” Laura DeVilbiss ’25

Inspired by Laura’s story? You could be a Career Advisor too!
This role is a great opportunity to strengthen your communication skills, form lasting connections, and support fellow students as they navigate their career paths. Applications are open now and due April 25!

“Follow your passion” sounds great on paper—who wouldn’t want a job that feels like play? But in reality, this advice can leave young people feeling frustrated, stuck, and like they’re failing some imaginary life test. The truth is, most people don’t have one clear, burning passion from the start, and even if they do, interests evolve. What excites you at 18 might not hold the same spark at 22. Expecting to build your entire career around one passion? That’s way too limiting. So, what’s a more strategic approach? Here’s what we recommend:

1) Cultivate Curiosity, Not Just Passion: Passion develops over time. The key is to stay curious and try new things. Studying abroad/away, internships, volunteering, job shadowing, joining student organizations—these experiences give you real insight into what excites and motivates you. The more you explore, the more data points you have to figure out what truly resonates. As Elizabeth Gilbert puts it, “Curiosity taps you on the shoulder very lightly… It gives you clues, not a destination.” Research backs this up—hands-on experiences help build a sense of purpose and direction (Brackett, 2019). Unlike the pressure to find one perfect passion, curiosity is flexible, forgiving, and a whole lot more practical.

2) Leverage Your Strengths: Instead of asking, “What am I passionate about?” try asking, “What am I good at?” When you use your natural talents, work becomes more fulfilling, and success comes more easily. That sweet spot—where your strengths meet opportunities—is where you’ll find the most job satisfaction. Career assessments can help, but they’re just a starting point. They offer insights, not answers. The goal is to identify patterns in what you enjoy and excel at, then explore careers that align with those strengths.

3) Focus on What the World Needs: Passion alone won’t pay the bills. Instead of focusing solely on what you love, consider what’s valuable in the job market. What problems need solving? What skills are in demand? Finding a career that combines your interests with real-world needs is a recipe for long-term success. Resources like O*NET can help you explore growing fields and in-demand skills. The idea isn’t to abandon passion completely but to balance it with practicality.

Passion isn’t something you discover first—it’s something that grows as you develop skills, gain experience, and build expertise. The more proficient you become, the more engaged and excited you’ll feel. Instead of searching for a “perfect fit,” focus on learning, exploring different industries, and making meaningful contributions. Mastery often leads to passion, not the other way around. So, invest in your growth, get really good at something, and let passion follow.

References:

• Brackett, M. A. (2019). Permission to feel: Unlocking the power of emotions to help yourself, your kids, and your society thrive. Celadon Books. (Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence)
• Gilbert, E. (n.d.). On being. Interview with Krista Tippett.

Since opening in Week 2, the Career Studio has seen a record number of students coming through the doors—despite unexpected challenges like network outages and two snow days! It’s clear that students are eager to explore career possibilities, and we love seeing so many of you taking the first step toward your futures.

Not sure where to start? That’s totally fine—we’ll meet you wherever you’re at. Whether you need help exploring career options, updating your resume, preparing for interviews, or just figuring out what’s next, our peer advisors are here to help. You don’t need an appointment, and there’s no limit to how many times you can stop by.

The Career Studio is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Dewing 102, with additional evening hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Drop in whenever works for you, and let’s start figuring things out together!