About
Department: Career Exploration and Developement
Position: Career Advisor
Campus: Kent
Laura Stephens is a Career Advisor at Kent State University Career Exploration and Development (CED), serving the engineering, technology, and data community. With a background in IT and credentials in social work, Laura seamlessly aligns her passion with CED's mission—educating and empowering students and alumni in career investigation, decision-making, and goal setting.
Witnessing students gain skills and confidence on their career journeys is what Laura finds most rewarding. She acknowledges the challenge many students face in not knowing where to seek help, emphasizing the accessibility of CED both in-person and virtually. Laura encourages students to reach out, even without clear questions, as she is committed to figuring things out together.
A common reason students turn to CED is because they are contemplating major or career changes. Through exploration, Laura helps them uncover titles, roles, or opportunities within their existing path that better resonate with their interests or goals.
Recognizing a shift towards increased engagement, Laura values the integration of career development into education. “[Studies show] that students who engage with their career offices have better outcomes than those who do not,” she says. “Incorporating career development into the classroom increases engagement so I love seeing it built into curriculum and classroom activities.”
Laura’s practical approach and commitment make her a vital resource at CED, offering guidance for students navigating the challenges of career planning.
For more information visit the Career Exploration & Development website. If you would like to contact Laura Stephens directly she can be reached at lsteph22@kent.edu or 330-672-1746.
Don’t miss these upcoming career events at the College of Aeronautics & Engineering: Go[Pro] Prepare Fair and the Spring 2024 Career Fair.
Laura's Practical Advice
For students unsure about their career direction, what advice do you have for exploring and discovering their passions?
In short, engage with CED for 1-on-1 exploration guidance. Additionally, I think it is important to consider the idea of passion in the workplace. Recognize that everyone brings different cards to the table, and passion may take various forms – driving careers for some, while others prioritize values or purpose. Some find fulfillment by incorporating passion into their career rather than making it the sole focus. Students facing challenges in discovering their passion should know there are alternative paths to finding fulfilling, interesting, and successful careers.
What are some unique resources or services that CED offers students?
Prepare Fairs bring the CED team to your building, ensuring optimal readiness for upcoming job and internship fairs each semester. In addition to reviewing resumés and cover letters, we provide assistance with mock interviews, negotiations, job and internship search strategies, career and major exploration, as well as basic support on a day-today basis.
What role does networking play in a student's career journey, and how can students effectively leverage networking opportunities?
Many imagine networking as an artificial and forced connection, but it's about building a supportive community for your career journey. Consider it more as creating a support system for every step of you career rather than “schmoozing” your way to a new job. Genuine care for your industry and career fosters reciprocal support from others.
How does CED support students not only in finding jobs but also in building long-term career success?
Many students are unaware that CED remains available throughout your entire career. Our support doesn't end after graduation – as an alum, feel free to reach out for assistance at any time. Furthermore, the skills we impart are ones you can continually apply throughout your entire career journey.
If you could give one piece of career advice to every college student, what would it be?
Use your support systems. You are not in this alone. If you feel like you don’t have a good support system, don’t forget about CED.