Staff

Jim Lowe was appointed as Assistant Vice Provost, Executive Director for the Center for Career Development of the University of Connecticut in February of 2013. Prior to his appointment to the Provost Office, Lowe served as Assistant Dean, Executive Director, External Relations and Outreach, of UConn’s School of Business, overseeing the Undergraduate and MBA populations’ career development programs and initiatives, Veteran Affairs, Diversity Initiatives, Marketing/Communications, and External Relations Departments. Before joining UConn, Lowe spent 10 years with Lee Hecht Harrison, a human capital solutions firm, primarily in their Manhattan, NY offices. During that time he was a Senior Vice President and General Manager overseeing all operational, financial, HR and marketing/sales functions at the firm’s international headquarters practice office and was SVP, Regional Sales Manager where he developed and executed strategic sales initiatives for the firm’s professional services, focusing on Fortune 1000 and mid-tier companies.

Lowe held senior level executive positions at a number of international companies such as: Leslie’s Poolmart, controlling all sales and operational functions of $350 million national business; Warner Bros., where he was Director of Training and Organizational Development addressing the talent needs that came with an expansion from 26 domestic locations to over 100 domestic and 16 international locations; and Linens ‘N Things, where he created sales, leadership and management development programs.

Lowe has been a frequent guest lecturer at Fordham University’s Graduate School of Business Administration, New York University’s Stern School of Business, and Fairfield University, from which he received his BA degree. He is also a Certified Career Management Professional, and is certified in multiple individual and 360 organizational assessment tools.

Nancy Bilmes is currently the Director of the Center for Career Development. Some of her responsibilities include supervising staff, overseeing the day to day operations of the department and managing all departmental activities. Previous to being director Nancy was responsible for departmental programming, supervising the Peer Career Advisors, developing new programming initiatives, and overseeing experiential learning opportunities. She also works one-on-one with students and presents workshops and presentations on all career related topics. Some of Nancy’s previous roles in the Center for Career Development (formerly Career Services), included Associate Director, Assistant Director for Experiential Learning, Career Counselor and Cooperative Education Coordinator.
Prior to coming to UConn, Nancy received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Higher Education from Central Connecticut State University where she worked as a Graduate Assistant in the Office of Alcohol and Other Drugs. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Communication from Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York where she was a Peer Career Counselor. Nancy developed her passion for Career Services while serving in this role as an undergraduate and has devoted her life’s work to helping students manager their careers and find their own passions.

Alex is the Program Assistant for the UConn Stamford Center for Career Development. Alex provides administrative support including front desk operations, data collection and reporting, training and supervision of student workers, and project management. In addition, Alex assists in marketing career development programs and events and coordinates on-campus employer visits. Alex received a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality studies from UConn Stamford.

Amelinda Vazquez (she/her/hers) is the Associate Director, Programming & Internal Relations at the Center for Career Development. Amelinda leads the Center’s strategic vision for in-person and virtual career readiness programming for UConn Nation. In addition to career development programs, Amelinda oversees internal relations, which focuses on building and sustaining relationships with internal organizations within UConn’s community.  Through internal relations, Amelinda manages communication, outreach, and partnership with over 70 internal university constituencies including academic departments, student organizations and activities, cultural centers, and student support departments.

Amelinda earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Eastern Connecticut State University and a Master of Science in Communication from Central Connecticut State University. Amelinda has worked in Higher Education in various capacities. Prior to her beginning at UConn, she worked at both Eastern Connecticut State University and Assumption College in Residential Life and served as the Communication Chair for the NASPA Region I Latino Knowledge Community.

As an Assistant Director on the Corporate Partner Relations team, I connect employers in the New York Metro Area, and South and West of Connecticut with UConn talent.  My goal is to partner with employers to create engagement opportunities to assist in their recruiting efforts for internships and full-time roles.  By cultivating relationships with employers across many different industries, I learn their goals and help them develop a strategy to meet and recruit UConn students and alumni.

Bio

Hometown: Westchester County, NY

Things I enjoy:  Spending time with my family, friends and the cutest dog in the world, my pup, Moira Rose!

Advice to students: Visit the Center for Career Development and stay connected with us. We are here for you and are rooting for your career success – whatever that may look like for you. We have tons of resources to assist you from your first year and beyond.  Also, get involved as much as you can on and off campus, and meet people! Be curious and listen. Kindness matters. As a UConn student, you are automatically connected with thousands of people who once sat in those chairs you sit in now at UConn – alumni! Leverage those connections and have meaningful conversations. And while you are out there, look for organizations that are doing the work you want to be part of.  What matters to you?  Find out who is in that space – chances are a role will be there for you that aligns with your interest and skills. Trust the process.

Education

Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT
Master of Arts, School Counseling
Favorite Experience: My internships at Westhill High School and King School.

Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Italian
Study Abroad: Florence, Italy
Favorite Experience: Studying Italian art, culture and language abroad.

Previous Roles

• Associate Director, Employer Relations – Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY
• School Counselor – Stamford Public Schools, Westhill High School, Stamford, CT
• Operations Coordinator – Pomellato USA, Inc., New York, NY
• Account Supervisor – American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS), Stamford, CT
• Placement Coordinator – American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS), Stamford, CT

Hometown: Rochester, NY (Brighton)

My goal is to work with employers from all different sectors, sizes and organizational cultures to ensure UConn students have the opportunities to translate their UConn experience into professional experiences during their studies (internships or part time jobs) and post- graduation (first professional jobs).  I guide employers on how to best navigate posting and promoting their opportunities on Handshake, and then, find ways for employers to meet you. This could be in person, through a virtual meeting or even through email messaging.  Given my years as a  professional marketer, business leader and manager of young professionals at Fortune 1000 companies and global nonprofits, I can “speak the employer language”. With my insider view, I listen, collaborate and guide employers on what is right for UConn students. 

Things I enjoy:  I have a long-standing commitment to volunteerism.  I am a member of organizations that promote education, the arts and provide support for marginalized groups.  I have volunteered in many capacities including service projects, event planning and fundraising and securing donated items.  My other interests include music and sports.  I am a violinist since the age of 5 – playing in school and community orchestras and teaching the Suzuki method.  When it comes to sports,   I also grew up playing soccer in a wide range of teams including playing internationally with my corporate Danone/Dannon team- a great employee benefit.  I am also a sports fan especially during March Madness – and while I do cheer for UConn – I cheer a bit louder for another “blue uniformed” team.

Advice to students:
Emphasize, Explore, Experience to gain Employment;  Emphasize taking the time in your fun and busy schedules even as First Years– to think and plan for your post graduate journey, Explore what is out there by meeting with Career Consultants, attending career fairs or employer sessions, and Experience working as a young professional – in part time jobs, internships- that may or may not be in a field  you ultimately land.  This formula will help you when you do graduate and are seeking Employment for your first job post UConn.  This helps you become a  “life long employment seeker”  help you as you eventually find your “dream job”.

Education

New York University/Stern School of Business, New York, NY
MBA, Marketing and International Business
Summer Internship, (Mondelez (RJR Nabisco): Vice President of Urban Business Assistance Corporation (student-owned consulting business for minority-owned businesses), Duke Symphony

Duke University, Durham, NC
A.B. Public Policy and History

Summer Internship: National Consumer League, communications and lobbying assistant
Study Abroad: Queen Mary College/University of London, Suzuki Violin Instructor, Club Soccer

Previous Roles

• Nonprofit Agencies: Director, New Business Save the Children, Marketing Project Leader, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
• Consumer Products Manufacturers: Marketing Director and Manager positions for numerous brands and product lines: Edgewell (Schick/Playtex), DANONE North America (Dannon yogurt),Georgia Pacific/James River (Brawny, Quilted Northern, Dixie), Mondelez/RJRNabisco (Cream of Wheat/Toastettes)
• High Tech Manufacturers: Marketing Director, Pitney Bowes – Small Business Division including internet postage
• Financial Services: Commercial Lender and Management Trainee, Wells Fargo,N.A., (First American Bank) Washington, DC

Volunteer Roles

• Women’s Service Organizations:  National Charity League (Grade Level Advisor), Association of Junior Leagues International – Connecticut and NYC chapters (Fundraising and Cultural arts), Greek Orthodox Philoptochos Society (Community Service)
• Community: Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Fairfield Public Schools (Board of Education Representative, Secretary and Programs): Asistant Coach Girls’ Recreation Soccer
• Higher Education: Alumni organizations:  Community Service, Reunion Committee and Sports-watching
• Music:  Board Members, Bridgeport Symphony (Finance Committee), InterSchool Orchestra Society (Marketing Committee)

Darlene Reynolds works on Assessment & Technology, this includes being the main administrator for multiple Center for Career Development technologies such as HuskyCareerLink and the Husky Mentor Network. She assists students, employers and alumni in utilizing these platforms effectively.

Darlene came to the university in 2000 and began as the front desk receptionist in the Center for Career Development. Then worked with many of the department programs such as Co-op program, and Human Services Career Fair now known as the Careers for the Common Good Career Fair.

I am a part-time career Coach. In my role, I meet with students and alumni in one-on-one consultations to discuss career-related topics such as major or career exploration, career planning resources, document review, and post-graduation opportunities. I perform practice interviews, review LinkedIn profiles, moderate panel discussions related to job searches, and present sessions on internship searches, elevator pitches, applicant tracking systems, networking, virtual interviews, and mentoring.

I work closely with the International Student and Scholar Services department to provide programming and resources to meet the career-related needs of international students. I write blogs and develop relevant content related to career development for the International Student Affinity Page.

I am part of the Career Competency Team, and I’m a member of a sub-group for the Diversity Equity and Inclusion team, where we are launching a Career Influencer position for the affinity groups at UConn.

My favorite part of being a Career Coach is empowering students to reach their fullest potential and achieve successful career outcomes.

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Bio

Hometown: I was born in Washington D.C., then spent my school years in Narragansett R.I., then moved back to D.C. after college.

Things I enjoy: I enjoy traveling. I have driven across the country with a pop-up camper and backpacked through Europe. When I travel, I enjoy exploring new cultures, trying unique foods, and experiencing new adventures. I have ziplined with monkeys, swam with stingrays, and turtles, jumped off cliffs, rafted through caves, and rode ATVs through the jungle.

Advice to students: You do not need to have it all figured out today. Your career is a journey. Your aspirations may shift as your experiences in life grow. Expose yourself to new people and experiences, and you may discover what interests you.

Through my personal experience, I have learned that the major that I chose in college did not pigeonhole me into a specific career. Additionally, I earned my first job out of college through networking which was extremely challenging as an introvert. I have discovered that I need to push myself out of my comfort zone to achieve success. 

Education & Certifications

Providence College

Master of Arts

Bachelor of Arts

Professional Association of Résumé Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC)

Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW) 

Additional Roles

State of Connecticut

Consultant

I provide services to the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Vocational Rehabilitation Program and Level-Up to write résumés for individuals with disabilities. I specialize in crafting resumes that highlight a client’s abilities.

Association for Financial Professionals

Career Manager

I developed and managed the association’s programs supporting the career advancement of finance executives. I produced the Compensation Survey for the entire industry and presented at conferences across the country on various career-related topics.

In my role, I oversee the one-on-one career coaching program. In addition to coordinating our offerings, I also help the team of coaches in their professional development by implementing trainings and discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion topics. My favorite aspect of my job is when get to meet individually with students and alums, hearing their stories, and together, coming up with action plans to meet their future goals and aspirations. One of my emerging interests is in helping students find their purpose and find meaningful work.

Bio

Hometown: Storrs, CT

Things I enjoy: I love everything about the outdoors and never turn down an adventure. I grew up exploring the woods behind my house, Mansfield Hollow State Park, and surrounding areas. I enjoy traveling and have visited almost every state in the continental US and a handful of European and middle eastern countries.

Advice to students: Be open to possibilities. Approach life with a sense of curiosity and the rest will follow.

Education

Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT
Master of Science, Counselor Education: Student Development in Higher Education
Graduate Thesis: Combat Related Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Higher Education, the Effects on Learning and Behavior

Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT
Bachelor of Science, Sport Management
Favorite Project: Establishing the Outdoor Adventure Club

Previous Roles

• Assistant Director, Career Coaching and Counseling- UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Career Consultant, School of Engineering– UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Career Counselor – Goodwin University, East Hartford, CT
• Counselor – Manchester Community College, Manchester, CT
• Owner- Margo Manufacturing, Mansfield, CT
• Warehouse Manager- Wildlife Control Supplies, East Granby, CT
• 88M and 13B- Connecticut Army National Guard

Evan McMunn is the Publicity and Marketing Administrator for the UConn Center for Career Development. In this role, he oversees the development and delivery of communication supporting the Center’s events, programming, and services to UConn students, as well as outreach to faculty and staff regarding department initiatives.

Before joining the Center for Career Development in 2019, Evan worked in the community banking space, developing digital strategies and content to help smaller institutions compete with larger financial service providers in a highly competitive industry. He received his Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Marketing from Eastern Connecticut State University. In his free time, Evan likes to play and watch soccer, kayaking, paddleboarding and attempting to grow vegetables.

Francesca Crivello is the Operations Coordinator for the Center for Career Development. Francesca manages and assists in the performance of programs and events; evaluates supplemental resources; supervises student employees; assists in the preparation of budgets and monitors expenses; and directs departmental workflow. Prior to her role at the Center for Career Development, Francesca worked for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, compiling application materials and processing them through the online system. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Linguistics, and Psychology and a Minor in Business Administration from UConn.

I am one of the Assistant Directors for the Corporate Partner Relations team at the Center for Career Development, primarily working with employers from the Greater Hartford and Boston regions. I am dedicated to connecting employers to top UConn talent and meeting all their recruiting needs. In addition to connecting students with employers, I assist with developing the best strategies for corporate partners and their recruiting plans, including career related events, programming, and other networking events. I have been with UConn since December 2019, and previously served as the Corporate Partner Relations Coordinator.

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Bio

Hometown: Coventry, CT

Things I enjoy: Although my role here at the Center for Career Development is not student facing, I do enjoy working with all the interns in our office and offering guidance when asked. It brings me nothing but joy to see our interns accepting job offers and summer internships at the end of the year and watching them reach their goals. When not at work, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family and friends, and going for walks/hikes. My favorite hike I have ever done is Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park.

Advice to students:
Be open to different ideas and paths. Whether it’s working in a different industry than you expected or taking the summer internship with a smaller employer vs. a Fortune 500 company. Most things you will learn during your career at UConn, and in life, can be transferable and relate to other career paths. I, for example, thought I would become a wedding planner when I first started college. I never once worked as a “wedding planner” per say, but instead worked in sales at different hotels. Those roles did indeed include working with wedding couples, although it was not the main aspect of my job. 8 years post grad, I am now working in Higher Ed, which I never thought was in my future, and very much using my sales experience while working with employers that want to recruit with UConn!

Education

University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA
Bachelor of Science, Hospitality & Tourism Management
Favorite Project: Serving at Registration Chair for the student run Hospitality & Tourism Career Day.

Previous Roles

• Corporate Partner Relations Coordinator – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Sales Manager – Delamar Hotels, West Hartford, CT
• Sales Coordinator, Inn at Middletown, Middletown, CT

Judith (Judi) Trzcinski joined the Center for Career Development as a Career Coach in August 2018. She partners with students and recent alumni via one-on-one sessions to discuss career topics such as resume and cover letter writing, interviewing preparation, job & internship search, major and career exploration, graduate school application preparation, and developing LinkedIn profiles. Her in-depth business knowledge, leadership and teaching expertise affords UConn students and alumni with targeted coaching and expert career advice that deliver demonstrated results.

Following a successful career as a Human Resource Executive, where she was viewed as a trusted advisor and approachable leader, Judi has taken her enthusiasm and years of professional experience in the corporate arena, to higher education.  In addition to her position with UConn, she is an adjunct professor at the University of Hartford, a position she has held since 2007.  She has designed and facilitates coursework that prepares students to succeed in a career in healthcare and healthcare management.

She spends her free time devoted to volunteering with two exceptional organizations. 1) Dress for Success where she utilizes her coaching and mentoring expertise with clients in the development of career tools to help them thrive in work and in life. 2) Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary where she combines her love for animals and deep desire to help those that cannot help themselves through this organization’s mission to do right by all animals regardless of the challenge or cost.

Judi holds a Master of Education from Cambridge College, and a Master of Science in Organizational Behavior from the University of Hartford.

In my role, I lead and manage career service and programming operations that center on the career development of  graduate students (master’s and doctoral), international students (undergraduate and graduate), and postdoc fellows. I enjoy advocating for career needs in and beyond academic departments, supporting career diversity exploration, and contributing toward greater transparency in career outcomes. I frequently consult with faculty and departments that seek to integrate career milestones within degree programs and curricula, addressing barriers to career success. I also enjoy one-on-one career coaching appointments, providing an attentive space for individuals to pause, reflect, wonder, discover, design, and move forward toward career options and opportunities. 

I manage the Career Center’s undergraduate student intern program. Having previously been called “the intern mom” by one intern, I truly enjoy building relationships with our interns and designing thoughtful and engaging opportunities for them to build confidence in their personal and professional skillsets. I also oversee the department’s Undergraduate Résumé Critique and Practice Interview Programs. I am a Certified Professional Résumé Writer through the Professional Association of Résumé Writers and Career Coaches (PARWCC) and meet with students one-on-one for coaching on various topics including résumés, cover letters, career/major exploration, interviewing, and general career development. Before coming to UConn, I spent almost a decade working in corporate recruiting which is where my love of career and career-development started. My current position allows me the opportunity to combine two of my professional strengths and interest areas (Human Resources and student/talent-development) while still being able to learn and grow my own personal interests as well. I have successfully made a career out of careers and I absolutely love it!

Being a Career Consultant though is only my professional identity, there is still so much more for me to share. When I’m not performing the day-to-day functions of my role, I also identify as a UConn alum (CLAS ’04), a working mother, a widow, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a mentor, a PTO board member, an athlete, a Baltimore Ravens fan, a music lover, and more. Come stop by the Center for Career Development and get to know me; I’m always excited to meet with students and build connections!

Bio

Hometown: Vernon, CT

Work Interest Holland Code: SAE (Social, Artistic, Enterprising). Why is this important for me to include even though you may not know what it is?  It speaks to my personality perfectly! I am extroverted by nature and truly enjoy talking with people and helping them as much as possible. I also have a great sense of humor and incorporate that into everything I do, including presentations, training sessions, and career coaching appointments.

(To discover your top three occupational interests and/or learn more about the Holland Code, visit the Focus2 resource on our website.)

Things I enjoy: I love playing “host” and bringing people together to have fun by planning various events and gatherings. Be it professional team building activities or backyard picnics, there is nothing I can’t plan or theme I can’t organize! I also enjoy crafting, spending time with my sons, hanging out with my dog, and watching HGTV! I’m an avid volleyball player, I live for football season, and enjoy going to as many fairs and carnivals as possible during the Fall.

Advice to students: It’s OK not to have all the answers. It’s OK not to know what tomorrow looks like. All that matters is that you set goals for exploration! Remember, it’s OK to ask for help. That is often the hardest things any of us have to do in life but opening the door for others to offer guidance might make the paths ahead look a little clearer. Lastly, and most importantly, HAVE FUN! Don’t get too caught up in “fitting a mold”, make the journey your own and don’t look back saying “I wish I had…”.  Nothing is ever so finite that you can’t adjust your course of direction along the way.

Education University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT Bachelor of Arts, Journalism

Most memorable academic moment: Editing video footage for a class project only to realize that the interview audio was not there; I forgot to check the batteries in the microphone before the interview! I managed to put something together, but it was a lesson I will NEVER forget. ALWAYS check the battery levels!

UConn Activities: WHUS (board member and DJ) and Women’s Club Volleyball

Previous Roles

• Career Consultant – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• University Relations Specialist – The Hartford, Hartford, CT
• Sr. Staffing Coordinator – The Hartford, Windsor, CT
• Staffing Coordinator/Receptionist – The Hartford, Windsor, CT
• Service Specialist – The Hartford, Simsbury, CT
• Public Safety Dispatcher – East Hartford Police Department, East Hartford, CT
• Case Specialist- General Securities Systems Corp.- West Hartford, CT

Lauren Rosenkranz, MSEd, is an experienced college career counselor that specializes in working with students and alumni on all aspects of their job search process.  She has taught the First Year Experience course since 2018 as well as career workshops on networking, LinkedIn, resume writing and interviewing skills.  Lauren is passionate about helping individuals make the most of their college experience and successfully launch their careers.

Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management from the University of Michigan and a Master of Science in Education—Counseling & Guidance, from Hunter College. She has also earned a Certificate in Adult Career Planning and Development from New York University.

She currently serves as a Career Consultant for the Center for Career Development on the Stamford Campus providing comprehensive career services, in-class presentations and support to the First Year Experience program.

In my role, I manage assessment and technology for the Center. I’m the tech “go-to” person for the team responsible for implementation, maintenance, and technical support. As a former political science major, I’ve always loved research and my career journey led me to my current role where I also manage data collection, research, analysis and reporting. One of my favorite projects is coordinating “Huskies Moving On” where I collect and disseminate “first destination” information about our student’s career journeys.

Bio
Hometown: Canton, CT

Things I enjoy: In my free time I enjoy music and performing, boating, running, and spending time with family. While on campus, I enjoy meals in downtown Storrs, catching a basketball game, and working with fellow Center for Career Development staff.

Advice to students:
“You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.” – Daniel Milstein

Education

Drew University, Madison, New Jersey
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Favorite Experience/Project: Semester abroad in Brussels, Belgium. Intensive study of the European Union.

Previous Roles

• Assistant Director, Assessment & Technology – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Assistant Director, Programming – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Director of Career Services – Goodwin College, East Hartford, CT
• Director of Business Development – Envision EMI LLC, Vienna, VA

In my role, I design and lead initiatives to ensure the Center for Career Development is prioritizing equity and inclusion in all of our resources and services. Opportunities to have difficult conversations about the way identity impacts career decisions are some of my favorite parts of my job, especially as someone who has had to navigate the working world as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a person with an “invisible” disability. I also enjoy having all different types of career conversations with students, particularly about exploring careers since I come from a family of engineers and have forged my own path in business/education. I’m always excited to connect with students during one-on-one coaching appointments, faculty members during class visits or curriculum consultations, and alumni who are willing to share their perspective with current students. 

Bio

Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY (Long Island)

Things I enjoy: I’m an extrovert and love being in a group setting, whether at work or at home. Outside of work, I volunteer with an ed-tech nonprofit working to amplify diverse youth voices through publishing, leadership development, and digital community. I’m also an avid soccer player, have a massive board game collection, and enjoy crafting by writing handwritten letters or designing custom gifts with my Cricut.

Advice to students: When choosing a career path, it’s easy to feel a lot of pressure to make the “perfect” decision. If you can, try not to think about it that way. Instead, focus on making a good decision. There can be many good decisions available to you, and that’s great! As long as your decision meets your needs and makes you happy, you’ve made the right decision for you. And remember, you can always change your mind and make a different decision in the future.

Education

University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
Master of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affairs
Favorite Project: Competing in a national case study competition about making higher ed more inclusive for trans students and winning first place!

Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Certificate, Diversity and Inclusion
Favorite Project: Interviewing the CEO of a nonprofit about how she fosters an inclusive climate within the organization.

Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration – Management
Study Abroad: Madrid and Barcelona, Spain
Favorite Experience: Becoming Microsoft Excel certified my sophomore year and then helping over 500 other students become certified as a teaching assistant for the class that teaches Microsoft Excel for 2 years.

Previous Roles

• Career Consultant – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Graduate Assistant – UConn Center for Career Development, Storrs, CT
• Resident Counselor – Summer Discovery at Georgetown University, Georgetown, DC

While I don’t work with students directly as a part of my role, I enjoy talking with them and learning where they want to go after UConn. I work with employers – big, small, for-profit, not-for-profit and government agencies – interested in hiring the amazing talent we have at UConn. The most enjoyable part of my job is meeting recruiters and learning about their organizations – their culture, their jobs and their industry – then sharing it with our career coaches who share with students. There are so many interesting careers and roles in some fascinating organizations available to our students! I also enjoy linking majors and job qualifications outside linear career paths, and thinking outside the traditional box and traditional roles – does an employer need someone detail-oriented and analytical? How about a math major?

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Bio

Hometown: South Windsor, CT

Things I enjoy: I’m an outdoors and sports enthusiast – especially all things Huskies! An alum, I’ve been to numerous Final Fours, LOTS of college football games (UConn season tickets), UConn baseball, softball, soccer and field hockey games. I love to ski, hike, golf and do anything outdoors…except camp. I’m an extrovert and love to learn about what motivates and excites others. I truly believe in “six degrees of separation,” and am determined to discover it whenever I meet someone new. Thus, networking is my “thing.”

Advice to students:
Ask questions – be curious. People love to talk about themselves – listen to their stories to become a better story teller yourself. Ask employers questions because you’ve probably never heard of 90% of the companies looking to hire you…but they have some amazing opportunities.

Use your career center! We’re all here for you. We’re connectors – let us connect you.

A career path can take twists and turns both intentionally and without notice. Embrace change and don’t be afraid to take risks. The career you choose now is probably not the career you’ll find yourself in later. Take something from each experience and apply it to your future.

Education

UConn, Storrs, CT
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Internship, Office of Senator Lowell Weicker; Club ski team

Bates College, Lewiston, ME
Political Science
Study Abroad: Dorchester, England – The study of Thomas Hardy and his works
Varsity field hockey, alpine ski team.

Previous Roles

• Director, Public Affairs, Ct. Business & Industry Association
• Vice President, Government & Community Relations, People’s Bank, Bridgeport, CT
• Manager, Mortgage Processing Department, People’s Bank, Hartford, CT
• Leadership Development Rotational Program, People’s Bank, Bridgeport, CT
• Aide, Offices of Congresswoman Nancy Johnson (CT); Senator Lowell Weicker (CT), Washington, DC

Volunteer Roles

• Co-founder, Secretary, Operation Respect, CT
• Vice President, UConn Alumni Association
• Vice President, UConn Alumni Association, Hartford Chapter
• Chair, CT Child Day Care Council
• Chair, Hartford Area Child Care Collaborative

In my role, I’m dedicated to connecting employers with UConn talent. I primarily partner with employers who hire in the Eastern CT, Rhode Island and New Haven areas, as well as those who recruit from the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources. I enjoy learning about organizations and supporting them in developing a strategy for engaging and recruiting our incredible UConn students and alumni.

Bio

Hometown: Norwich, CT

Things I enjoy: I love spending time outside, going for walks, and traveling. Some of my favorite destinations have included Italy, Iceland, Hawaii and Scotland. 

Advice to students: Make the most of this time by pursuing internships and other exploratory experiences. I changed my major several times while pursuing my undergraduate degree. Each time, my decision was influenced by trying new internships which helped me learn more about myself and pointed me closer to the best career path for me. Each opportunity provided me with valuable insights into different industries, roles and organizations. Never stop exploring the possibilities until you find something that resonates with you. 

Education

Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ
Master of Education, Human Relations

Emmanuel College, Boston, MA
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Study Abroad: Florence, Italy
Favorite Experience: Working with the MATCH Charter Public High School, supporting students one-on-one by providing job coaching. 

Previous Roles

• Employment Program Manager – RAF Lakenheath Airman & Family Readiness Center, England
• Training & Quality Assurance Manager – University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
• Admissions Coordinator – University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
• Admissions Counselor – Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, MA
• Employment Specialist – Reliance Health, Norwich, CT

Pamela Zagami is the Administrative Services Specialist to James R. Lowe, Assistant Vice Provost / Executive Director of the Center for Career Development and Fiscal Officer for the department.   She focuses on budgetary, personnel, and business operations and is the department’s Security Liaison for Human Capital Management and a Readiness Council Member for new university initiatives and programs / platforms / processes.  Pam provides department-wide support including project development and management, event planning, and travel.  As Fiscal Officer, Pam is responsible for budget management, procurement, annual budget construction, as well as annual GUF submissions.   She is a departmental liaison to the Provost Office, Human Resources, Labor Relations, Contracts, Procurement, Budget, Accounting, Cash Operations, UConn Foundation, among others.

Prior to joining UConn, Pam was a Senior Manager with Deloitte’s Office of National Immigration, overseeing the Tax Practice’s immigration program and was the Firm’s I-9 Specialist for Human Resources in the United States. She received her Bachelor of Music degree from New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA.

In my role, I help coordinate all the programming that the Center for Career Development puts on including presentations for classes or student organizations, panels, webinars, and workshops. I also work one on one with students to assist them within a variety of career-related topics such as career and major exploration, interview preparation, and post-graduation opportunities.

When I was an undergraduate student, I did not utilize my university’s career center (to be honest, I’m not positive I could have told you that there WAS a career center on my campus until my senior year). As a first-generation student, I didn’t know that there were resources I could have used to make my life easier when it came to career. Now, as a Career Consultant, I want to help students realize that there are people and tools here at the Center for Career Development that can provide much needed support no matter where they are within their career journey.

Bio

Hometown: Amesbury, MA

Things I enjoy: I love helping students navigate a time in their life that can be so exciting and stressful all at the same time. I find great joy in being a part of a student realizing their full potential and opportunity. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking for my friends and family as a way to bring people together. I also am an avid fantasy football player and huge Star Wars nerd. May the force be with you throughout your career!

Advice to students:
Almost everything you do while you are a student helps qualify you for future experiences. I can think of dozens of students that I have worked with who feel like they are not qualified for a position or an internship because they don’t have directly relevant experience, when they actually had so many things that made them a good fit. Everything you choose to participate in, from your courses and extracurricular activities to part-time work and community service, has developed essential skills that are going to be useful going forward. Give yourself credit for what you have done and know that you are worthy of that internship, graduate school, position, or whatever else it is!

Education

Merrimack College, North Andover, MA
Master of Education, Higher Education – Student Affairs
Favorite Project: My thesis project, “Managing the Student Faces of a College: A Benchmarking Study on the Best Practices of Student Ambassador Programs”

Westfield State University, Westfield, MA
Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies – Mathematics, Psychology, and Communication
Favorite Experience: Planning events as the president of the Campus Activities Board for students to enjoy during their time on campus.

Previous Roles

• Professional Development Seminar Instructor – Nichols College Career & Professional Development Center, Dudley, MA
• Associate Director – Nichols College Office of Admissions, Dudley, MA
• Assistant Director – Nichols College Office of Admissions, Dudley, MA
• Admissions Counselor – Nichols College Office of Admissions, Dudley, MA
• Graduate Fellow – Merrimack College Office of Admissions, North Andover, MA

Susan O’Connor has over 20 years of corporate experience working for various companies such as Gartner and Cengage Learning (formerly Thomson Learning) holding leadership roles within Talent Management. She has held global responsibility for designing and implementing many programs such as Performance Management, Succession Management, Learning & Development, e-Learning, Leadership & Management Programs, Career Development, 360 Feedback instruments and best in class talent technology solutions and systems over the years.

After a successful corporate career focusing on enterprise solutions, Susan returned to graduate school, reinventing herself by securing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate.  She also holds a Master’s in Industrial Organization Psychology from Fairfield University and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Sacred Heart University. She currently serves as a Career Consultant for the Center for Career Development on the Stamford Campus providing comprehensive career services, workshop and programs for undergraduate students and alumni.

I lead career services and programming for the regional campuses. Hard for me to believe it sometimes, but I’ve been in the career development field for about 20 years. I still remember my undergraduate days as a first gen college student and, based on my experiences, one of my passions is working with first gen and diverse student populations. I serve on the Center for Career Development Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee and oversee the First Gen Affinity Community. My motivation for working in career development is to support students’ career journeys and to help create access to equitable and meaningful life transformative opportunities. My favorite part of my job is witnessing students achieve their goals, big or small.

Learn more about me here: Conquering Imposter Syndrome _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bio

Hometown: Bridgeport, CT

Things I enjoy: I consider myself to be a socially-conscious creative. It is essential for me to have a career that provides space to have fun, explore, and most importantly, to make a difference. I love brainstorming with my colleagues and coming up with new ideas. Program planning is an exciting part of my role because it allows me to be innovative and try out new things. I grew up in an artistic family and the arts remain a huge part of my life. Whether I am creating artwork, planning a program, or developing resources I want to inspire and help others and contribute to a greater good.

Advice to students: I have spoken to many students who feel like everyone else has it all figured out except for them. They are anxious about making a decision on a major or career path because they don’t want to make the “wrong” choice, believing that what they decide now will be a life-long, irreversible decision. Although I validate these feelings (of course, these are important decisions) I also want students to understand that this is an ongoing journey that extends far beyond college. All we can do is start going in a certain direction. Have a goal in mind but be open to those chance events that will inevitably occur. Those twists and turns will lead to many surprisingly positive things that couldn’t be planned for or imagined. You will meet people, discover new interests, and be presented with opportunities that will continually contribute to your professional development. Have a plan, but be ready for and welcome the unexpected.

Education

Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT

Master of Arts, Community Counseling

Emerson College, Boston, MA

Bachelor of Science in Speech, Major: Advertising

Favorite Experience: In my senior year, I took on the challenge of revamping a defunct student club, Emerson’s Black Student Organization, EBONI. Our leadership team successfully re-established EBONI as a recognized student organization, gained funding, cultivated membership, and increased campus visibility resulting in being awarded Student Organization of the Year! Talking about this experience in an interview helped me to land my first entry-level position upon graduation.

Previous Roles

• Assistant Director – UConn Center for Career Development, Stamford, CT
• Assistant Director – Purchase College, SUNY, Purchase, NY
• Assistant Director – Teikyo Post University, Waterbury, CT
• Academic Coordinator – Albertus Magnus College, New Haven, CT
• Program Coordinator – Upward Bound (TRIO), Fairfield, CT
• Academic Counselor – Project Excel/Student Support Services (TRIO), Fairfield, CT

In my current role, my priority is to leverage my more than twenty years of experience in talent acquisition and career services to help students explore and pursue their career goals. One of my favorite ways of doing so, involves working with them on developing their personal brands. This for me serves as a catalyst that empowers them to take ownership of their careers and leverage all available career tools and resources at their disposal. As a career consultant there is no better feeling than witnessing the moment a student realizes that they are not “just another brick in the wall” and are able to articulate their unique value proposition.

Another part of my role focuses on collaborating with employers to ensure that they have access to great student talent, while also supporting them in effectively communicating their employer brand to their target audience. As one of my mentors used to say, “ when talent meets opportunity, great things can happen”.

Finally, I conduct regular assessments of the student-facing CCD career technology, to determine its value and return on investment for students, staff, and faculty.

Bio

Hometown: Athens, Greece and another 5 cities across 3 continents.

Things I enjoy: Listening to my daughter play “Nothing Else Matters” on the piano. Playing team sports. Coaching my U15 Girls soccer team. Telling bad jokes.

Advice to students: “Forever trusting who we are and nothing else matters” – Metallica

Education

University of Westminster, London, UK
Master of Arts, International Business and Management
Thesis: Foreign Direct Investment in Eastern Europe

Southbank University, London, UK
Bachelor of Arts, European Community Studies
Favorite Course: Political Ideologies

Previous Roles

• Associate Director – Career Management UConn Full-time MBA Program , Hartford, CT
• Full-time MBA Career Strategy Advisor – UConn School of Business, Hartford, CT
• Organizational Development & Recruitment Strategy Advisor – American Red Cross, CT
• HR Project Manager, Corporate Planning – Piraeus Bank Group, Athens, Greece
• Head of Human Resources – Piraeus Direct Services, Athens, Greece
• Senior Recruitment Officer – Piraeus Bank Group, Athens, Greece
• Talent Acquisition & Development Specialist – WIND Hellas, Athens, Greece
• Human Resources Business Partner – EFG Eurobank, Athens, Greece
• Talent Acquisition Specialist – EFG Eurobank, Athens, Greece

Wendy Kopp

Corporate Partner Relations Coordinator | Pronouns: she/her/hers

I enjoy organizing events and opportunities to bring people together, namely our employer partners and our students! Attending one of our Career Fairs is a great way to network and see who is hiring in your interest areas. Even if you are a first or second-year student, it is never too early to engage and see what the fairs are all about. Handshake is another great resource for students to connect with employers to see what positions they are hiring …from internships and co-ops to part-time and full-time jobs. Every student is issued a Handshake account, so be sure to utilize it and discover what is out there for you!

Bio

Hometown: Wallingford, CT – and currently live in Andover, CT

Things I enjoy: 

Flipping Furniture! I love to save (intercept) furniture from the landfill. I refinish pieces and make them pretty again so they can live on and be enjoyed by others.  It’s pretty cool that my alum husband loves to do this too! We feature our pieces along with other local artisans at a shop called Over AndOver in Andover, CT.

Giving Back! In 2011, I started a clothing drive for the Andover Food Pantry which takes place every year in December. This event is orchestrated through Andover Elementary School where the town is invited to “Stuff A Bus” with clothing and food. Volunteers help to unload and set up the items at the church where families can take whatever they need. It is very heartwarming to help those in need who look forward to this event which continues to be supported by donations and volunteers every year.

Advice to students:
I have found that every position in my life has prepared me for the next. So don’t worry so much about one not being “perfect” at the start or even thereafter. Allow yourself to learn and take on special projects which will ultimately enhance your knowledge and increase your ability to meet more people. Volunteering has also helped me build by resume and my network too!

Education

University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
English and Communications

Favorite Project: As a student I volunteered to update the Internship list for the Communications School and ended up finding my first job from that same list! I took a chance they were hiring and sent a general cover letter and resume. Their first response was they were not, but a few months later they got back to me about an open position and I got it… Account Executive in Marketing and Radio Promotions at CRN International in Hamden, CT!

Favorite Experience: Playing UConn Women’s Rugby for my entire college career and making friends who are still in my life today. We traveled throughout New England to play other colleges and competed in tournaments in Baton Rouge, Colorado Springs and Houston where we won the National Women’s Collegiate Rugby Championship in 1993 (first since the team was formed in 1976).  I continued to play rugby for the Hartford Wild Rose Rugby Club for a 17-year run with the sport. I married a UConn rugger and our wedding party consisted of 99% rugby players. (Fun fact: The Men’s team just celebrated their 50^th year as a club in November 2021 with 200 alumni in attendance!)

Previous Roles

• Culture Champion at Graduate Storrs Hotel (right on campus)
• Director of Marketing at Panera Bread for bakery-cafes in CT, RI and MA
  • (Fun Fact: Created their Marketing Internship Program through our very own Center for Career Development! Beth Settje was my then contact (now colleague) who helped me with the process to work with our UConn’s incredible talent.
• Marketing Manager at Radio Disney

Wendy Turdo is the Career Consultant, responsible for career coaching and career development services on the UConn-Avery Point Campus.

Wendy joined the UConn team after serving in numerous professional roles in the private sector and higher education over the past 20 years.  Her diverse portfolio includes extensive Human Resource/Corporate Recruiting experience while working at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Volkswagen Group of America-Corporate Headquarters and the Home Shopping Network (HSN).  Additionally, she served as the Associate Director of Relationship Management (Career Development) at Yale University’s School of Management and as the Assistant Director of Graduate Admission at Columbia University’s Teachers College.

Most recently, Wendy was the Program Manager at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s Admiral James M. Loy Institute for Leadership.

A graduate of Fairfield University, she also holds a certificate in Human Resources Management from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and a certificate in Coaching from the Air Force Academy’s Mosaic Character and Leadership Coaching Program.

In my role, I oversee the career center operations, career coaching, and programming at the Hartford campus. I meet one on one with undergraduate and graduate students on a variety of topics such as career exploration, application, and interview preparation, job and internship searches, graduate school preparation, salary negotiation, and much more. I proactively collaborate with my colleagues to deliver equitable access to career and professional development-related resources, services, and opportunities.

Bio

Hometown: Bridgeport, CT Things I enjoy: In my free time, I enjoy photography, gardening, and cooking. playing video games, hosting people, and spending quality time with family. When I’m on campus, I enjoy conversing with students and colleagues on campus. My pronouns are he him and his and I am a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, DIYer, gamer, sports fanatic, and gardener. MBTI: ESFP – (Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving) Advice to students: “Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us.” — Susan L. Taylor

Education

Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT

• Master of Science, Counselor Education, and Family Therapy
• Concentration, Student Development in Higher Education

Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT

• Bachelor of Arts in History, Minor: Social Science
• Studied Abroad: Ghana, Africa, and Montego, Bey, Jamaica

Favorite Experience:

• Completed a summer internship for the National Park Service in San Francisco, California during my rising senior summer.

Previous Roles

• Career Consultant, Center for Career Development, UConn, Storrs, CT
• Assistant Director, Center for Career & Professional Development, Albertus Magnus College, New Haven, CT
• Career Intern, Integrative Career Development, Mitchell College, New London, CT
• Academic Coach, The Learning Center, Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT
• Paraprofessional, Milner Elementary, Hartford Public School, Hartford, CT