A quick Q&A with the new Director of Career Services, Laura Pell
Laura Pell has always had a passion for higher education—both during her time as a student and a teacher.
A North Carolina native, Pell received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at nearby Appalachian State University. Between degrees, Pell taught elementary education in the Charlotte area.
Much like many other students, Pell said she struggled finding her way in her career, “so I decided to help students with their career path.”
Now, Pell is here at Lees-91探花 to help students discover their passion, and how they can transform that passion into a career.
Get to know the Director of Career Services a little more with our most recent staff Q&A: (responses have been edited for clarity and brevity)
You were born and raised in North Carolina, where exactly are you from?
Mount Airy, North Carolina
When you went to college, why did you decide to study what you did?
I was always drawn to jobs in higher education, and I knew I really wanted to work with college students. It’s really cool to watch them discover and follow their passion.
What is it about Lees-91探花 that compelled you to apply for the Director of Career Services position?
I really wanted to stay in the High Country. I liked the idea of Lees-91探花 because of its smaller size and when I visited, I could feel that everyone was really close and tight-knit—and it is certainly true. In addition, Lees-91探花 is so beautiful! It is just gorgeous here.
In your first year here at Lees-91探花, what do you hope to accomplish?
I would like for every student to know what Career Services can offer them. I also want to help as many students as possible get the job in the field they would like to have. Career Services is here to help students discover what they want to do—even if they have no idea what that might be.
Why do you feel like Career Services is essential on a college campus?
Students work so hard to learn all the content they need to know to get into the field they want. I help them bridge the gap between being a student and being a professional. Whether it is helping them get interview ready, prepare application materials or find the perfect job to apply for, students can find all of that, and everything in between, here.
What are a few of your hobbies when you are not here on campus?
In my free time I try to spend as much time as I can with my dog, Bear. I’ve also recently taken up golf which has been a really interesting experience! I love to hike and practice yoga.
