Career Coaching

30-minute coach appointment

15-minute drop-in appointment

45-minute practice interview

45-minute case practice 

Meet the Career Coaches

Rebecca Dordel

She/Her
dordel@umn.edu

rebeccadordel.appointments.umn.edu

Associate Director, Student Life and Career Design

Learn more about Rebecca

My favorite student appointments start with, "I have no idea what I'm doing." I enjoy working with students who are asking big questions like, "What do I like, what does success mean to me, or what do I want to do?" and  breaking it down into manageable steps to work towards answers and a plan. 

I became a career coach because I also attended a large Big Ten institution, and a counselor at my school helped me figure out what I liked about my major, myself, and how I wanted to take those strengths and apply them in my work identity. My goal is to support students on their journey in finding the same clarity. 

In my free time I am a consumer of all things audio- podcasts, books and music. You'll find me enjoying those things walking my big dog Henry, on a bike ride, or doing some of my least favorite chores like folding laundry.

Katie Hauge

She/Her/Hers

haugek@umn.edu 

Specialty Areas: Finance, Finance & Risk Management Insurance, Investments & Capital Markets

katiehauge.appointments.umn.edu 

Learn more about Katie

My goal when working with students is that after our time together, they can walk away having learned something, and feel confident in taking the next steps. Career development is an adventure, and I am here to help along the way. It is simply the coolest thing to see students go through and grow through their career development journey.

In my free time I like to be active doing anything outdoors including biking, hiking, and enjoying the lake (both frozen and not). I love almost all sports both as a spectator and competitor. I most recently have found a love for CrossFit and even have a couple of competitions under my belt.

Britney Hayes

She/Her/Hers

bhayes@umn.edu 

Specialty Area: Major and Career Exploration and Campus Life 

Learn more about Britney

As a career coach my goal is to support students with navigating and overcoming barriers in their career development journey. My favorite coaching appointments are on topics that may seem challenging or intimidating, such as offer evaluation and negotiation, interviewing, and networking.

I am the first in my family to attend college and earn both a bachelor's and master's degree. As an undergraduate, I studied Psychology, then completed my grad program in Counseling and Student Personnel with an emphasis in College Student Affairs; which I tell people is a long title for working with college students. During grad school I really enjoyed my Career Development and Counseling courses, and I completed an internship working as a Career Advisor in our Career Center. These experiences led to my career interest in working in Career Services. My specialty area focuses on students who are exploring their own career interests and I look forward to helping students choose a career path and/or major they feel confident about. 

In my free time I enjoy cooking, dancing, game nights, brunching, and traveling with friends!

Laura Heilman

She/Her/Hers

lheilman@umn.edu

Specialty Area: Major and Career Exploration and Campus Life 

Learn more about Laura

As a first-generation student, I entered college with very limited ideas about what majors or careers I wanted to pursue - all I knew was that I wanted to help people (and that I didn’t want to take over the family meat business). With this knowledge, I allowed myself to explore courses and experiences that gave me insight and exposure into how humans grow, behave, and communicate. This led to a double major in Psychology and Communication. With this foundation, my career exploration journey extended beyond graduation, where I gained valuable experience working with high school and college students, eventually earning a Master’s Degree in Leadership in Student Affairs. Throughout these experiences, I found deep fulfillment for helping students navigate their own college experience and design lives and careers that align with their values. Thriving in creativity, collaboration, and connection, I am in my element when I get to make deep connections with others, envision future possibilities, and strategize about how we can create more diverse, inclusive, accessible, and equitable spaces. As the Assistant Director for Student Life and Career Design at Carlson, I strive to lead with empathy, authenticity, vulnerability, and with an equity lens.

My love language is laughing and connecting with others over food. You can usually find me with a snack (or looking for one) and I’m always willing to share! Connect with me over the joys of parenthood, my cat, food, exercise, travel, home projects, reality TV, and entrepreneurship.

Annie Vangsnes

She/Her/Hers

annie@umn.edu

Specialty Areas: Management Information Systems, Supply Chain & Operations Management, Consulting

annie.appointments.umn.edu

Learn more about Annie

I love helping students explore their interests, clarify goals, and calm some of the stress of career planning and the job search. 

Before becoming a career coach, I worked as a newspaper reporter and in communications and marketing. I'm a transplant to Minnesota, but grew up in even colder North Dakota. I love the snow and winter, but love lake swimming even more! 

Lisa Novack

She/Her/Hers

nova0148@umn.edu

Director of Student Engagement & Career Development

Learn more about Lisa

Figuring out what you want to major in or what path you want to pursue after college can be overwhelming. Our team is here to help you design a college and career experience that is meaningful to you, while bringing clarity and action oriented steps to the process! I enjoy helping students uncover their interests and develop strategies to reach their goals- no matter what career path, organization, or industry you are interested in.

I completed my undergraduate degree from the Carlson School with majors in Marketing, Entrepreneurial Management, and a minor in Human Resources & Industrial Relations! After a short stint in the corporate world, I returned to grad school and have worked in higher education roles ever since, supporting students in areas of career coaching, leadership development, academic advising, and student activities. Outside of work, I spend lots of time with my family. Chai tea and ice cream are my favorite treats, and I like to Stand Up Paddle Board, run, and explore MN State Parks.

Zain Olson

He/Him/His

zolson@umn.edu

Specialty Areas: Carlson Crew Program, Major and Career Exploration, and Campus Life

Learn more about Zain

As an instructor for BA1021: Designing Your Life, I love helping students use design thinking to build a life and a career that aligns with their aspirations, interests, and values. My goal is to help you get more out of your college experience rather than trying to cram more into it! 

Outside of work, you can find me exploring the Twin Cities restaurant scene, biking around the rivers and lakes, skiing in the wintertime, watching movies at a local theater, and playing clarinet in a community band.

Caroline Quinn

She/Her/Hers

quinn655@umn.edu

Specialty Area: Major and Career Exploration and Campus Life

Learn more about Caroline

When working with students, my goal is to be a trusted resource and ally in achieving their goals. Whether this means exploring a career path, major, or joining a student organization, I like to help students find that “starting place” in their journey and give them a supportive space to bounce off ideas and try new things. College was a very transformative experience for me, and I’m eager to help students find experiences that shape who they want to be.

In my role at Carlson I work with all of our Carlson Affiliated student orgs and our Women’s Business Network LLC. I was previously an Academic Coach at Iowa State University, where I coached students on study and time management skills. Originally I am from Iowa and have strong roots there, but have loved my time so far as a Minnesota transplant exploring my neighborhood’s many restaurants, parks, and shops. I also spend lots of time with my tortoiseshell cat named Honey, and love to spoil her with new toys and lots of attention. 

Shontel Smith

She/Her/Hers

sosmith@umn.edu

Specialty Areas: Marketing, Entrepreneurial Management, Human Resources & Industrial Relations

shontel.appointments.umn.edu 

Learn more about Shontel

I get excited whenever I have the opportunity to problem solve with students, big or small! I became a career coach because meeting with students to discuss their future has always energized me. I enjoy working with students to set goals that help them take action whether they are looking to get a resume checked out, trying to navigate an internship/job search, or are contemplating big questions like “What am I going to do with my life?” My hope is that students leave an appointment feeling like they have some idea of what comes next and know that they have a strong support system here at the Carlson School. 

When I am not at work I love to find ways to enjoy nature through lake days, hammocking, camping, or just sitting and enjoying the outdoors. I try to bring a bit of nature indoors through my growing plant collection! I also enjoy cooking and baking, I frequently try out my new recipes on friends, family, and coworkers! 

Mai Xiong

She/Her/Hers

xiong968@umn.edu

Specialty Areas: Accounting, Public & Nonprofit Management, and International Business

mai.appointments.umn.edu

Learn more about Mai

One of the things I love most about working with students is seeing them grow and develop into confident individuals. I approach much of my work with students as a partnership where I am learning from them just as much as they are learning from me.

 Before becoming a career coach, I suppported students who were first generation in navigating the college and career process. I became a career coach because I was a first-generation college graduate who struggled with navigating the career development process, but was fortunate to have counselors and mentors who guided me through the process. My goal is to continue supporting students with overcoming barriers and navigating institutional systems while providing space for students to show up authenticly throughout their career development process.

In my free time, you can find me crocheting, cross-stiching, traveling and decluttering junk throughout my house.  

Meet the Peer Career Coaches

Peer Career Coaches are available to meet during the academic year for in-person appointments between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday or virtual appointments 4-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Practice interviews are offered between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and can be in person or virtual.

Schedule an appointment at slcd.appointments.umn.edu.

Check in for appointments with peer career coaches in the Gold Lobby (Hanson Hall 2-190).

Sarah Braginsky

she/her

Senior | MIS and HR 

Learn more about Sarah

On campus, I’m pretty involved in Delta Sigma Pi, a business fraternity, and I’ve previously been involved in CoMIS and GLOBE. This upcoming school year I will be a part of CCE (Carlson Consulting Enterprise). This summer I’m interning at PwC in deals transformation consulting. My internship is in Boston and I’m super excited to spend the summer somewhere new since I’m from the Twin Cities. In my free time, I love spending time outdoors, specifically hiking and biking in the summer and skiing in the winter. I also enjoy going to coffee shops and checking out new restaurants. As a PCC, I’m most looking forward to connecting with other students and helping them reach their goals!

Ingrid Hildebrand 

she/her

Senior | MIS and International Business

Learn more about Ingrid

My name is Ingrid Hildebrand and I am a Senior majoring in Management Information Systems and International Business. This past summer I interned at JP Morgan in New York City and had a great time working on different projects. On campus, I am a Carlson Ambassador, member of CoMIS Case Competition board, Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity and GLOBE. Previously I was a Covid-19 Research Assistant, in the Carlson Ventures Enterprise, and Business Board. In my free time, I enjoy listening to podcasts on long walks around the cities, playing tennis, traveling, and finding new coffee shops. I am super excited to connect with students and aid with their college career journey on the PCC team.

Anna Houglum

she/her

Sophomore | MIS, minor in Business Analytics

Learn more about Anna

I am currently part of 180 Degrees Consulting as a project manager. Back home in Shakopee, MN, I am also a gymnastics coach! I actually did gymnastics for 9 years and now I have been a coach for 3 and it is one of my favorite things to do! This summer I have an internship with CliftonLarsonAllen as a Systems Analyst which I am super excited to start and learn all I can. I love spending time with my family, finding cool hiking places, and trying out new coffee shops. I am very excited to get started as a PCC in the fall as I have a passion for the Carlson community and I want to help undergraduate students find that community and work towards their career and personal goals. 

Leah Johnson

she/her

Sophomore | HRIR and International Business, minor in Spanish

Learn more about Leah

This past summer, I interned at WOW Logistics in Wisconsin. It was a great learning experience and I look forward to gaining more experience interning at NTE next summer. On campus, I’m involved in Delta Sigma Pi  professional business fraternity, SHRM and Women in Business. In my free time, I love traveling, cycling, boxing, trying out new restaurants and long walks with friends. As a PCC, I'm excited to connect with and assist fellow students in accomplishing their career and professional goals!

Callie Korth

she/her

Senior | Marketing and Strategic Communications

Learn more about Callie

Currently, I am involved in Backpack, a student advertising agency, as well as Carlson Business Board, Student Marketing Association, and Leadership Lab. Outside of that, I work shifts as a barback at the Varsity Theater! In terms of my summer plans, I am currently interning with Procter and Gamble as a sales intern on their laundry products (Tide, Downy, etc) in Boston, MA! As a first-generation student securing a successful internship without a 4.0 GPA, I want to help other students realize that they can do whatever they want, and support and guide them through interview processes! I am so excited to work with students this semester, and meet my fellow UBCC humans!

Whitney Le

she/her

Junior | MIS, Neuroscience and Genetics, minor in Business Analytics

Learn more about Whitney

I have been involved with the Vietnamese student association of Minnesota (VSAM) and  I will be their secretary starting this fall. I currently work as a microeconomics tutor at MCAE located in Appleby hall and I am a remote undergraduate researcher for a sociology study in CLA.. Within Carlson, I am a member of the business association of Multicultural students (BAM). My current summer plans are to help my mom out at her nail salon over the summer, take an online accounting course from my local community college, take a family vacation later in the summer to NYC, take a 2 day summer camp in Chicago with the larger branch of the Vietnamese association in the US (Midwest branch) as I'm part of their logistics committee this summer, and then head to Chicago again to explore the city of Chicago and attend the music festival Lollapalooza. I am an out of state student (born and raised in Missouri) and currently aspiring to be working in data analytics. Some hobbies of mine include attempting to exercise, going out to try new restaurants, attending concerts, listening to music, and watching kdramas or anime. In the role of a PCC, I am most excited about being able to help students review their resumes and show them how to improve it. 

Sabrina Li

she/her

Junior | Marketing and Finance, minor in Business Analytics

Learn more about Sabrina

I am currently a part of the Carlson Consulting Enterprise and also work as a TA for Marketing 3011. I have also been involved in the Chinese American Student Association (CASA), Undergraduate Consulting Club, and 180 Degrees Consulting. I have previously interned with Optum and UnitedHealthcare, and I am excited to join Deloitte Consulting as a Strategy Summer Scholar for the upcoming summer. In my free time, I love to sing, cook, and travel. I can’t wait to start the spring semester, meet new people, and help Carlson undergraduates achieve their goals!

Jonathan Walker

he/him

Senior |  Finance and International Business, minor in Business Analytics

Learn more about Jonathan

I interned at Allianz Life this past summer in the distribution division. I continue to intern part-time with my team during the school year. I am a part of the Carlson School Accounting Club (CSAC). I previously was the director of finance and am now the director of site visits. In my free time, I spend time with my friends and explore both Minneapolis and Saint Paul. I am looking forward to helping students as a PCC this upcoming semester. 

Alumni receive ongoing access to career support from the Carlson School of Management!

Peer Career Coaches abroad

Sarah Dysthe

she/her

Junior | HRIR, minor in Spanish

Learn more about Sarah

As a Carlson student, I value the importance of building connections within our community, so I am excited to be a part of the network of peer career coaches. I work as a communications intern for the National Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education. I have been involved with GLOBE and currently serve on the exec board of Phi Mu Fraternity. In my free time, I love running, golfing, and spending time outdoors. I look forward to meeting with students to help them navigate their education and career journey!

Erick Burgess 

he/him

Junior | Finance, minor in Statistics

Learn more about Erick

I have career aspirations in Investment Banking and Quant Trading. Over the summer, I plan to travel a bit before my internship starts with KPMG in June. A little about me - I'm the youngest of 5, I have a twin brother named Derek, my family is from Maple Grove, MN., and I have a passion for sneakers. I'm most excited to work with so many individuals and impact their careers as much as I can. I'm looking forward to meeting the team.