Career Counselors

Alex is dedicated to serving the unique needs of our diverse student body, including our transfer, graduate, and international students. As a first-generation college student and first-generation American navigating an unfamiliar cultural and educational environment, Alex came to deeply appreciate the role that cultural and social capital play in students’ personal and professional growth.

His goal is to ensure that all students have access to the information, networks, and mentorship needed to make informed career decisions—and, just as importantly, to develop a positive, proactive, can-do attitude as they pursue their career paths.

Emily is an enthusiastic and empathetic career counselor. She uses both reflection and action to help clients identify their authentic interests and career path, and particularly enjoys working with clients who are choosing a major or exploring career options.

Fun fact: I’m always excited to look at a bird, plant, or insect.

I wish more students knew that it’s okay to not have all the answers about your future! My job is to help you find them.

Kelly helps students figure out what they want to do, how to get there, and how to enjoy the journey. With over 20 years of experience in career counseling and professional development, she’s guided thousands of students and alumni through resume writing, interview best practices, networking, and job searches—sprinkling in plenty of practical “life hacks” to make the process feel less overwhelming and a lot more rewarding. Kelly is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, build connections, and take confident steps toward careers they’re excited about.

I wish more students knew that I am the advisor for the USD Rock Climbing Club.

Sue is committed to guiding students through the exciting process of career exploration and connecting them with meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities. She enjoys building rapport through empathy and asking thoughtful, in-depth questions that help clients understand how their talents, interests, values, and skills align with potential career paths. Sue’s greatest joy is watching a student's confidence grow as they discover their path and develop valuable skills.

Fun fact: After graduating from USD, Sue spent a year performing internationally with the musical group, Up With People. The experience deepened her passion for connecting with people across cultures and inspired her lifelong mission to return to USD as a career counselor.

I wish more students knew that they will find a welcoming space at CDEV where they are supported every step of the way—no career plan is needed to make an appointment.

Coach Vance believes that every individual possesses unique strengths, experiences, and potential that can be developed into meaningful personal and professional success.

When students step into his office, they are entering the "No-Judgment Zone!" This is a space where they can be themselves, ask questions, express uncertainties, share their experiences, and explore possibilities without fear of criticism or judgment. Coach Vance believes meaningful growth begins when individuals feel comfortable being authentic, vulnerable, and open to learning.

As an empathetic listener, his role is not simply to provide answers, but to help individuals develop the self-awareness, confidence, critical thinking, and practical skills necessary to make informed decisions and take ownership of their professional journey.

Abbey leads the Career Development Center’s counseling team and creates strategic vision for department programs that support students in exploring career paths, building experience, and achieving their goals, like the Career Readiness Program and Summer Internship Award. With over 10 years of experience in higher education, she’s passionate about helping students find meaningful careers by fostering authentic relationships, embracing diverse perspectives, and reimagining career development in ways that center the whole student.

Fun fact: My favorite type of workout is boxing!

I wish more students knew that you don’t have to have your life planned out to make an appointment with the Career Center. We are here to help you learn, explore, and connect!

Abbey is not available for individual appointments, but she does hold CRP Orientation and CRP Senior Drop-Ins almost every Tuesday.