From environmental science, interior design, career counseling, to DEI manager | Kevin Kawakami

Career Explorer's Guide

In this episode, Kevin Kawakami, shares his journey from receiving his bachelors in environmental science, becoming a residential director at UCLA housing, dabbling in interior design, working as a senior assistant director at UCLA Career Center, and now a diversity, equity, and inclusion manager at NBC Universal. Kevin discusses factors to consider when making a career pivot, how to stand out as a candidate with no direct experience in a new field of work, how to best support yourself through a career transition, and the importance of embracing change.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• List of values from Brene Brown: https://brenebrown.com/resources/dare-to-lead-list-of-values/

Topics we discussed:

• How do you know when to change careers?
• How do you figure out your values?
• When should I utilize the career center at my school?
• How do you stand out as a job candidate if you have no direct experiences?
• What are some transferable skills that have helped him succeed in transitioning careers?
• How do you face the thought of “will I ever find the right career”?
• How do you work through imposter syndrome when entering a new career field?
• Who should you talk to when you are considering a pivot?
• Do you need to have a job lined up before quitting?
• How do you support your mental health while changing careers?

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