Julia Makela, PhD is the Senior Director of LAS Career Services, where she leads initiatives to advance students’ career development competencies throughout their college experience. She has a deep passion for inspiring and empowering students in their education and career pursuits. Mentoring, individual coaching, and teaching career courses are often the highlights of her day. Julia is a Certified Career Counselor, National Career Development Association (NCDA) Fellow, and member of the NCDA Board of Directors (2020 – present). Beyond the office, Julia is enthusiastic about hiking and adventure racing, and also enjoys quiet times tea gardening, crocheting, and hanging out with family.