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?
Have a career question you would like answered? Fill out this survey!
Career question form: https://forms.gle/WRue3xxNyuY3oigZ6
Make sure to check out our social platforms!
Instagram: @career.explorers.guide
YouTube: @Career Explorer's Guide
TikTok: @career.explorers.guide
Email: [email protected]
Music: @CAS