Career Center Team

Eileen Buecher assumed the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Career Success at UNT after 30 years of successive leadership roles at California Polytechnic State University, Emory, UNC Asheville, Carnegie Mellon, and the University of Pittsburgh.  She also has experience building career readiness and employer engagement programs at Berry College, Robert Morris University, and Chatham University.  She started as a student worker in a career services office, has experience in social work and nonprofits, and has demonstrated impact in the areas of external relations, employer development, career counseling and teaching, strategic planning and assessment, team building, business operations, consulting, and fundraising.  Eileen is committed to preparing all students to be career ready and achieve their goals in developmental, collaborative, and measurable ways.

Philip Aguinaga is the Assistant Director for Events and Employer Services. Philip earned an M.Ed. in Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of North Texas. Previously at UNT, he worked as an academic counselor and has spent years helping students develop their careers. Now at the Career Center, he enjoys helping UNT students find meaningful connections to potential employers by coordinating various events and fairs on campus. When he is not at UNT, Philip is spending time with family, watching sports, and listening to podcasts. He has been described as knowledgeable, understanding, and dedicated.

If you want to learn more about UNT’s career events, please email Philip at Philip.Aguinaga@unt.edu.

Lola Aje is a career coach and supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Lola earned a bachelors in Accounting and obtained the accounting professional certification (equivalent of a CPA) in Nigeria. Lola is pursuing a masters in Mental Health counseling and wrapping up a masters in Higher Education at the University of North Texas. She is an ICF certified coach and loves to work with young people in figuring out their purpose, passion, and path. 

Lola likes helping UNT students because every student is unique and should be supported in discovering what works best for them and how to achieve it. When she is not in UNT, Lola loves to spend time with family & close friends and connect with friends in church where she sings in the worship team. The best advice she received was “focus on your strengths but know your limits”. She has been described as passionate, organized and caring.

Want to find out more about how Lola can help you? Her office is located in the College of Business, BLB 037 and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate. 

Dolores August is a Career Coach supporting the College of Music. She earned a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Historical Performance from Boston University, is a proud alum of UNT earning a Master of Arts (MA) in Flute Performance, and earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Music Education and a Bachelor of Music (BM) in Performance from Florida International University. She has a background in solo, chamber, and orchestral performance, arts administration, as both a private and public school teacher, adjunct professor, church music director, music entrepreneur, and has performed musicological research related to performance practice. She enjoys meeting with UNT music students because they are hard workers academically and are dedicated to their music. She enjoys seeing the wide variety of paths students are taking, enjoys exploring additional career options with them, and is passionate about helping students realize their full potential. The best piece of advice she has been given is “Never compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own personal growth and success.” She has been described as caring, organized and motivated. When she is not at UNT, she likes to spend time going to movies, seeking out water, or performing with her organist husband and spending time with her two children.

Ready to see how Dolores can help you? Her office is located at Music 260C and may be reached by phone at 940-369-7583. Ready for a coaching session? Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

David Bekker is a Career Coach and supports students at the College of Engineering (CENG) at UNT Discovery Park. 

David earned an M.Ed. in Counseling from The University of North Texas (UNT) and a B.A in Radio Television, and Film from UNT. He has an extensive history of helping UNT students reach their academic and career goals. He has been an Academic Counselor for The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Senior Academic Counselor for UNT Athletics Student Services, and an Academic Counselor for The College of Engineering. David is dedicated in helping UNT students identify their academic and career goals and providing extensive options and pathways to meet these goals. David has been described as a creative, motivational, and caring.

Students can schedule an appointment with David through Navigate.

Marcy Bishop-Lilley is a Career Coach and supports First Years, Sophomores and Graduate students in the College of Visual Arts and Design. Marcy earned an M.F.A. in Painting and Drawing from the University of North Texas and a B.A. in Art Education from University of North Carolina at Pembroke. She likes helping UNT students by facilitating an environment n which students can find and acknowledge their strengths to pursue their dreams. When she is not at UNT, she is brunching, traveling, snuggling her puppies, and gardening with her husband. The best piece of advice she received was, “Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing gonna be all right.” She has been described as creative, calm, and thoughtful.  

Want to find out more about how Marcy can help you? Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Patricia Chastain is the Associate Director of Student Employment. Patricia earned an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She likes helping UNT students grow from their student employment jobs into careers. When she is not at UNT, she enjoys photography and travel. The best piece of advice she received was, “When given the opportunity to jump off a cliff, do it, something will catch you.” She has been described as passionate, strong, and adventurous.

Want to find out more about Student Employment opportunities, events, and policies? Email Patricia at patricia.chastain@unt.edu.

Corey Davidson is the Assistant Director, Technology & Experiential Programs for the UNT Career Center. He supports students in the following Colleges: Liberal Arts and Social Sciences – Mass Communications Majors (Communication Studies, Media Arts, Converged Broadcast Media, Professional Technical Communications, and Dance & Theatre); Mayborn School of Journalism; Music; Visual Arts and Design. Corey earned a B.A. in English from the University of North Texas. He likes helping UNT students because so many students come into the office stressed and overwhelmed by the thought of trying to plan their careers. He loves being able to help them break down the process and remove some of that stress. When he is not at UNT, he enjoys spending time with family, reading books, drinking coffee, playing and listening to music, and drinking more coffee. The best piece of advice he received was, “Pursue what you are passionate about.” He has been described as a context seeker who works from intellection and a place of humor whenever possible. Want to find out more about our internship programs related to majors within the Colleges of Music, Visual Arts and Design, Journalism, and Liberal Arts and Social Sciences-Mass Communications?  Students can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Want to find out more about what technology we are using to ensure the success of our students? Email Corey at corey.davidson@unt.edu.

LeAndra DiNicola is the Student Employment Coordinator. LeAndra earned a B.B.A. from Northwood University. She likes helping UNT students because they are the reason faculty and staff are here and she believes in providing excellent customer service to the entire UNT community.  In fact, having a student come in discouraged by the job search process and being able to help them locate, apply and land an on-campus position makes her day! When she is not at UNT, she is often gardening, reading, spending time with family, and her many rescue pets. The best piece of advice she received was, “Do the job you have now to the best of your ability. Always have pride in a job well done no matter how big or small.” She has been described as short, sassy, and customer-service oriented.

Want to find out more about our student employment opportunities, events, and newsletter? Email LeAndra at Leandra.Dinicola@unt.edu.

T. A. was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She is a first-generation college student, and has served as one of the leaders of a community-based organization in Chicago for a number of years. She has worked as a professor and a member of dissertation committees at several universities and has several years of experience in management in the higher education field. She is passionate about empowering students to achieve their higher education goals, dreams, and career goals and wants to assist them with the process.

T. A. is truly thankful for the professors and higher education leaders who supported, encouraged and believed in her. For this reason, she wants to share the same experience with UNT students by supporting, encouraging and believing in them to ensure they reach their higher education goals and career goals.

Students can schedule an appointment with T. A. through Navigate.

Amy Ferman is the Associate Director for Employer Services. Amy earned an M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas (Go Mean Green!) and a B.A. in Communications from Stephen F. Austin State University. She has worked for UNT for 20 years and previously worked in the Registrar’s Office and the College of Business Academic Advising Office. She likes using the network she has formed over the years to help guide decisions and create meaningful relationships for students. She loves working with employers who are loyal to UNT because of our students’ work ethic. When she is not at UNT, she is exploring Denton’s Downtown Square and enjoying its shops and restaurants. She has been described as caring, determined, and helpful. Check out Amy’s blog A Case for Getting Involved Outside of Your Career Center.

Want to find out more about how you can recruit UNT students? Email Amy at amy.ferman@unt.edu or call 940.565.2622.

Laura Garza is a Career Coach and supports students at the College of Engineering (CENG) at UNT Discovery Park.

Laura earned an M.S. in Counseling from Troy University and a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Maryland.  She also earned a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity-Threat Detection through Webster University in 2017. Laura enjoys helping UNT students explore their majors and potential career paths which line up with their natural preferences. When she is not at UNT, she loves traveling. The best piece of advice she received was “Luck favors the prepared.” She has been described as a listener, creative, resourceful.

Want to find out more about how Laura can help you? Her office is located in Discovery Park, 2^nd floor, E wing, Las Vegas Lane, Room E225K. Undergraduate and graduate students can schedule an appointment with Laura through Navigate.

Jill is a Career Coach supporting Juniors, Seniors and Graduate students in the College of Visual Arts and Design. She is originally from the Chicago area, received her BS in Art Education from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and her MFA in Metals from Arizona State University. Jill is also a metalsmith and educator and has been a maker for as long as she can remember. She has taught jewelry and metalsmithing for over 18 years and prior to her role as a Career Coach was an Associate Professor of Art – Jewelry/Metals full time for 11 years at Rowan University in New Jersey. Jill is an active exhibiting artist and her work is in permanent collections of various museums such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery. Find out more about Jill here:  www.jillbakergower.com

When not at UNT you might find Jill in her studio, spending time with her family and pets, or riding her bike all over North Texas. She has been described as patient, caring, detail oriented, and creative. 

Jill is excited to help UNT art and design students pursue their passions and define their career goals. Her office is in Art Building 220D. Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment with her through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

I am a passionate Career Coach that supports Journalism, Media Arts, and Converged Broadcast Media.  When I was in college, I had a professor by the name of Dr. Chiplan. He introduced this poem that has been my guiding light ever since. I committed it to memory the same day and strive to live it out through every interaction!

I pledge myself to trace my past
To learn from it, so I can last.
I pledge to learn, I pledge to teach
So others I may reach.
I pledge myself to always lift,
To give my life it’s greatest gift
I pledge my body and my soul
To never stop short of my goals
Eric Green I shall forever be
I will strive to set others free.

From a UNT Sophomore Journalism student: “In my brief time knowing Mr. Eric Green, I have been able to gain tremendous confidence regarding my career path and who I am as a person. I initially met him via zoom expecting to get extremely basic career advice and maybe a few helpful links that would’ve guided me in the right direction. However, Mr. Green was quick to give me actual opportunities to better myself and all I had to do was utilize them. I guarantee that having Mr. Green in your corner of supporters will propel you sizably in your career journey.”

My office is located in Sage Hall, Suite 202. Current undergraduate and graduate students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Amy Hicks is a Career Coach, and she supports Experienced UNT Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago. Amy earned an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and a Bachelor of General Studies in Criminal Justice and Health Studies from Texas Woman’s University. Amy likes helping students and alumni by exploring opportunities and identifying strengths and skills to create action steps for professional growth. She works with clients to create connection strategies and effective documents, and to fully utilize tools and resources. Amy also teaches Professional Development Strategies in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. When she is not at UNT, she enjoys being a mom to three fantastic children, exploring nature and the outdoors, and listening to all types of music. The best piece of advice she received was, “just be yourself” and ”spend the time on it if you love it – learn how to change, eliminate, or become more efficient with other things so that you can.” She has been described as inquisitive, encouraging, and energetic.

Schedule an Appointment

Would you like to meet with Amy? Appointment options include in-person, phone, Zoom, and email.

• Experienced Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago (except Business alumni) can register for an Alumni Small Group Coaching and Resume Refresh Session.
• Experienced Alumni who graduated more than 1 year ago (except Business alumni) can schedule individual appointments through Handshake.
• For assistance with appointment scheduling (including Handshake and Zoom), go to Schedule an Appointment.

Brian Hirsch is the Senior Associate Director and supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Brian earned an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi, a M.Ed. in College Counseling and Student Personnel Administration from Southern Mississippi University, and a B.S. in Zoology from LA Tech. He likes helping UNT students because they are very coachable, they are very hard workers, and they care about what they do when they go out into the “world.” When he is not at UNT, he enjoys reading and hanging out with his family. The best piece of advice he received was “You need to learn to laugh at yourself.” He has been described as dedicated, focused, and a learner.

Want to find out more about how Brian can help you? His office is located in the Business Leadership Building – BLB 037. Current undergraduate and graduate students can schedule an appointment through Navigate, and alumni can schedule an appointment through Handshake.

Kevin is a Career Coach supporting the College of Health and Public Service (HPS). He earned his Master of Arts (MA) in College Student Personnel (CSP) from Bowling Green State University, and his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics with a minor in Asian American Studies at Ohio State University. Throughout his career, he has focused on promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice in higher education with a specialization in working with Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) students. As a first-generation college student, he understands the struggle of figuring out all the possible resources that a university can have, so he hopes to help make that experience more accessible and digestible for UNT students! In addition to being in career services, he has accrued experience with residence life, live-in learning communities, multicultural services, and teaching.

The best piece of advice he has been given is: “Be confident in yourself because you are more than capable to do the work”.

Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, traveling, working out, K-pop, watching K-dramas or anime, and playing video games. He is also an avid tech lover who custom built his PC and keyboard!

Students can schedule an appointment with Kevin through Navigate.

My name is Stan Hughes, and I am a Career Coach in the College of Science. I am an Army veteran who served in Desert Storm in 1990 where I was injured during battle. While my military career was cut short due to injuries, I still had a passion to help our veterans through volunteering and creating various programs. During my journey of serving our veterans, I assisted with homelessness, HIV counseling, money management resources, and helped to create outreach programs to better serve their daily needs. I felt I could better serve our veteran population through education. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2012. I continued my education at Benedictine University where I received my master’s degree in Organizational Behavior in 2015 and an MBA in 2017. I look forward to helping/assisting our next generation of amazing UNT students.

An interesting fact about me is I love to grill. I am always trying new recipes and perfecting my grilling craft.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Stacey Jones is a Career Coach and supports New College and all students at UNT at Frisco. Stacey earned a BAAS and a BS in Sociology from UNT.  She likes helping UNT students achieve their personal and career goals by developing their leadership skills. When she is not at UNT Stacey enjoys spending time with her family and taking long walks with her miniature Dachshund Ruby. She has been described as extremely organized, a good communicator, and very thoughtful.

Beth Kent is a Career Coach and supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Beth earned a BBA in Management from Michigan State University.  Beth likes helping UNT students because she believes all students can find their ‘success’ when we take time to coach and guide them on developing their skills and talents, teach them to follow their passions and challenge them to be leaders.  When she is not at UNT Beth enjoys working in her yard and gardens, doing anything outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.  She has two grown successful kids and loves to travel to Colorado to visit her daughter and go hiking when she can.  The best piece of advice she received was “Life is short, take time to smell the roses and live with purpose!”  She has been described as detail oriented, strong and a good listener.

Want to find out more about how Beth can help you? Her office is located in the College of Business, BLB 037 and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Janice Lader is a Career Coach and supports the College of Health and Public Service. She earned an M.Ed. in Student Affairs from Regent University and a B.A. in English from Regent University. She likes helping UNT students because she enjoys getting to know students and helping them to identify career paths based on their interests and goals, and then establishing the route necessary to successfully reach their destinations. When she is not at UNT, she is spending time with her daughter and two dogs, going to concerts and live theatre performances, working on her creative writing, and taking on DIY projects at home. The best piece of advice she received was, “If you bang on enough doors, one is bound to open.” She has been described as compassionate, motivated, and creative.

Want to find out more about how Janice can help you? Her office is located in Sage Hall, Suite 202. Current students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Kim is thrilled to serve as a Career Coach at UNT because it is an opportunity to give students the gift of employment. As a first-generation college student, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Science from New Mexico State University and master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from The University of Texas at El Paso. She has worked in multiple agencies that support employment and spent many years in mental health roles where she was able to incorporate job readiness skills. She has a passion for working with people with disabilities which is supported by her master’s degree. Kim’s dream was to one day work in a university setting where she could assist college students with their career journey.

Nyjah is a proud Eastern Illinois University alum where she earned a master’s degree in College Student Affairs and a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Pre-Physical Therapy. She ran for the Track and Field team for four years at Eastern Illinois University and was very involved on campus. Nyjah has a background in teaching, programming, and advising underrepresented student populations such as first-generation college students. She has a passion for diversity and inclusion initiatives on campus. She also has experience in entrepreneurship and started a business that was inspired by her puppy.

When she is not working, Nyjah likes spending time with her family, playing with her puppy, reading, and watching Marvel movies and TV shows. Her favorite quote is “It’s realizing that a great dream is not as good as a great memory. The dream can be had by anyone. The memory – must be made.” ~ Eric Thomas

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Deidre Leslie is the Senior Associate Director for Career Coaches and Career Education. She serves as the Career Coach for New College students taking classes on the Denton campus. Deidre earned an M.B.A. Strategic Leadership from Amber University and a B.S. in Business and Public Administration from the University of Texas at Dallas. She likes helping UNT students on their journey to graduation and ultimately assisting students with their successful transition to the workplace. It is very rewarding for Deidre to support students while they develop marketable skills critical to their professional success. It’s a pleasure to witness students have their “Aha Moment” when they can identify and articulate their skills and accomplishments and then be offered that special employment opportunity. When she is not at UNT, she is maintaining her status with her nieces and nephews as the “Coolest and Best Auntie.” She enjoys attending their dance and music recitals, theatrical productions, sporting events, and sleep-overs, going on family vacations, enjoying family lunches/dinners, shopping with her nephews and nieces, and having long conversations with them about anything and everything. The best piece of advice she received was, “You become what you believe. Having positive thoughts will give positive results.”  She has been described as professional, confident, reliable, realistic, and fair.

Want to find out more about how Deidre can help you? Her office is located in Sage Hall, Suite 202, and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Hello Y’all! I’m Yanlin, and I am currently a Career Coach for the College of Education. I graduated from University of North Texas with a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Science. I also earned a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington and am a Licensed Master Social Worker. I love working with students from different backgrounds and helping them find the career path they truly love and enjoy.

When I am not at UNT, I enjoy spending time with my three dogs (Taco, Chimichanga, and Churro). I also like watching different shows and listening to crime podcasts.

“Just because my path is different doesn’t mean I’m lost.” – Gerard Abrams

I am located in Matthews Hall, 107A. Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available for career advisement on the Alumni page.

Maya is a Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences where she serves media arts majors across classifications.

Maya received her B.A. in Communications with a digital media focus from The University of Texas at San Antonio (Birds Up!) and her M.Ed. in Higher Education from UNT (Go Mean Green!). While serving for a year as a graduate assistant in the Career Resource Center for the Ryan College of Business, Maya developed a passion for career services and pursued a career coach position upon graduation. With experience in a variety of career industries, Maya looks forward to serving UNT students throughout their professional journeys. Her favorite part of career coaching is teaching students how to strengthen their writing for their application materials, so they feel comfortable enough to carry out the task on their own. When Maya is not at UNT, she enjoys watching sci-fi/horror films, attending concerts, and exploring new cities/states. Maya can be described as thoughtful, witty and adaptable.

If you’re looking to discuss the next steps in advancing your professional career, schedule an appointment with Maya via Navigate. Her office is in the GAB, suite 220.

Sean McNamara is an Assistant Director and supports the College of Liberal Arts and Social Science majors. He earned M.Ed. in Counseling from UNT and a B.A. in History from Seton Hall University. He likes helping UNT students because UNT students are such hard workers, with a wide range of experiences both inside and outside of the classroom. He enjoys listening to their stories and helping them translate that into a career they will love. When he is not at UNT, he likes to read, spend time outdoors, watch movies, and travel whenever he can. The best piece of advice he received was, “No great success was ever achieved without failure. The idea that one failure isn’t the end but a lesson has helped me to be brave enough to try new things even though I’m not certain to succeed.” He has been described as kind, determined, and curious.

Want to find out more about how Sean can help you? His office is located in GAB, Room 220. Current students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Anna Motes is a Career Coach and supports the students at the College of Information (COI) at UNT Discovery Park.

Anna has an M.S. and a B.S., both in Mathematics, from Texas A&M University in College Station. She comes to UNT with 8 years of experience in the K-12 Education sector, managing an after-school math program. Anna likes helping UNT students because she loves to build relationships with her students, and she is continuously impressed by their hard-work and passion for their education and their futures. When not at UNT, Anna can be found reading mystery novels, watching baseball or football, doing puzzles, playing board games, and crafting (origami & cross stitch are her favorites). The best piece of advice Anna has received is “Who dares to teach must never cease to learn.” Some words that describe Anna are compassionate, problem-solver, dedicated, detail-oriented, and lifelong learner.

Ready to see how Anna can help you? Her office is in the Learning Technologies department of Discovery Park, room G-153. Students can schedule an appointment through Navigate or email Anna at anna.motes@unt.edu.

Lauren is a Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) where she serves psychology, anthropology, and sociology majors.

She received her B.S. in Animal Science from Texas Tech University and her M.Ed. in Higher Education with a focus in Student Affairs from the University of North Texas! While at Texas Tech, she worked for a number of on-campus departments including orientation, undergraduate admissions, and recruitment for her academic college. Through these experiences, she found a true passion for working with and serving college students. During her time at UNT, she served as the Graduate Assistant for Orientation and New Student Programs her first year, and went on to serve as the Graduate Assistant for Student Organizations and Officer Support her second year. In addition to her graduate assistantships, Lauren was able to gain experience with other areas in student affairs from other institutions in the DFW area including orientation programs at The University of Texas at Arlington and fraternity and sorority life at Southern Methodist University. Lauren truly enjoys exploring all functional areas of student affairs and is excited to join the Career Center. She loves being a part of such an amazing team with CLASS and can’t wait to see all the ground-breaking things that are happening with the Career Center. One of Lauren’s favorite parts of coaching, is when her students have that “light bulb” moment and they begin to see what their professional future can look like. When Lauren is not at UNT, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading the latest BookTok recommendations, attending spin class, and watching all the bad reality TV.

Want to learn more about how Lauren can help you advance in your professional journey? Current students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

Jeremy Ray is an Internship Specialist at the Career Center. He earned his undergraduate degree in Integrative Studies with a focus on Psychology, International Studies, and Business with a specialization in Human Resources. He is a military veteran who is earning his master’s degree in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources here at UNT. When he is not working, doing homework, or spending time with his family, he enjoys doing CrossFit and being around water. One of his biggest passions is teaching young children how to swim. He realizes not everyone learns the same way, and those new ways of learning allow people to evolve and gain new experiences. He wants to be a part of giving students a personalized experience here at the Career Center.

Liaison to the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism, College of Music, College of Visual Arts & Design, College of Education, and College of Health and Public Service. 

I enjoy building and maintaining relationships with employers and organizations. While I normally do not meet with students directly, the work I accomplish is ultimately for their benefit and contributes to their career success.  When I am not at UNT, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, exploring the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and hunting for treasures at local thrift shops.  

Samantha earned a M.S. in Leadership and Change from the Bill Munday School of Business, a B.A. in Communication, with a Specialization in Rhetorical and Cultural Studies, and a Minor in Spanish from St. Edward’s University. She joined the Career Center Employer Services Team in August of 2022. Her mentor describes her as “an approachable individual who enjoys engaging with people to explore their career aspirations.” 

Hello there! My name is Sarah Spath, and I am an Internship Specialist at the UNT Career Center. I support students interested in finding internships whose majors fall within the following Colleges: Engineering; Information; Merchandising, Hospitality, and Tourism; and Science. I received my Bachelor in Business Administration and Masters of Accounting from the University of Michigan in addition to my Masters of Higher Education from UNT. I like working with UNT students because of their openness, drive, and persistence. I learn from students as much as they learn from me. Every student has a unique background and perspective that has brought them to UNT, and I enjoy learning about their stories. When I am not at UNT, I enjoy going for walks, dancing, baking, indulging in reality shows, playing board games, traveling (when it is safe to do so), and spending time with the people that mean the most to me. The best piece of advice I have ever received is to focus on what makes me happy. It sounds so simple, and I’ve heard it time and time again, but it has taken a while for me to truly understand how important it is to design your own life to continually refill your energy and happiness to sustain through the inevitable stressors and pressures that life may bring. If I could describe myself in 3 words, they would be: empathetic, passionate, and analytical. I feel all the emotions very strongly and pick up on others’ energy. I am fiercely dedicated to the things I am passionate about and motivated by those passions to make a positive impact on the lives of other people. However, although I am fairly in tune with my emotions, I also have another side to me that is analytical. I have always been very detailed and organized and appreciate structure and plans.

Students can schedule an appointment through Navigate or email Sarah at sarah.spath@unt.edu.

Kate is currently serving the College of Science as a Career Coach. She is a First Generation, University of North Texas Alumni who completed her Bachelor of Arts in Biology with Honors in the Spring of 2022. Kate has a strong desire to guide students in their professional and personal development. She excels in encouraging and motivating students to accept and love who they are due to her strong belief that success comes from being confident. Kate’s mission is to be a resource to young professionals of UNT, due to her background of being a young professional herself. She aims to help them see that they are extraordinary just as they are by helping them eliminate comparison and overcome other mental barriers.

“Being a young professional is hard, especially if they are First Generation because you are essentially traveling into a deep dark unknown. I want to shed some light, and bring some guidance to those students and help them become their best selves.

Current students and recent graduates (graduated one year ago or more recently) can schedule an online or in-person appointment through Navigate. Experienced Alumni (graduated more than one year ago) can check out the options available to connect with a Career Coach on the Alumni page.

Clarence is a Career Coach for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) with a primary focus on Political Science, History, and International Studies. He has his B.S. in Business Management from Alabama State University and his MPA from Louisiana State University. Clarence has a passion for helping students as he strives to help them translate their skills and experiences into internships and job opportunities. Clarence has worked with various political and policy organizations including Louisiana’s Public Affairs Research Council, The Southern Education Foundation, The Congressional Black Caucus, and various projects throughout Alabama’s 7^th Congressional District. He has also worked in various communities within cities such as Montgomery, Al; Memphis, TN; Syracuse, NY; and Washington D.C. Working in these various communities and with these different organizations has allowed Clarence to work with very diverse populations, which has enhanced his love for equity, inclusion, and people in general.

When Clarence is not at UNT he enjoys watching Netflix and spending time outdoors and lives by the motto that “life is about people. If you learn how to treat people fairly and communicate with them effectively, you will be successful.”

Students can schedule an appointment with Clarence through Navigate.

Shunta Thomas is a Career Coach and supports students at the College of Engineering.

Shunta earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Illinois State University and a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Accounting from Tennessee State University. She also earned the following Texas Educator Certificates – Principal, Business, Marketing, ESL. Shunta has a lifelong passion and track record for helping youth exceed and reach their highest potential.

When she is not at UNT, she is volunteering in her community through the local high school, women’s clubs, and church. The best piece of advice she received is always strive for excellence, reflect on the learnings along your journey, and share your talents and gifts.

Want to find out more about how Shunta can help you? Her office is located in Discovery Park, 2^nd floor, E wing, Las Vegas Lane, Room E225P. Undergraduate and graduate students can schedule an appointment with Shunta through Navigate.

Tammy van der Leest is a Career Coach and supports the G. Brint Ryan College of Business. Tammy is pursuing a PhD in Higher Education Administration from Liberty University and has earned a M.A. in Organizational Management with a concentration in International Business from Ashford University and a B.S. in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Tammy enjoys helping UNT students turn all the hours of studying and hard work into a great job offer! When she is not at UNT, she is traveling, kayaking, and out having fun with her kiddo. The best piece of advice she received was, “Get your education!”

Want to find out more about how Tammy can help you? Her office is located in the Business Leadership Building – BLB 037, and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.

My name is Ashley Waggoner, I am the Coordinator for Events and Employer Services in the Career Center at the University of North Texas. I am a born and raised Texan from the beautiful city of Denton, Texas and a proud UNT alumni, with a degree in Integrative Studies, specializing in Psychology and Hospitality Management.  I am extremely grateful and excited to be working at my alma mater, University of North Texas, where I am able to connect with employers and students.  My favorite part about my job is watching success stories happening, with recruitment success with employers coming to campus and helping prepare our students for their future successes.  Helping people, coordinating events, and recruiting have been passions within my career journey, now I am able to do these every day.  When I am not at my Mean Green home I enjoy being with my family, gardening, anything outdoors, and enjoying the little things in life. I live by one quote through my professional and personal journey in life because it reminds me to believe in myself and what I create around me, “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced”-Van Gogh.

Dee Wilson is a Career Coach and supports the College of Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism (CMHT). Dee earned an M.Ed. in Higher Education from the University of North Texas and a B.B.A. in Business Administration & B.S. in Government from Texas Woman’s University. She worked 10 years in CMHT teaching the professional development course, processing internship approvals, conducting employer outreach to develop employment opportunities with industry recruiters, and coordinating career events. Dee likes helping UNT students because she enjoys seeing students succeed in developing themselves, discovering their passions and finding a career that is rewarding to them. When she is not at UNT, she spends time with her family, watches and attends sports events, watches movies, and goes to concerts/plays. The best piece of advice she received was “Be humble and listen more than you speak while showing interest in others.” She has been described as caring, detail-oriented, and dependable.

Want to find out more about how Dee can help you? Her office is located in Chilton Hall, room 333, and students can schedule an appointment through Navigate.