Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m Kristina Vack, a Career Advisor in CALS Career Services. And this is a picture of me recently (pre-social-distancing) trying hot pot for the first time. I really miss going to restaurants and trying new foods.

 Q: What is your job in CALS?

I support students navigating a myriad of career related topics including: job/internship search plans, resume/cover letter writing, interview prep, career exploration, salary/benefit negotiation, personal statements for grad school, and much more. With over 10 years of experience as a career advisor, I’ve helped students through a wide diversity of career-related issues. I look forward to connecting with students to help them plan during this uncertain time.

Q: How can students connect with you remotely?

Students can make an appointment with me via Starfish for either a phone or on-line appointment. If students are looking for a basic resume review they are welcome to email career@cals.wisc.edu with their resume as an attachment; expect about a week turnaround.

Q: What are quick tips you have for students exploring internship or full-time employment in a time of social distancing?

Employers are still posting positions on Handshake so please keep applying if you are searching for employment: internship or full-time positions! Make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date because employers will definitely be looking; include a profile picture and updated information from your resume.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about CALS?

Honestly the students. In my experience students are in CALS majors because they want to make the world a better place and solve problems. When the barrage of negativity in the news gets to be too much, I think about all the wonderful students I’ve met as a career advisor and how they are a part of solving problems today. The level of ingenuity and passion I’ve seen gives me hope for a much brighter tomorrow.

Q: What have become some of your favorite social distancing hobbies? 

I’ve been taking daily walks with my family to Lake Monona and have enjoyed seeing how the lake changes on a daily basis. Highlights include seeing muskrats popping in and out of the ice, hearing the sound pebbles make when landing on thin ice and recently spotting loons. I’ve also enjoyed ‘riding’ Disney World rides via YouTube clips with my 7 and 9 year old. It helps to look forward to future travel adventures when it will be safe to be in crowds again.

This article was posted in A Message from the Dean.