Meet the CSE Career Services team
Adam Lightbody
Senior, Civil Engineering major
“I am a senior studying civil engineering with a concentration in transportation and a minor in urban studies. I am also currently doing research on novel aircraft and their integration into aviation systems. Outside of academics, I enjoy cooking, baking, paddleboarding, swimming, biking and traveling!”
Mohamed Omar
Senior, Computer Engineering major
“I am currently a senior studying computer engineering with a focus on embedded systems. Additionally, I am part of the Solar Vehicle Project’s electrical team. Outside of school, I enjoy playing basketball, snowboarding and trying new food spots.”
Sera Bales
Senior, Industrial and Systems Engineering major
“I am currently a senior studying industrial and systems engineering. Outside of academics, I love to practice yoga and read. I also love to travel and try new foods!”
Sam Betts
Sophomore, Mechanical Engineering major
“I am currently a sophomore studying mechanical engineering with a minor in leadership. I am a member of the Society of Women Engineers and Karate Club on campus. Outside of school, I enjoy swimming, hiking and hockey!”
Angie Froistad
Director of Career Services
How did you gain experience when you were a student?
"During the school year, I worked at my university’s bookstore and also served as an orientation leader and resident adviser. During the summers, I worked in a variety of jobs, including as a counselor/softball coach at a summer camp in Pennsylvania, a front desk assistant at Winnebago Industries (located in my small Iowa hometown), and even spent a summer mowing lawns."
How did you become a career development professional?
"I had planned on being an elementary education teacher, but during my sophomore year, I realized that it wasn’t the right choice for me. I switched to psychology, not really understanding the career options, but I knew that I loved the college setting. It wasn’t until my first career counseling course in graduate school that I realized my passion for career development. I’ve worked in higher education my whole career — 10 years in CSE — and I love working here!"
Best words of advice for students
"It’s totally OK to not know what you want to do with your life, and in fact, it’s more common than you might think. Career paths are rarely linear, and many students discover their true passions through exploration and trial and error. Remember that your career is a journey, not a destination, and it’s OK to take time to figure out what fulfills you. Embrace the process and trust that clarity will come as you gain more experience."
Out-of-work obsessions
"I’m a mom of two busy kids, so you can generally find me cheering them on at a hockey, baseball, soccer or football game. One of my kids is also a Scout, which means I’m learning a lot about outdoor skills and camping. In my free time, I like spending time with my husband and kids, hanging out with friends, attending dance classes and organizing as many areas of my home as possible (that one really is an obsession)."
Carolyn Catir
Senior Career Counselor
How did you gain experience when you were a student?
"As a student, I gained valuable experience by serving as a resident assistant (RA), which taught me important skills in leadership, conflict resolution and community building. I also took on leadership roles in the student senate, where I was able to influence campus policies and represent my peers. Additionally, I worked a variety of summer jobs (including selling corn from a roadside stand!), each of which provided me with different perspectives and practical skills that have been instrumental in my career development."
Out-of-work obsessions
"I love exploring the Twin Cities area through a mix of outdoor activities, discovering new music and indulging in the local food scene. Whether it’s hiking in the parks, attending live music events or trying out the latest restaurant, I’m always eager to experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty that the Twin Cities have to offer."
My top five strengths
"Individualization, strategic, arranger, activator and positivity"
My best advice for students
"Be proactive in seeking out opportunities, building your network and developing your skills. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Create them. Embrace the learning process and stay open to new experiences and possibilities."
Chrissy Jensen
Assistant Director of Career Counseling
Best words of advice for students
"It’s OK to not have everything figured out! Life is a journey, so just keep taking one step forward. Be open to new possibilities and pivot when needed. Focus on the things you have control over and try to let go of everything else."
Out-of-work obsessions
"I love being outdoors, especially during the summer months, hiking, kayaking, foraging for mushrooms and exploring new parks. I also like to cook and try new recipes. I make kombucha and am proud to say I’ve gotten quite a few friends started on making it themselves, too!"
Funny story
"I startle very easily. My previous coworkers scared me pretty badly on Halloween one year and recorded it. I looked pretty funny. I submitted the video to America’s Funniest Home Videos (and forgot I did so). I was watching TV one day and randomly saw myself on AFV!"
How should students prepare for a meeting with you?
"Come as you are! Don’t feel like you need to be super prepared to just get started. I love hearing about students’ journeys and areas they may need some additional support in. Career counseling is a collaborative relationship; you know yourself best! I want to come alongside you and offer support where needed."
Kristen Murphy
Senior Career Counselor and Co-op Program Manager
How did you become a career development professional?
"My path has not been linear. After graduating with my bachelor’s degree, I worked among the pine trees at the Itasca Biological Station in northern Minnesota, then transitioned to the School of Public Health, where I helped people quit smoking in several research studies. Helping others overcome addiction inspired me to pursue my master’s in counseling to become a therapist, but during my graduate education, I shifted course into career counseling, which is a great fit."
Best words of advice for students
"Resumes won’t hire you, people will. Build and maintain your network. Professionals in the workforce were once students themselves and can offer great advice. Don’t be afraid to reach out."
Strengths (top five)
"Empathy, Focus, Restorative, Responsibility, Harmony"
What’s the one thing you would do if you were able to do it?
"Have a dog or cat. Everyone in my family is allergic, except me."
Erica Ratner
Manager of Graduate Student Career Development
How did you gain experience when you were a student?
"As an undergraduate student, I held various leadership roles on campus, including as a resident assistant (RA), tutor and front desk library assistant. I also served on the executive board of a community service organization and volunteered regularly in the area. As a graduate student, I had an internship connecting students to experiential learning opportunities."
Best words of advice for students
"You will meet a lot of people throughout your academic journey. Take the time to connect, explore and follow up! Don’t wait until you are close to graduation to start planning for what’s next."
Out-of-work obsessions
“Being new to the Twin Cities, I love getting to know the area by going to restaurants, art fairs, parks and breweries.”