Samantha Yang

My career has been centered around supporting people, creating opportunities, and helping others recognize their strengths and find pathways toward their goals.

Before joining the University of Minnesota, I worked as an AANAPISI Academic Advisor at Century College, where I supported students through academic, personal, and career advising, with a focus on first-generation, low-income, AAPI, and historically underserved students. I’ve also worked with TRIO Upward Bound at the University of Minnesota, supporting inner city high school students as they explored college and career opportunities.

My professional experience extends beyond higher education. I’ve had the opportunity to work in political campaigns, nonprofit organizations, and corporate environments, in addition to my work in education. Each of these experiences gave me a different perspective on leadership, communication, teamwork, networking, workplace expectations, and what it takes to build a career. Working in different environments has helped me understand that career readiness is about much more than having a degree or choosing a major. It’s also about developing confidence, learning how to communicate your value, building relationships, understanding workplace culture, and being able to adapt to different professional environments.

Those experiences are a big part of why I became a Career Coach. I want to help students bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace and feel prepared to navigate their careers, not just get their first job. I believe students should have the opportunity to explore their interests, understand their strengths, develop professional skills, and learn how to advocate for themselves. I also want students to see that their experiences, including jobs, community involvement, leadership, and even challenges they’ve overcome, are all valuable toward their future careers.

Outside of work, I’m a mom, which keeps me very busy but is also one of the most rewarding parts of my life! I play soccer in a women’s league, so you can usually find me on the field when I’m not working or studying. I love being outdoors, fall is my absolute favorite season, and I’m LOVE spicy, spicy food. And, perhaps most importantly, I need a good cup of coffee to start my mornings!