Julie Novotny

As a Career Advisor, I meet with current and prospective students, alumni, and community members to help them define their personal stories and shape them into future careers.

Education

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, K-6 from Thiel College and a Master of Arts in Student Affairs in Higher Education with College Counseling from Slippery Rock University. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor.

How I Got Here

As an undergraduate, I spent a lot of time in the Career Center so when I was offered a Graduate Assistantship at SRU’s Office of Career Education and Development, it was a natural fit. After 2 years working with SRU students on resumes, interviewing, and career decisions, I moved to Hiram College where I was a Hall Director for a year in the Office of Residential Education. Through this experience, I learned a lot about collaboration and how all offices work together on a college campus but ultimately realized that Career Advising was where I fit best.

Most Unusual Position Held

After I earned my Bachelor’s I knew I wanted to teach but did not want my own classroom so I got a position as a costumed interpreter at a living history museum. I dressed as an 18th century German peasant every day and cooked, cleaned, and ran a farmhouse without modern conveniences like electricity, heat, or indoor plumbing.

About Me

I am fascinated by personality assessments, as an INFJ with a Holland Code of SAR. I also listen to a lot of NPR and enjoy reading, crafting, yoga, baking and getting tattoos. I have a dog who keeps me active and together we spend a lot of time outdoors, exploring parks and nature. With the help of family, I recently renovated my entire house.

Best Advice for Students

One of my favorite quotes, from the 11th Doctor, says “We’re all stories in the end. Just make it a good one, eh.” It’s okay to not know how your story is going to go. It’s okay to be confused and to try different things. Explore, change directions, and explore some more. It’s all part of writing your story. And remember it’s your story, so you get to decide what a good one is. Utilize the resources available to you such as Career Exploration and Development to assist you with your exploring.