Alumni

LMU alumni who came to VOCARE Retreat

Career and Professional Development at LMU seeks to provide alumni with the support and resources to best leverage their academic experiences and maximize their professional potential. CPD also bridges alumni with current students seeking career guidance and exposure, and connects alumni with one another in support of a global network of Lions in the workforce.

  • Attend a CPD event to connect with students and to share your career and vocational journey. Students report that networking with and learning from alumni is a deeply valuable and meaningful experience. Additional option to serve as a “pop-up” speaker by giving a 2-minute talk about your life in business.

    Career Treks

    The goal of LMU Career Treks is to bring students into the workplaces of alumni in order to expose them to potential careers and broaden their understanding of various industries and occupations, depending on their interest and major. This event leverages Loyola Marymount University’s well positioned and successful alumni and friends in various locations who are excited to share their insight and personal career paths with students.

    VOCARÉ Retreat 

    VOCARÉ is a unique opportunity for LMU students to step away from campus to reflect on where they have been, who they are, and where they are going within a supportive community of fellow students, staff, faculty, and alumni. It is fun, completely free, and includes the following components:

    • Short talks from student leaders, staff, and faculty
    • Small group conversation facilitated by student leaders
    • Young alumni panel and lunch conversation
    • Time to strengthen connections with other students and reflect upon their life

    BCLA Career Chats

    LMU Bellarmine College of Liberal Art’s annual Career Chats includes quick networking sessions between dozens of LMU alumni and over 100 undergraduates that help students explore a variety of industry areas and opportunities to break into professional fields.

    Alumni from such industries as Social Services, Non-profits, Politics and Government, Professional Writing, Hospitality, Global and International Affairs, Sales, and Arts, Culture and Entertainment will share their stories with undergraduate students. LMU’s students are eager to start their own professional development and look forward to support from their alumni network.

    CBA Career Discovery

    CBA Career Discovery is an opportunity for students to meet with LMU alumni to learn about the variety of exciting opportunities available with a business degree, while expanding their network.

    CFA Career Connections

    CFA Career Connections is an opportunity for students to network with esteemed alumni from LMU College of Communication and Fine Arts to learn about the many ways you can forge a career with your CFA degree. Alumni working in theatre, dance, music, arts administration, graphic design and communication will share their stories of perseverance, resilience, and authenticity.

    Pathways in Entertainment

    SFTV Pathways is an opportunity for students to meet with esteemed alumni from LMU School of Film and Television in a conversation about bridging the professional gap between graduation and meaningful employment in the entertainment industry.

    Seaver Connect

    Seaver Connect is an opportunity for current students to hear from and connect with alumni in their fields of interest, exploring potential career pathways, while expanding their network.

    SOE EdConnect

    SOE EdConnect is an opportunity for students to engage with esteemed alumni from LMU School of Education to connect and have candid and intimate conversations with about careers in education.

     

    Interested in supporting our Lions? Send an email to careers@lmu.edu to express your interest in participating in one of our signature programs 

  • On-Campus Recruiting

    Visit campus in the fall or spring to host a brand-awareness session about your company or hold in-person interviews for an internship or job within your organization. 

    Post a Job, Internship or Micro-Internship

    Advertise an internship or job at no-charge on Handshake, LMU’s career database where current students and young alumni can view the posting and apply directly. Have a short-term work project or assignment? Students and alumni can apply to micro-internships through our partnership with Parker Dewey. Visit our website to learn more, create a free account, and post your project at no-charge.

    For more information on how to recruit LMU students, please contact Career and Professional Development at 310.338.2871 or careers@lmu.edu 

  • LMU alumni are leading the way! LMU's Strategic Plan embraces the need to expand and advance Career and Professional Development. The priority for CPD is to increase efforts to assist students and alumni throughout and beyond their LMU experience and support successful transitions to postgraduate life with advancement to mid-career professional positions. Our vision includes: additional, innovative program development; practical work experiences focusing on internships, mentoring and experiential education opportunities; and a physical and technological environment of excellence.

    Conversations are welcomed with those individuals and organizations who wish to further explore giving opportunities within and beyond those appearing on our website.

    Interested in serving on an advisory board as a current or retired employer? Contact Kim Rhodes, CPD's Director of Employer Engagement at kimberly.rhodes@lmu.edu

    Make a Difference Today! 

  • The Pride

    Join and explore The Pride, LMU’s platform for connecting with alumni for mentorship and career guidance. This platform is exclusive to the LMU community, and you can search for alumni based on industry, affinity, areas in which you need help, shared involvement in campus organizations, and more.

    Connect with fellow Lions on LinkedIn

    Follow LMU on LinkedIn by typing "Loyola Marymount University" into the search bar. Click on "follow" and then the "Alumni" tab to view over 60,000 alumni profiles. Reach out to connect with fellow alumni based on location, company, industry, degree, and more.

    View CPD’s Informational Interviews page for tips on contacting alumni via LinkedIn to grab coffee and discuss your career or educational pursuits.

    Alumni Association

    Become an LMU Ambassador. The Alumni Ambassador program empowers alumni to serve as volunteers amongst the affinity groups they feel the most connected to. 

    Attend LMU-hosted recruitment, networking and professional development events

  • Apply for Internships, Micro-Internships & Jobs

    • Visit our Job Search Strategies page for an overview of the process and industry and visit our identity-based career websites to explore opportunities 
    • Use Handshake to search for postings
      • Complete this form to gain alumni access to Handshake to schedule coaching appointments, attend events, and apply for opportunities 
    • Check out websites for your search and who's hiring recent college grads including WayUp, NACE Job Outlook, USAJobs, FlexJobs, and more 
    • Ensure your resume is polished and tailored to the positions you are applying for by referencing our resume guide and cover letter guide
    • Consider applying for micro-internships, short-term paid projects from employers, to build your resume, gain experience, and grow your network

    Build Your Network

    • 80% of jobs are never advertised or posted publicly. Network with alumni, professors, mentors, classmates, advisors, coaches, family members, and professionals in your career interest areas to access this “hidden job market”. Use our informational interview page for tips on navigating this process. 
    • Attend LMU-hosted recruitment, networking, and professional development events
    • LinkedIn is an excellent tool for research and networking 
      • Be sure your profile is updated with a professional headshot, your current city, and relevant information on your experiences, education, and skills. Alumni have access to CPD's professional headshot booth at no cost, located in VDA 135. 
      • Share a post letting your network know you have graduated and what you are looking for in terms of next steps. Tag Loyola Marymount University in your post to increase visibility and support.
      • Search "Loyola Marymount University" and click on "follow" and "alumni" to look up alumni by location, degree, industry and more
      • Follow companies you wish to work for and create job alerts
      • Join groups, follow hashtags, and be sure to have your profile "Open to Work" so recruiters and your network are aware you are searching for employment 
      • Do not upload your resume as it lists your cell phone. Use caution with all social media platforms to ensure safety and privacy. 
    • Create an account on The Pride, a mentorship and networking platform to connect with LMU students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Reach out for informational interviews to grow your network.
    • Research professional associations and meet-ups in your current city through websites like eventbrite
    • Consider volunteering through Alumni and Family Engagement, idealist.org and local organizations to build community and enhance your resume

    Get Interview Ready

    • Visit our Interview Prep page for an overview of the interview process, helpful tips, and sample questions
    • Conduct a virtual mock interview via Big Interview. Whether getting ready for a job interview or admission interview to a graduate program, Big Interview allows you to film yourself and receive feedback. Email careers@lmu.edu and a CPD staff member will provide you with access.

    Apply for a Fellowship or Fullbright

    • Many opportunities exist domestically and abroad to participate in a meaningful experience to build your character, skills, and resume/CV. Connect with the Office of National & International Fellowships to learn more about how to expand your experience beyond the Bluff.

    Participate in Post-Grad Service

    Participate in Entry-Level Rotational or Leadership/Management Training Programs 

    Explore Graduate Programs and Other Educational Options

    • Graduate School may be the next step for you if your desired career path requires an advanced degree. But first, talk with professors, mentors, and professionals in your field or industry to see what you may need. Also,
      • Research graduate programs at LMU or other institutions
        • Speak to an admission counselor, attend an information session, sign-up for a campus tour, and ask if you can observe a class or speak with current students or alumni about their experience
        • Ask questions or conduct your own research on a program's potential career pathways, career support, alumni network, financial aid, graduate assistantships, and anything else of importance to you
        • Consider working at a college or university for potential tuition remission benefits
        • If you are working for an employer currently, ask if they may cover or help cover the cost of your advanced degree                                        
    • Review job descriptions to understand the skills and qualifications they are seeking and from there, be strategic about where you may have a gap in skill or knowledge. Speak to professionals as well to see what type of degree, certification or badge may make you more competent or competitive within your field.
    • Here are some recommendations to enhance your personal and professional development:
  • The resources below provide a variety of perspectives on this topic and options to explore your next steps. Please note that this is a nuanced process and that no single source is completely accurate for every situation or individual.

  • The resources below provide a variety of perspectives on this topic. Please note that this is a nuanced process and that no single source is completely accurate for every situation.

  • Career and Professional Development serves a diverse range…however, senior-level alumni may be best served finding and consulting with a professional Executive Coach. The resources below provide guidance on this topic. Please note that executive coaching is a very personal service and everyone’s needs are different. We encourage you to do thorough research before hiring a coach.

    What is Executive Coaching?

    Executive coaching is aimed at improving the performance of high-powered executives within an organization. The role of the coach is to expose blind spots and challenge the executive to achieve greater levels of success.

    To understand the benefits of Executive Coaching visit Noomi.com

    Tips for Finding and Maximizing Your Relationship with an Executive Coach

    Resources for Finding an Executive Coach

    LinkedIn ProFinder – Executive Coach

    Noomi: The Professional Coach Directory

  • Virtual Coaching Hour

    Drop-in to receive general career coaching at no charge, hosted by Marcy Hess, CPD's Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships & External Relations. Email Marcy for her Zoom link and join for resume/CV feedback, job search strategy, interview prep, and other topics. No appointment needed. Mondays from 12:00-1:00 p.m. This is a great first step to connect for quick questions and support.

    Career Coaches Network

    CPD has vetted qualified career coaches outside of LMU with expertise in various industries, fields, topics, and career stages. Coaches can be contacted for a complimentary consultation, and you will receive discounted rates as LMU alumni for their coaching services. CPD recommends reaching out to these coaches for long-term coaching for discernment, exploration, and specialized support.

     

    Scott Asai, M.A. '01
    Scott Asai is a professional speaker and coach specializing in teaching soft skills. He focuses on improving communication, leadership and emotional intelligence. Scott's brief, conversational and practical style makes it easy for audiences and clients to implement new strategies. His background and credentials include: a B.A. in Psychology, M.A. in Organizational Leadership, Certified Professional Coach, Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, and TEDx Speaker. 

    Certifications & Education:
    Gallup: Certified Strengths Coach
    Biola University: M.A. in Organizational Leadership
    Loyola Marymount University: B.A. in Psychology

    Available Coaching Methods:
    Phone, Video Conferencing

    Career Stages:
    Early Career, Career Change or Pivot, Career Advancement, General Coaching

    Industries & Topics:
    Higher Ed, Tech, Career Exploration, Self-Exploration, Personal Strengths & Development, Professional Development, Leadership Development, Communication Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Empathy, Time Management

    Email & Website:
    scott.asai@gmail.com | scottasai.com

     

    Lindsey Dickson, M.S., M.Phil., Ph.D.
    Lindsey Dickson is an Executive Career Coach who is passionate about empowering people to overcome challenges in their job search. She brings over 15 years of diverse experience in cancer research, education, and mentorship in both higher education and tech. She currently shares her expertise as a Career Coach, focused primarily on university and boot camp alumni. Learn more, read testimonials and sign up for a free 30-minute courtesy call.

    Education:
    Walden University: Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology
    Walden University: M.Phil. in Developmental Psychology
    UAMS: M.S. in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences 
    UAPB: B.S. in Biology

    Available Coaching Methods:
    Video Conferencing

    Career Stages:
    Early Career, Career Changer, Career Advancer, General Coaching

    Industries & Topics:
    Higher Ed, Tech, Career Exploration, Self-Exploration

    Email & Website:
    coaching@lindseydickson.com | lindseydickson.com

     

    Linda Greenfield, M.S., M.B.A.
    Linda Greenfield is a preferred provider of alumni career counseling at LMU, USC, CLU, Tulane, and Yale Universities. She is the owner of Essential Career Counseling, where she assists clients of all ages and stages with the following; Determining Best Fit Career Options for a Client’s Skills, Interests, Personality and Values, Career Assessments, Career Explorations, Career Pivots, Career Research, Career Decision Strategies, Networking, Elevator Pitches, Job Search Strategies, LinkedIn Use, Marketing Materials Including Personal Branding Statements, Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interview Portfolios, LinkedIn Profile Optimization, Interview Preparation, Mock Interviews, Salary Negotiation, and Career Management Over a Lifetime.

    Her prior experience includes a variety of corporate positions in finance and management. Please schedule a complimentary introductory chat.

    Certifications & Education:
    National Career Development Association: Certified Master of Career Services
    Resume Writing Academy: Academy Certified Resume Writer
    California Lutheran University: M.S. in Counseling and Guidance
    University of Southern California: M.B.A.
    Tulane University: B.S. in Business

    Available Coaching Methods:
    Video Conferencing

    Career Stages:
    Entry-level, mid-career, senior-level, re-entry, and encore

    Industries:
    All

    Email & Website:
    linda@essentialcareercounseling.com | essentialcareercounseling.com

     

    Kevin Medina, M.P.P., M.S.W.
    Kevin Medina is a Los Angeles-based queer Latino first-generation professional who has worked at the nexus of education and social change since 2010. In addition to offering traditional career development support, he provides culturally responsive, trauma-informed and strengths-focused career coaching services to enhance various factors that may be impacting clients’ career development success. He possesses expertise supporting clients who are seeking careers within government, schools and universities, nonprofit organizations, foundations, and social impact consulting firms.

    In his full-time role, Medina is UCLA Luskin’s Director of the Office of Student Affairs & Alumni Relations, where he manages their career services, student support and wellness initiatives, employer and alumni relations, fellowship administration and organization partnerships, and civic engagement programs. In his spare time, he performs with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles and provides data analysis consulting for L.A. County Board of Supervisors on hate crimes in Los Angeles.

    Education:
    UCLA: Master of Public Policy and Master of Social Welfare
    UCI: B.A. in Psychology and Social Behavior 

    Available Coaching Methods:
    In-Person or Video Conferencing

    Career Stages:
    Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Coaching

    Industries & Topics:
    Higher Education, LGBTQ Organizations, Public Policy/Administration, Social Work, Urban Planning

    Email & Website:
    kmed@ucla.edu | medinaconsulting.my.canva.site

     

    Matt Mills, M.A. '14, P.C.C.
    Matt Mills is a professional leadership and career coach, facilitator, and speaker with 12 years of experience guiding individuals and teams from top companies including Meta, Google, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures, NASA, USC, and Salesforce. He is currently the Leadership Coach for goodr Sunglasses, heading leadership coaching and development initiatives for their executive and leadership team. Based in Los Angeles, he's an ICF Professional Certified Coach, and holds an MA in Guidance and Counseling from Loyola Marymount University. Matt's mission is to guide individuals towards a more meaningful, balanced, and thriving life and career, empowering them to unlock their full leadership potential and achieve lasting success in both their personal and professional journeys.

    Certifications & Education:
    International Coaching Federation: Professional Certified Coach
    Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching: Certified Professional Coach
    iPEC: Energy Leadership Index - Master Practitioner (ELI-MP)     
    iPEC: COR.E Leadership Dynamics Specialist
    Center for Transformational Coaching: Certified Deep Transformational Coach
    Certified Sparketype Advisor
    Loyola Marymount University: M.A. in Guidance and Counseling
    Stonehill College: B.A. in History 

    Available Coaching Methods:
    In-Person, Phone, Individual, Group, Video Conferencing

    Career Stages:
    Mid-Career, Career Change/Transition, Aspiring Leaders, New Leaders to C-Suite

    Industries & Topics:
    Entertainment, Advertising, Tech, Higher Ed, Consulting, Consumer Goods/Retail, Leadership, Management, Career Well-Being and Engagement

    Email:
    Matt@MattCMills.com

     

    Cynthia Orduña, B.A. '19
    Cynthia Orduña is a career and business coach who helps multi-passionate individuals design a career that allows them to explore all their diverse interests so they can live a happy and fulfilling life doing what they love. As a creative and multi-passionate herself, Cynthia has worked in a variety of different industries such as tech, public relations, entertainment, travel, advertising, and consulting. She has coached over 300 people, from entry to senior levels, in developing their one-of-a-kind career paths and has been featured in publications such as Business Insider, The Balance Careers, The Zoe Report, and more.

    LMU Alumni will receive 30% off all of her career coaching services. You can sign up for a free 20-minute introduction call here.

    Education:
    Loyola Marymount University: B.A. in Studio Arts

    Available Coaching Methods:
    Video Conferencing, Phone, WhatsApp, Online Course

    Career Stages:
    Entry-level to Executive-level

    Industries & Topics:
    All

    Email & Website:
    cynthia@cynthiaorduna.com | cynthiaorduna.com

     

    Looking to join the Career Coaches Network? Email your resume or CV along with a brief bio to Marcy Hess