Empowering Students to Forge Fulfilling Careers

Will Donnelly, the career services coordinator for the School of Public and International Affairs, is dedicated to equipping students with the tools and resources they need to navigate their professional journeys. From guiding them through graduate school options to connecting them with potential employers, Donnelly's expertise and passion are instrumental in shaping the next generation of leaders.

Unlocking the Potential of Tomorrow's Changemakers

Bridging the Gap Between Education and Careers

Donnelly's role extends far beyond the traditional scope of career services. With a diverse background that includes a bachelor's degree in international relations and economic development, a master's in fiction writing, and a doctorate in literature and creative writing, he brings a unique perspective to his work. Donnelly's expertise in dystopian literature and his interest in envisioning a better world have profoundly influenced his approach to supporting students."By helping students further their own careers, I'm contributing to help make the world a better place," Donnelly explains. This holistic view of career development allows him to guide students not just towards job opportunities, but towards fulfilling their aspirations and making a meaningful impact.

Navigating the Complexities of the Job Market

Donnelly's deep understanding of the job market and graduate school options is invaluable to the students he serves. Whether they are seeking internships in Athens or exploring international opportunities in New Zealand and Malaysia, Donnelly is adept at connecting them with the right resources and programs."We have a number of partners here in Athens, but we also have internships in other parts of the state, other parts of the United States and in other parts of the world," Donnelly says. "We've got a couple of international internships that are going to happen this coming spring in New Zealand and Malaysia, so I help to facilitate those and help get students paid for the work that they do."

Empowering Students to Navigate Uncharted Territories

Donnelly's role extends beyond simply providing information; he actively helps students navigate the uncertainties and challenges that come with the transition from college to the professional world. He understands that this is a pivotal time in a student's life, and he is committed to guiding them through the process with empathy and understanding."In some ways, it's the first time in a person's life when the path is not completely planned ahead of them," Donnelly reflects. "If I can make a student feel better about their future, I think that's probably the most important thing that I do."

Fostering a Supportive Community for Aspiring Writers

When he's not dedicated to his work in career services, Donnelly pursues his passion for writing and literature. He has recently taken on the task of founding a writer's workshop called Avid Writers' Collective, where writers can come together to critique each other's work in a supportive and collaborative environment."It's a lot like what I used to do in the classroom," Donnelly says. "I like this because there are no grades and it's a little more freeform and casual."

Embracing the Diversity of Career Paths

Drawing from his own experiences in international relations, literature, and now career services, Donnelly encourages students to explore the subjects that ignite their curiosity and passion."You don't have to do the thing that you studied in your graduate degree," Donnelly advises. "It doesn't trap you in a certain field. The idea is to help you learn how to think, how to organize your time and how to move your brain in different directions."With Donnelly's guidance and the resources he provides, students can feel empowered to turn the page to their futures, confident in their ability to forge their own unique paths.