Sara Jay
In my role as the Associate Director for Career Pathways and Education at the University of Florida’s Career Connections Center, I provide leadership and spearhead strategic initiatives to shape and elevate the C3’s Career Pathways model. Proactively removing barriers to industry education, this model empowers students to explore diverse career and skill development opportunities, regardless of their majors.
I am a Certified Master of Career Services (CMCS) and a Certified Facilitating Career Development Instructor (FCD-I) accredited by the National Career Development Association. I have the privilege of delivering extensive training to new and experienced career development professionals through an intensive 120-hour Facilitating Career Development curriculum. This experience-based curriculum teaches essential skills needed for the future of work. Engaging in dynamic conversations with fellow career development professionals to share insights and nurture their evolution into exemplary practitioners is a passion of mine
Specialties and Interests
Career Pathways, Peer Advising Programs, Training and DevelopmentBrendan Daigle
As Manager for Career Pathways for Healthcare and Health Sciences, I strive to provide support and assistance to students exploring and pursing careers in both individual and public health.
I grew up in southeast Louisiana, and as a transplant from one swamp to another, I enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities Gainesville has to offer. I also enjoy facilitating interactive workshops, giving students the opportunity to learn and practice relevant career skills. Students and alumni can also meet with me for individualized support.
Set up a career planning appointment with me, connect with me on Gator Network, or feel free to email me with any career-related questions.
Gabby Diaz-Portalatin
Career Pathways Coach
I am a Manager for Career Pathways working with the Architecture, Manufacturing, Natural Resources, and Agriculture Pathway. I provide customized support and resources for students in any major who are exploring careers within architecture, design, construction, environmental conservation, manufacturing, and other related industries. As a first generation college graduate, my goal is to remove barriers to accessing information and experiences critical for making informed career decisions.
Schedule a one-on-one appointment with me or request an outreach for your student organization.
Specialties and Interests
Architecture, Manufacturing, Natural Resources, and Agriculture PathwayKyle Schramm
Career Pathways Coach
My name is Kyle and I am the Career Pathways Coach for the Healthcare and Health Sciences Pathway. In this role, I provide customized resources and support to students and alumni who have a focus in these industries. Outside of work, I am an avid golfer and sports enjoyer! As a first generation Gator alum, I am very passionate about helping the Gator Nation continue to grow and succeed. I look forward to having career conversations with students and providing them with the necessary resources to see them prosper. Please do not hesitate to reach out and connect!
Click here to schedule an appointment with me!
Karissa Singh
I am a Career Pathways Coach with a focus on STEAM – that’s STEM with the Arts spliced in. I aim to help everyone I work with strive toward the career goals that align with their ideal self. This looks not just like creating resumes and looking up job opportunities but also exploring what gaining experience and creating connections look like. I am a UF alumni who majored in Psychology. I also minored in Classics, and completed courses the Pre-Dental track. Fun facts about me, my favorite way to catch up with my siblings is to get online and game with them and I love doing escape rooms. My role is to be a co-pilot in the journey of finding personal and professional success. You got your brilliant skills and ambition and I’ve got my listening ears on. Let’s go!
Jillian Prescott
I am a career pathways coach for architecture, manufacturing, natural resources, and agriculture at the University of Florida. I offer support to students and alumni by providing personalized career planning sessions and participating in events to share career resources. My goal is to help Gators set realistic goals, develop skills, and create a roadmap to achieve career aspirations. As an experienced educator, I am passionate about helping people discover their voice and enhance their talents. When I am not a work, I enjoy traveling, baking, and spending time with family.
Please feel free to reach out to me for any inquiries or questions regarding career services. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out the Career Hub for additional information and resources.
I look forward to working with you soon!
Sarah Blackmon
Career Pathways Coach -- Human Services, Consulting, and Education
Hello Gator Nation! I’m Sarah, and I serve as the Career Coach for Human Services, Consulting, and Education. Within my role, I support the Gator Nation by conducting career planning appointments, facilitating career-based workshops, and creating educational resources centered on career development and professional branding. I also provide outreaches to classes, campus partners, and student organizations!
In my role as a Career Coach and previously as a sixth-grade schoolteacher, I have always strived to create spaces for students to maintain autonomy and “center themselves” within their professional journeys. I hold the belief that career is a process — meaning there’s no set path to reach a particular career, it’s all about the experiences you have along the way to reach that ideal path for yourself.
Schedule an appointment with me for all your career and professional development-related inquiries!