About Lauren Payne

My role at UC San Diego

I serve as the Assistant Director of the Career and Internship Advising team. I supervise a great team of career advisors, coordinate programs, and advise students and alumni in all phases of career planning including self assessment, career exploration, and job search strategies.

My career path

After completing my psychology degree from Hillsdale College, I decided that I needed a vacation from academics. I headed north to Mackinac Island where I spent a season working as a concierge for a bed and breakfast. At the first sight of snow, I decided it was time to head back to the South, and soon after, began an event planner position at the Citadel in Charleston, SC. I returned to graduate school in August 2000 and pursued a Master's degree in College Student Development and School Counseling. Upon completing my coursework I ventured across the country to complete a one-year internship at the University of California, Santa Barbara. I accepted my first official career counselor position at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, NC. I've been advising students at UC San Diego since 2005.

The rewards in doing what I do

I enjoy the variety that my position offers: advising students, delivering presentations, coordinating events, and teaching classes. Overall, I get the greatest amount of satisfaction from watching students accomplish their career goals.

My words of wisdom to students

Get involved outside of the classroom - study abroad, intern, join a student organization, write for you campus newspaper, or volunteer.

In my free time...

I love to travel, play tennis, volunteer, and hike, and I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.