Laura Holbrook joins OHIO Southern as Career Development Coordinator

Laura Holbrook knows firsthand the value of an education — and now she’s back on campus to help the next generation of Bobcats find their own paths.

As an alumna, she credits the faculty and experiences she had at OHIO Southern with shaping her future. In her new role as career development coordinator, she’s committed to paying that forward by supporting students, alumni and the broader community in their career journeys.

In her role as a career development coordinator, Holbrook will be a key resource for students and alumni as they navigate career exploration, planning and advancement.

Holbrook brings significant experience in education and community service. For the past seven years, she has worked in adult education, including time as a GED instructor and at the Star Community Justice Center. There, she supported justice-involved individuals in earning their high school equivalency and planning for post-release, including identifying schools and employers offering second-chance opportunities.

“I really wanted to come back to this campus if it was possible,” Holbrook said. “I had such wonderful experiences here and professors who left such a good impression that I wanted to be that person for students — someone who encourages them and supports them.”

Supporting OHIO students and alumni

Holbrook earned an associate degree in electronic media and a bachelor’s degree in history from . She also completed a master’s degree with the goal of returning to higher education.

As career development coordinator, she provides a wide range of services to students and alumni alike.

“I can assist with job applications, resumes, cover letters, job searching and interview preparation,” she said. “But I also offer personality, values and skills assessments to help people identify what careers align with who they are. We can do major exploration for undecided students, and I help with graduate school applications, including personal statements. I also share internship and job opportunities.”

These services are available not only to current students but also to alumni, whether they graduated last year or 15 years ago.

“I want our alumni to know that if they’re navigating a job change or exploring new ways to use their degree, they can absolutely reach out,” Holbrook said. “We’re also making sure our College Credit Plus students know these services are available to them, even if they’re just looking for a part-time job or summer work.”

Holbrook is committed to making career services accessible and supportive for all Bobcats. One of her early priorities is expanding services tailored to neurodivergent students and alumni.

“When you have an ADHD diagnosis or are on the autism spectrum, things like interviews and networking can be very intimidating,” she said. “I want to explore ways to help people feel more comfortable and confident going into those situations.”

New initiatives to help students reach their career goals

She’s also planning new initiatives, including a Career Exploration Week focused on high-demand majors such as nursing, education, social work, psychology and business. The event will bring local professionals to campus to share their experiences, including nontraditional career paths that use these degrees in creative ways. Holbrook will also facilitate a workshop at the campus mental health conference specifically for neurodivergent participants. Titled NeuroSpice, the session will help attendees identify and leverage their strengths in interviews and networking situations.

Holbrook hopes to strengthen connections across the campus and community.

“Communication is key,” she said. “I want faculty to share opportunities with their students and with me so I can help spread the word. And I want employers to reach out so I know what jobs and internships are available. We don’t know what’s out there unless we hear about it.”

She encourages students, alumni and community members not to hesitate to use the resources offered by Student Services.

“College can feel intimidating,” Holbrook said. “But we’re here to help our students and alumni succeed. Don’t be afraid to reach out.”

Holbrook’s office is located in Collins Center 114. She can be reached at 740.867.6708 or holbrookl@ohio.edu. She welcomes walk-ins when available and notes that email is often the fastest way to get in touch.

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