For nearly three years, Kaitlynn Johnson has helped University of Nebraska-Lincoln students turn career curiosity into real experience through programs like Micro-Internships and HuskerWork.
A Nebraska native, Kaitlynn earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before continuing into a master’s program in counseling psychology. She is now pursuing a doctorate in counseling psychology, which she expects to complete in approximately three years.
Kaitlynn joined the University Career Services team as a graduate research assistant during her second year of graduate school. Throughout her time in the role, she has contributed to a wide range of programs and projects that support student success.
"My first two years primarily focused on helping run our Micro-Internship Program, which connects students with employers for short-term, project-based internships," Kaitlynn said. "My job was to support program marketing, review data from each semester, and maintain communication with students and employers."
Additionally, Kaitlynn facilitated HuskerWork, a professional development program for student employees. She also created student newsletters, produced the Husker Recruitment Report, assisted with career fair operations and supported various office initiatives as needed.
Kaitlynn emphasized how this role expanded her understanding of career development and student support systems within a large university.
"This role has prepared me for future work by broadening my knowledge of career development,” she said. “It expanded my knowledge around having important conversations with students and knowing what resources are available across campus.”
Kaitlynn is most passionate about the relationships she builds with students throughout her work.
"My favorite part of this role has been the different ways I've been able to interact with students," Kaitlynn said. "During our Micro-Internship program, it was so rewarding to learn about students' goals and the skills they wanted to develop for future internships and job opportunities."
Kaitlynn's background in journalism and psychology has shaped her approach to student development, combining communication with an understanding of personal and external factors that impact well-being. She hopes to build on this foundation in her future career as a mental health therapist for young adults.
"After graduation, my goal is to work as a mental health therapist, hopefully with college-aged students,” she said. “College students are at such a unique stage because they are on their own for the first time, learning what is important to them, and exploring their identities. It feels really special to play a part in helping them through that journey."
Kaitlynn’s journey reflects how academic and experiential learning can come together to shape meaningful career paths in student support and mental health.
