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Calling & Career Conversations

April 2, 2026

By Madeleine Saephan

Whether you’re beginning college, halfway through or about to graduate, all of us ponder similar questions around the topic of calling and career:

How do I find my calling?

A calling is a life direction that feels deeply meaningful and aligned with your values, strengths and desire to serve others. Unlike a job you can lose, calling provides lasting purpose and can be lived out through paid work or volunteering. Most people discover their calling gradually through experience—by noticing what energizes them, recognizing their strengths and paying attention to problems they care about solving.

Steps to guide you:

  • Reflect on what work excites you
  • Identify your natural strengths
  • Try different roles, projects or volunteer opportunities
  • Pay attention to what feels meaningful

How do I know what career is right for me?

The right career usually sits at the intersection of three things: your strengths, your interests and opportunities in the job market. A career that fits you well will challenge you while still feeling engaging and sustainable over time.

Questions to consider:

  • What skills come naturally to you?
  • What work do you enjoy doing repeatedly?
  • What problems do you care about solving?

What should I do if I feel lost after graduation?

Feeling lost after graduation is very common because the structure of school disappears and the door is opened to a range of possibilities. Instead of trying to find the perfect path immediately, focus on gaining experience and learning about yourself through work, internships or volunteer opportunities.

Helpful next steps:

If you’re feeling stressed about your future or wondering what you’re actually meant to do after college, you’re not the only one. Come hang at Calling & Career Conversations!

What exactly happens during Calling & Career Conversations?

Our career team provides coffee (or chai) for traditional undergraduate students as we create space to process purpose, calling and career paths.

Is it more like a discussion group, a workshop or just casual conversation?

It’s a mix between a group chat and casual conversation! Curated questions and topics are used to open discussions, but students are welcome to ask questions and help guide the conversation. Our hope is that it’s a relaxed environment to reflect and share as you feel comfortable.

How many people usually attend?

Space is limited to 10 students to maintain personal engagement.

When and where is the event happening?

The event takes place in Jost Lounge (entrance is on the north side of Jost Hall) from 12:15–1:15 p.m. The final Calling & Career Conversation of the semester will be on Thursday, April 23, from 12:15–1:15 p.m. Follow FPU_Career_Development on Instagram for upcoming events and details.

Do I need to sign up beforehand or can I just show up?

Please sign up beforehand because space is limited to 10 students, and we want to ensure enough coffee/chai is provided. Visit FPU_Career_Development on Instagram for registration link.

Is it really free, including the coffee?

Yes! Coffee/chai is FREE for students, and you can earn college hour credit!

Why should I come?

Calling & Career Conversations is a safe space to ask questions you may not always say out loud, process life with other students and receive encouragement as you navigate your college journey and look toward life after graduation. 

Questions?

Email Maddie Saephan at madeleine.saephan@fresno.edu

Photo of Madeleine Saephan

Madeleine Saephan , M.A.

Career Counselor
Traditional Undergraduate Students

Maddie Saephan serves as the career counselor for traditional undergraduate students in the Career Development Center. She finds purpose and joy in supporting college students as they navigate academics, relationships and the journey of discovering their calling. Outside of work, Maddie enjoys quality time with family and friends, crafting lattes at home, traveling and capturing moments through photography.

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