Career Design & Discovery
Career Design & Discovery is a new initiative launching in 2026 that will help liberal arts and sciences students in UVA’s College of Arts & Sciences develop the habits of mind that will prepare them for success in a rapidly changing world. As workforce needs evolve to meet global challenges, including the rise of AI, resilience and adaptability are key attributes our students will need for lifelong career success. The initiative will encourage students to approach their career journey as a human-centered process, in which exploration, experimentation, and discovery are central. Career Design & Discovery aims to help A&S students connect what they are learning in the classroom to real world challenges and to develop the skills needed to positively impact society. Our approach will set the stage for students to engage their curiosities, try new things, and lean into their human connections throughout their time at UVA.
A new and evolving model, Career Design & Discovery will reach students through integrated advising, experiential learning in and out of the classroom, and alumni connections. We intend to leverage UVA’s existing infrastructure to meet students at every stage of their development, from the time they matriculate through graduation, and beyond. Our goal is to help students design their careers with purpose and intention, and to look forward to their futures with a sense of anticipation, adventure, and joy.
Executive Director of Career Design & Discovery
Julia Lapan has a celebrated track record of developing innovative career and professional development programs for students. Before joining the A&S Office of Undergraduate Education in January 2026, Lapan worked 11 years at the University of Virginia’s School of Engineering, where she led career development and international programs. Overall, Lapan has worked in higher education for over two decades. Lapan holds a master’s degree and a doctorate from UVA’s School of Education and Human Development and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from College of the Holy Cross, where she ran track and cross country.