At Bushnell University, helping students discover their vocational calling is both a challenging and essential part of student development—one that Whitney Shoun, M.S., embraces with purpose and passion. As the Career Development Coordinator, she oversees all career services with a special emphasis on internships and employer engagement. Whether guiding students through vocational exploration or supporting their first steps into the workforce, she plays a key role in helping students bridge the gap between their academic experiences and their professional futures.
From pre-internship coaching to job search strategies and resume support, Shoun’s work spans the full spectrum of career development. She brings nationally recognized expertise as a Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) through the National Career Development Association, equipping her to meet a wide range of student needs with insight and care.
Prior to joining Bushnell, Shoun held roles in academic advising, student support, and career coaching at George Fox University and the University of Western States. She earned a Master of Science in College Student Personnel and a Graduate Certificate in Advising from Arkansas Tech University. Drawing on both her education and real-world experience, Shoun supports students through everything from choosing a major to identifying strengths, building networks, and pursuing purposeful work.
We sat down with Shoun to discuss her passion for student success, the importance of preparing students for the workforce, and how her personal experience shapes her role at Bushnell. You can watch the full interview on Bushnell University’s YouTube channel or via the embedded video below. She shares valuable insights on navigating career development, finding one’s calling, and how students can leverage Bushnell’s resources to excel in their academic and professional journeys.
Guiding Students to Discover Their Purpose
Shoun’s approach to career development is grounded in her belief that each student’s career path is unique. “My role is to guide students through discovering their strengths and passions, and then connect them with the right opportunities to set them on a path toward success,” Shoun explains. “I want students to feel confident in their vocational journey, whether that means pursuing internships, entering the job market, or continuing their education.”
In her role, Shoun goes beyond just offering job-search advice – she takes an individualized approach to career coaching that includes personal development through the CliftonStrengths assessment. By helping students identify their natural strengths, she guides them toward career paths where they can excel and find fulfillment. “Understanding your strengths is the first step toward making intentional career decisions,” she explains. “It’s about finding what excites you and how to channel that energy into something meaningful.”
Shoun also works with students on resume building, job search strategies, graduate school preparation, and professional networking. Through one-on-one appointments, group workshops, and guest lectures in courses, she engages with students in a variety of settings to help them develop a well-rounded skill set for entering the professional world.
Building Bridges Through Internships and Employer Connections
One of Shoun’s core responsibilities is to coach students on navigating the internship process. As the instructor for the undergraduate internship program, she leads students through the entire process: helping them choose appropriate internships, preparing them for interviews, and providing ongoing support while they gain real-world experience. She also plays a key role in building relationships with local businesses, fostering connections that provide students with valuable internship and job opportunities.
“Internships are not just about gaining experience,” Shoun emphasizes. “They’re about cultivating professional skills, learning to navigate the workplace, and finding out what you’re truly passionate about.”
A key aspect of Shoun’s work is connecting students with employers. She actively cultivates relationships with local businesses and organizations, working to ensure that Bushnell students have access to high-quality internship placements and job opportunities. Shoun also oversees employer engagement through platforms like Handshake, where she manages job postings, employer approvals, and internship opportunities.
“I believe in creating a bridge between academia and the professional world,” she says. “Employers are an essential part of the equation, and we strive to ensure our students are prepared to meet their expectations while also developing the skills that will make them invaluable in the workforce.”
Equipping Graduates for Lifelong Career Success
Shoun’s commitment to career development goes beyond college graduation. She encourages students to see their time at Bushnell as a foundation where they grow in faith, discover their calling, and prepare to serve in ways that are both practical and deeply meaningful. “It’s not just about landing a job,” she emphasizes. “It’s about finding a career where you can thrive, contribute, and grow into the person you were created to be.”
With a focus on continuous learning, industry trends, and the evolving needs of students, Shoun stays at the forefront of career services to ensure Bushnell graduates are equipped for success. Her work reflects the heart of Bushnell’s mission: fostering lives of wisdom, faith, and service.
To learn more about Bushnell University’s career support services, visit our website: www.bushnell.edu/career-development