Kara Jo Levery (’09)

Sociology/Anthropology Major – Anthropology

When did you graduate?

I graduated in May 2009, with a BA in SOAN and minors in both Spanish and Italian Studies.

Did you focus on sociology or anthropology?

I came in focused on anthropology, due to a love of cultures and history, and then migrated over primarily to the sociology side around sophomore year! Sociology was a new discipline to me, but I grew to feel that a knowledge of our complex social structures would be deeply beneficial to the career paths I was exploring at the time. I’m very glad that I was able to have access to coursework and experiences within both disciplines! They complement each other well, and have helped me develop a richer understanding of humanity, past and present.

What co-curricular or extracurricular activities were you involved in?

I was very active in both a student-led organization that ran book drives for Better World Books (a B Labs-certified B corporation), as well as the Epsilon chapter of Alpha Phi Omega, which is a co-ed national service fraternity. Due to a focus on service activities, I was able to apply the knowledge I was gaining in my coursework in Sociology/Anthropology to learn more about how culture and social structures shape the world around us.

What are you doing now?

After an 8-year career in higher education admissions, I have shifted into career services with a focus on student development and career coaching. In July of this year, I will have been in higher ed for 10 years! I also run a small business on the side in graphic design and digital marketing called Kara Jo Levery Consulting, LLC. Outside of work, I’m actively involved in the Truman and Kirksville communities as the Head Advisor for Alpha Phi Omega – an undergraduate co-ed service fraternity – and with the Board of Directors of Take Root Café – a non-profit pay-what-you-can café. Also, I was invited to join the combined Truman choirs and orchestra in performing Brahms “Ein Deutsches Requiem” this semester, and really enjoyed it!

How did you get to this place in your life/ career?

Boy, was it a journey! During my time in the Office of Admission at Truman, I was assigned a variety of projects. Through those opportunities, I honed my relationship-building skills, as well as skills in data processing and analytics, event planning and management, and in student development. My love for working in student development grew as I began managing student workers, so I decided to pursue a career shift into Student Affairs via career coaching within Truman’s Career Center. I’ve absolutely cherished the time that I’ve been able to spend helping our undergrads, grad students, and alumni transition from one phase of life into their next destination.

Have you been to graduate school? If so, where did you go? Did you go right after graduating from Truman?

Not yet, however, I’m exploring options to pursue within the next few years! A degree in Sociology/Anthropology opens so many doors to the future, it’s been really difficulty for me to pick – but I’ll get there

Do you have any advice for Truman students who are interested in going to graduate school?

Come to the Career Center! (Shameless plug) But seriously, seek out support from your network. Your faculty have an incredible amount of knowledge in this area. You may also know folks working in career areas that you’d like to enter into – so go and chat! If you’re unsure of how to seek out this information or make connections with people in your field, come visit the Career Center and get some advice. We’re here to help in any way we can!

How has the education you’ve received from Truman helped you?

Due to my experiences at and through Truman, I’ve been able to develop a deeper understanding of the world around me, including my role in it and the systems that impact me. Truman helped me gain invaluable skills that have ensured I can make an impact in my career and with causes I’m passionate about.

Is/are there any particular class(es) that you’re glad you took? Did you like it/them at the time?

Oh, man, this could be a very long list!! Within the major, all the classes I took were impactful. Two that I really enjoyed were “Sociology of Social Problems” with Dr. Ray Barrow and “Environmental Sociology” with Dr. Bonnie Lynn Mitchell-Green. Both courses introduced me to topics that were new to me and that expanded my mind in new, intriguing ways. I also took an Art History course called “Renaissance Art” with Dr. Julia DeLancey in which I applied my background in Sociology to do interdisciplinary research on the lived experiences of women painters during the Italian Renaissance. All of these classes broadened my critical thinking skills.

What is your favorite memory of your time at Truman?

Spending time outdoors with friends!

Why is Truman a good school at which to study?

High quality education, driven students, and supportive faculty and staff!

Do you have any advice for someone wanting to go into the same line of work as you?

Spend time growing your relationship-building skills. Learn how to easily understand and empathize with people. Communicating with respect and clarity is also key.

What do you miss most about campus life/ living in Kirksville?

Still here and loving every minute! I’ve developed a close social circle, and have made many connections throughout town – it’s a lovely community and I’m happy to still be a part of it.

If you could teach current students one thing, what would it be?

Balance your time between academic learning, social learning through experiences, and meeting your individual needs. There may not be time for everything, but there is time for the important things! Make life here in Kirksville meaningful to you in whatever way that looks to you, and it will bring you so much success in every area of your life.