Brandyn Knight

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

"Clarity comes from engagement, not hesitation—start before you feel ready.” This was the most transformative piece of career advice I received as a student, and it came from a mentor who had successfully navigated multiple transitions—first as a professor of psychology, then as a leadership coach and organizational consultant. Like many students, I believed I needed to have it all figured out before I took my first real step: the perfect resume, the ideal job title, the right qualifications. But my mentor challenged that mindset. She taught me that professional growth rarely happens in a straight line, and that waiting until we feel “ready” often leads to missed opportunities and untapped potential. She explained that careers are built through iterative action—by showing up, learning through experience, asking better questions, and adapting along the way. She encouraged me to apply for roles even if I didn’t meet 100% of the qualifications, to initiate conversations with professionals I admired even if I felt intimidated, and to pursue projects or passions before I had perfect clarity. That advice fundamentally changed how I approach risk, learning, and career development. It reminded me that momentum breeds confidence, not the other way around. Starting before I felt completely prepared gave me real-world insight, built my resilience, and opened doors I wouldn’t have recognized if I had stayed stuck in planning mode. It’s a principle I now share with others: Take the leap, start small if you have to, but don’t wait for perfect conditions. Career fulfillment and clarity come from engaging with the process, embracing uncertainty, and trusting your ability to grow through action.

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

I didn’t choose my career all at once—it unfolded through self-discovery, trial and error, and a growing awareness of what truly energizes and fulfills me. For a long time, I thought I had to have all the answers from the start. Like many others, I followed what seemed like the 'right' path—getting good grades, choosing a respected field, and doing what felt practical. But somewhere along the way, I realized that fulfillment doesn't come from ticking boxes; it comes from alignment—with your values, your strengths, and your desire to contribute meaningfully. What guided me was curiosity: a deep interest in people, in personal growth, and in the inner shifts that allow someone to live a more authentic and purposeful life. I found myself drawn to conversations where people opened up about their goals, doubts, and hopes—and I felt most alive when I could help them connect the dots between who they are and what they’re capable of becoming. So no, I didn’t know all along. But I followed the clues: the subjects I loved, the people who inspired me, the feedback I got when I was in my element. I tried different jobs, said yes to learning experiences, reflected often, and stayed open to evolving. Ultimately, I chose a career in coaching and personal development because it allows me to do work that is deeply human, transformational, and empowering. It’s not just a career—it’s a calling. And I believe the most meaningful careers are discovered, not decided. They emerge at the intersection of what the world needs and what brings you alive.

What is it like when your job gets tough?

When my job gets tough, it becomes a mirror—reflecting not just the challenges I face, but the values I hold and the strength I’m growing. Working in career coaching and personal development means holding space for others when they feel stuck, uncertain, or overwhelmed. So when my work gets hard—whether it’s navigating complex client needs, managing the emotional toll of deep conversations, or dealing with the unpredictability of running a business—I remind myself of why I started. Tough days test your patience, your self-belief, and your clarity. But they also reveal your capacity to grow. I’ve learned to see difficulty not as a signal to stop, but as a signpost that I’m pushing into meaningful territory. It’s often in the struggle that breakthroughs happen—for my clients, and for me. I’ve built routines around self-reflection, wellness, and community so I can stay grounded when things feel heavy. I journal, check in with mentors, and try to turn every hard moment into a learning opportunity. And most importantly, I remind myself that transformation—both personal and professional—is rarely linear. It’s messy, vulnerable, and deeply worthwhile. So when the job gets tough, I don’t just endure it. I engage with it. Because those moments are where my purpose is tested—and ultimately, where it’s strengthened.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

The one piece of career advice I wish someone had given me when I was younger is this: In a world full of endless opportunities, clarity is your greatest compass. We’re told that the world is full of options—and it is. That’s both a gift and a trap. Without a clear sense of who you are, what matters to you, and where you want to go, it’s easy to drift from one thing to the next, chasing possibilities but never feeling fulfilled. Burnout doesn’t always come from working hard—it often comes from working hard in too many directions without purpose or alignment. What I wish I understood earlier is that self-discovery isn’t optional. It’s the foundation. Knowing your values, your goals, and the kind of life you want to build allows you to say no to what doesn’t fit and yes to what moves you forward. It gives you permission to focus—not just on what’s possible, but on what’s meaningful. The world is evolving rapidly. Careers shift. Industries transform. New paths open while old ones disappear. The ability to “go with the flow” is essential—but it’s equally important to know where your current is meant to take you. When you’re grounded in your authentic direction, you can adapt to change without losing yourself in it. So take the time to know yourself deeply. Then build your career around that knowing—with intention, with focus, and with a strategy that aligns with who you truly are. That’s how you create a life that’s not only successful, but sustainable.

In layperson terms, what do you actually do at work?

In simple terms, my job is all about helping people find meaningful and sustainable careers while also working with employers to create more inclusive and diverse job opportunities. I support individuals, particularly those from underrepresented groups, at-risk populations, people with disabilities, and those facing mental health challenges, in securing long-term employment that aligns with their passions and strengths. The goal is to help these individuals not only find a job but find a career they truly enjoy, so they don’t wake up dreading their work every day or experience burnout. I also work closely with employers, especially those committed to inclusivity, to help them create job opportunities that are accessible and supportive of all kinds of people. This includes developing workplace environments that cater to diverse needs and ensuring that employees from all backgrounds have the chance to thrive. By connecting people to the right employers and creating work environments that foster growth and well-being, I aim to help both individuals and organizations achieve long-term success and fulfillment. In essence, my work is about guiding individuals to meaningful careers while collaborating with employers to build inclusive workplaces that benefit everyone.