Assistant Vice President for Student Success on Purpose, Planning, and the Power of Connection
As 海角社区 continues to elevate the student experience—through thoughtful investments in wellness, academics, and career readiness—one of the newest leaders shaping that vision is Drew P., Assistant Vice President for Student Success. A proud JCU alumnus, Drew brings over 20 years of experience advising students across higher education and returns to his alma mater with a bold, student-centered mission: to connect academics, career development, and personal exploration in ways that reflect John Carroll’s values and evolving approach. His work will play an integral role in helping students not only chart a path to professional success, but also discover a deeper sense of purpose along the way.
JCU: You’ve had an extensive career in higher education and career development. Was this always the path you envisioned?
DREW P.: Not exactly. Like many people, I found my path by following opportunities and interests. I was an undergraduate at John Carroll, double majoring in English and Spanish, and I didn’t have a clear career direction. I pursued a Master’s in English and then taught writing at Case Western Reserve. That role exposed me to faculty across disciplines—and introduced me to career services. I realized how impactful that work could be and transitioned into the field. Looking back, it all connects: helping students grow, find direction, and pursue meaningful lives.
JCU: Over the years, how have you seen the field of career services and student success evolve?
DREW P.: There’s been a major shift. Career services used to operate as standalone offices—students came in when they needed help, usually late in their college journey. Today, we take a much more integrated approach. Career development isn’t a single moment—it’s a process that should start early and be woven into every part of the student experience. That means embedding career exploration into the curriculum, using industry-specific advising, and building strong connections across campus and with employers.
JCU: What does that look like in practice at John Carroll?
DREW P.: One of our biggest priorities is combining academic and career advising into a unified experience. Our nationally recognized professional development program, which began in the Boler College of Business, has expanded to the College of Health and the College of Arts and Sciences. First-year advising now includes conversations around career interests and values, not just course schedules. We’re helping students explore possibilities early—so they can make more confident, informed choices. That structure allows for both flexibility and clarity as they grow.
JCU: John Carroll students tend to be high achievers—many want to do everything. What advice do you give to students who are trying to balance it all?
DREW P.: It’s a great problem to have—our students are incredibly motivated. But we talk a lot about impact over involvement. Being a member of ten clubs doesn’t necessarily tell your story. But leading a major initiative that reflects your values and creates real change—that stands out to employers and feels more meaningful. We encourage students to explore widely early on, then reflect and focus. That’s part of developing discernment and leadership—learning when to say yes, and when to say no.
JCU: John Carroll has a Jesuit mission at its core. How does that influence your work?
DREW P.: It's essential. Jesuit education emphasizes discernment—thinking deeply about who you are, what you value, and how you want to contribute to the world. That aligns perfectly with career development when it’s done right. Students aren’t just looking for jobs. They’re looking for direction, for purpose. Our role is to help them understand where their interests, values, and strengths intersect—and how that can shape not only their first job, but their entire life path.
JCU: Some students arrive unsure about their major—or change their minds. How does JCU support that kind of exploration?
DREW P.: That’s not just okay—it’s expected. We want students to explore, and we’ve built the infrastructure to support it. Our integrated advising model means students don’t have to bounce between offices to get academic and career guidance. Their advisors are there to help them reflect on what they’re learning inside and outside the classroom. And we encourage early experiences—whether it’s research, internships, or service work—so students can try things out. Discovering what isn’t for you is often just as valuable as finding what is.
JCU: Given the rise of AI and the pace of change in the job market, how do you view the relevance of a liberal arts education today?
DREW P.: I think it’s more valuable than ever. AI can automate tasks, but it can’t replicate the uniquely human skills students develop through a liberal arts education—critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, ethical reasoning, communication. Those skills are what employers are looking for. But students also need to know how to articulate those strengths and apply them in practical contexts. That’s where we come in—helping them connect what they’re learning with real-world experience.
JCU: What role does the John Carroll alumni network play in that process?
DREW P.: It’s one of our greatest assets. Our alumni are incredibly engaged and eager to help current students succeed. Whether they’re mentoring, providing internship opportunities, or helping build employer partnerships, their support makes a difference. You see it everywhere—from leadership roles in the NFL to finance, healthcare, education, and more. These connections don’t just open doors—they create momentum. And because our alumni know the value of a JCU education, they’re excited to pay it forward.
JCU: Looking ahead, what are you most excited to build at John Carroll?
DREW P.: I’m excited to help create a more integrated, purpose-driven approach to student success. That means unifying academic advising, career development, and mentoring so students have a strong support network from the start. It also means working across departments and colleges to create systems that are proactive, not reactive. The goal is for every student to graduate with not just a degree, but a plan—and the confidence, experiences, and connections to pursue it. There’s a lot of momentum here, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.
JCU: Outside of your professional role, how do you like to spend your time? We’ve heard you're an avid runner—true?
DREW P.: Very true. I ran cross country and track when I was a student at John Carroll, and I’ve kept running ever since. These days, it’s part of my daily routine. Early morning runs help me clear my head and set the tone for the day. I also enjoy lifting weights, mountain biking, and spending time with my wife and two daughters. We’re an active family, and I think that emphasis on wellness—physical and mental—is important for everyone, especially in a field that’s about supporting others.
