Career Development Specialist

Liaison to the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Cullen College of Engineering, and College of Technology

Toia Polk serves as the Career Development Specialist for the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Cullen College of Engineering, and College of Technology. As a Career Development Specialist, she works with students through their major or career exploration, supports students to prepare strong application materials, teaches students strategies on how to have the confidence in their own skills and abilities, and provides individual recommendations based on student needs.

Toia earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science from Tougaloo College and later pursued her master's in Criminal Justice from Mississippi Valley State University.

Toia's career trajectory shifted when she discovered her love for working with students as a coordinator for Upward Bound at Hinds Community College. This experience ignited her passion for fostering student success and development.

Relocating to Houston, Toia further honed her skills and served as a coordinator in the university career center at Texas Southern University. In this role, she dedicated herself to assisting students in their professional development journey.

Toia feels honored to be a part of students' journeys as they connect with the person they aspire to become. Her approach is warm and personable. By working closely with students, she aims to bring out their strengths, fostering a supportive environment that emphasizes self-awareness to help them uncover and achieve their goals.

Toia invites Coogs to take the next step in their career journey by scheduling an appointment with her through Cougar Pathway. With a wealth of experience and a genuine dedication to student success, she is ready to guide and empower students toward fulfilling and rewarding career paths.