Her Story
About Karrie
Karrie Trzcinka Schultz, MSW, is the Founder and Career Consultant of Guiding Light Careers, a career coaching practice based in the Detroit Metropolitan Area dedicated to making career support more accessible, flexible, and human-centered. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a Minor in Advertising from Oakland University (Rochester Hills, MI) in 2011 and completed her Master of Social Work in Community Organizing and Health at the University of Michigan School of Social Work (Ann Arbor, MI) in 2014. Her academic and professional foundation reflects a strong blend of communication, advocacy, and systems-level thinking, which has shaped her approach to career development throughout her 13+ years in higher education. Karrie has built a distinguished career in university career services, most recently serving as Assistant Director of Career Development at the University of Michigan. In this role, she provided high-level career advising, led program development initiatives, and supported hundreds of students annually in navigating academic-to-career transitions. Her work also included collaboration with cross-campus partners, leadership in international student career development efforts, and contributions to large-scale programming designed to expand access to career readiness resources. Across all of her roles, she has been recognized for her relational approach, strong communication skills, and ability to meet individuals where they are in their professional journey. Her practice is grounded in empathy, individualized support, and a deep understanding of the intersection between personal well-being and professional growth. After experiencing significant personal health challenges—Karrie made the intentional decision to transition away from institutional employment in order to prioritize her well-being and create a more sustainable, flexible way of working. This life shift became the catalyst for founding Guiding Light Careers, launching in early May 2026, with a mission to redefine career coaching through accessibility and compassion. Through Guiding Light Careers, Karrie offers 90-minute, a la carte coaching sessions designed to eliminate the financial and structural barriers often associated with traditional coaching models. Sessions are available during daytime hours, evenings, and some weekends, allowing clients to engage in support that fits their lives. Her approach integrates her social work training with practical career strategy, creating a space where clients are not only supported in their professional goals but also in their overall well-being. Karrie’s work is rooted in the belief that well-being and meaningful, fulfilling careers are not mutually exclusive. She is dedicated to helping clients design sustainable, aligned paths forward that support both their professional aspirations and their overall health.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Karrie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to trusting my instincts and acting on ideas, even when they felt uncomfortable. Growth doesn’t happen without some level of risk, and I’ve learned to lean into that. I’ve also prioritized connection—listening, learning from others, and building relationships that create opportunities and momentum.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
There’s a quote that has always stayed with me: “Never confuse what you’re offered with what you’re worth.”
Early in my career, I didn’t fully understand that. I settled—accepting roles, salaries, and workplace norms because I assumed that was just how things worked. Over time, I realized that settling was pulling me further away from my values, my standards, and my sense of self-worth. What I’ve learned is this: your value isn’t defined by an offer, a title, or an organization’s limitations. Every person brings unique strengths, perspective, and potential for something greater.If you’re in a space where your talents aren’t recognized or you don’t feel valued, pay attention to that. It’s not something to ignore—it’s information. And often, it’s a sign that you’re not in the right environment. The right opportunity won’t just check boxes—it will energize you. It will align with who you are and remind you of what you bring to the table. And when you find that, there’s a sense of clarity and wholeness that makes you realize just how much you were meant for more.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Go for it. It’s scary and anxiety-provoking—but that energy is also a signal. When an idea stays with you and won’t let go, it’s often pointing you in the right direction.
Stay curious. Talk to people. Get a clear sense of the landscape and where you can offer something distinct and meaningful. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—ask for help, seek perspective, and learn from those who’ve been there.
When I was building my business, I connected with professionals in career development, former colleagues, and other business owners. Those conversations helped me understand what was missing and where I could add value.
Give yourself permission to try, to learn, and to make mistakes. That’s how clarity builds. Over time, you’ll find your rhythm—and your path will start to feel like your own.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Just when you think you’ve mastered learning about a topic or industry, something shifts. It’s exciting—but it also reinforces the importance of staying current so you can offer the most relevant, informed guidance to colleagues and clients. Engaging in professional and learning communities creates space to grow alongside others, exchange ideas, and continuously evolve. That shared growth is one of the most fulfilling aspects of career coaching.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity, balance, growth, empathy, and empowerment are core values that guide both my personal and professional life. They shape how I show up in the world and are deeply reflected in the work I do at Guiding Light Careers. My goal is for every client to feel a stronger sense of alignment between their work and personal life—creating space for both to coexist in a way that reflects their values, supports their well-being, and fosters meaningful fulfillment.
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