Story by Michelle Hawks, Contributing writer

Matt Purdy began his new role as director of career services on March 1.

Before coming to Murray State, Purdy worked for Southern Illinois University-Carbondale for 10 years. He said while he loved where he was, he looks forward to the challenges this new position brings and being part of the team.

“I’ve always noticed Murray State,” Purdy said. “I’ve always heard really good things about it.”

He said he will be using what he has learned at Southern Illinois to improve Career Services and better serve students.

He said he has spent the first few days on the job “feeling out” his responsibilities, which include the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of Career Services. He said he has also been looking at what physical resources are available.

“It’s been very encouraging,” he said.

In the past few months, Purdy said he has met several Racers and their families, which has allowed him to gain a better understanding about the area and the university.

“Everybody here is nice—the people I meet in the grocery store, the faculty, the staff, the administration, the students.” Purdy said. “It’s a special place.”

As for future plans regarding Career Services, Purdy said he isn’t ready to talk about specifics; however, he knows the overall theme will be service.

“To my knowledge, nobody is required to use Career Services, so we have to be good to those who do,” Purdy said.

He said he realizes there is definitely room to grow and is working on brainstorming ideas on how to achieve that growth.