Curiosity and courage: Sue Hampton’s formula for embracing the unknown

Featuring: Susan Hampton (Sue), Assistant Professor of Arts and Integrated Studies

From Seoul to Surrey, classrooms to international development, Susan (Sue) Hampton’s career has never followed a straight line. And that’s exactly what she teaches her students: that success often comes from embracing the unexpected.

Now an Assistant Professor in the College of Arts at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), Sue brings her global experiences, her deep commitment to adult education, and her passion for critical pedagogy into every lecture, conversation, and curriculum she designs. With roots in psychology and a career journey that spans continents and disciplines, Sue knows firsthand that life doesn’t always come with a clear blueprint — and that’s something to celebrate.

In this conversation, we hear from Sue about her unconventional path, the values that drive her work, and the advice she hopes her students carry long after their time at UFV.

 

College of Arts: Could you start by sharing a bit about your journey as an educator?

Sue: My journey was definitely non-traditional. I started at UVic as a Psychology major and honestly had no clear career path in mind. After graduating, I moved overseas to teach English in South Korea and Taiwan. I had planned to stay for just a year — and ended up staying seven! I loved teaching far more than I expected.

Back in Canada, I dabbled in international development, and my work at the Coady International Institute is where I really became intrigued by adult education and critical pedagogy. That led me to pursue a Master’s in Educational Leadership at UVic, and since then, I’ve worked in all kinds of educational roles: curriculum development for K-12 sustainability resources, supporting graduate students at SFU, and as an educational developer at UBC. Each step taught me something new — and now I’m thrilled to be back in the classroom working with undergraduates at UFV.

CoA: What inspired you to specialize in your field?

Sue: While at SFU, I was helping graduate students prepare for life beyond their PhDs. Many were feeling anxious about leaving academia, unsure of what their next steps could be. That really opened my eyes to how deeply people struggle with career uncertainty — especially in academic environments.

My doctoral research focused on the career development journeys of PhD students who pursue non-academic careers. Through that, I became immersed in the theories and practices of career education. Now, I use those tools to help all students feel more confident in their evolving career paths.

CoA: What do you hope your students take away from your classes?

Sue: I want them to walk away feeling empowered. I teach Professional Practices courses where we explore not only career development theories like Planned Happenstance, but also the idea that it’s okay — and even beneficial — to not have a perfectly mapped out plan.

I hope they become more confident in their skills and open to trying new things. It’s all about curiosity, taking small risks, and trusting that opportunities will come when you engage with the world around you.

CoA: Reflecting on your career so far, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being an educator?

Sue: Seeing students transform their mindsets. Many come in thinking they need a perfectly mapped-out plan. When I help them realize that careers unfold over time — and that it’s okay not to have all the answers — I see real relief and confidence begin to form.

That transformation, where anxiety gives way to self-assurance and possibility, is the most rewarding part of what I do.

CoA: If you could leave a lasting message or piece of advice for your students and community, what would it be?

Sue: You are not static, and neither is the world. Everything evolves. Let go of the need to control every detail, and remain open to the unexpected. Keep moving forward, even if the path is unclear. Often, the best opportunities show up when you least expect them — and when you’re ready to say “yes.”

 

Sue’s story is a powerful reminder that a meaningful career doesn’t require a perfect plan — just a willingness to stay curious, take chances, and follow where your passions lead. In a world that often demands certainty, Sue champions the courage to embrace change.

Whether she’s guiding students through career theory or encouraging them to try something new, Sue brings wisdom, warmth, and an unwavering belief in the power of possibility.