Kayana Jones

Kayana Jones is an Associate Director of Advising at Beyond Barnard, where she advises students and alumnae on a variety of career and professional development topics and helps supervise Beyond Barnard’s Peer Career Advisors. She is passionate about helping students and alumni navigate periods of transition, explore their interests, and discover meaningful paths that align with their values, strengths, and aspirations. Kayana earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The Ohio State University in 2024 and her Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs from the same institution in 2026. She spent the past six years living in Columbus, Ohio and considers it an important part of her journey, while also calling Bayonne, New Jersey home after her family relocated there several years ago. Before joining Beyond Barnard in the summer of 2026, she completed her graduate studies while working as a Graduate Assistant with Buckeye Careers and Buckeye Commons at The Ohio State University, where she advised students and supported their academic, professional, and personal development.

What was your first job?

My first job was working as a bookseller at Books-a-Million!

How does your identity inform your work/interests/passions?

My identity is shaped by the communities and experiences that have supported me throughout my educational and professional journey. Having lived in both rural and urban communities, I have seen how access to opportunities, mentorship, and support can shape a person’s path. My experiences navigating higher education and major life transitions have deepened my commitment to helping students explore their identities, discover their passions, and build confidence in pursuing their goals.