Meet ystark! YP: Kayla Remark

Name

Kayla Remark

Age

30

Occupation/Title/Place of work

Mortgage Loan Consultant

Why are you interested in Stark County’s Young Professionals initiative?

It paves the way for young professionals to let everyone know what they do. It’s also great for making connections and expand their resources. Young professionals have already accomplished a lot and still have so much more opportunity to learn and grow.

What would you share to encourage other people to join?

I feel like my generation is often intimidated by face to face interaction in a professional setting. This is a great way to break down barriers and learn that we are all just people and everyone brings something different to the table.

Did you grow up in Stark? If so, where? If not, where did you move from and why?

Yes, I grew up in Canton. I went to Heritage Christian, and graduated from McKinley where I played volleyball and softball. I went on to study business management at Kent State, finishing my hours at the Stark Campus.

Why do you stay in Stark County, from both a personal and professional point of view?

There is so much opportunity here. The sense of community has always made me proud to call it home. There’s always something to do all year long.

What do you like MOST about Stark County?

I love the diversity. You can meet people from different backgrounds, and experiences, and it’s big area but at the same time I could have a conversation with a complete stranger and find a commonality within minutes.

What would you change about Stark County if you could?

I would increase people’s financial literacy and money management skills, to significantly boost the economy. I see a lot of the same reoccurring problems my clients are facing when I work with them to obtain a mortgage.

What do you see as valuable opportunities for YPs in Stark County when it comes to career opportunities, cultural access, leadership or community involvement opportunities?

I see a lot of opportunity for entrepreneurs. I also think that there’s a great support system among the experienced professionals that want to help young professionals succeed. If you have drive and great ideas, the sky is the limit.

What would attract more YPs to Stark County?

I have a young family and work with families daily who want to purchase a home. If I could change anything it would probably be to better highlight our excellent schools, the outstanding staff the available programs.

What do you do in the evenings or on the weekends for fun in Stark County or NE Ohio?

My husband and I enjoy First Fridays, we love going to the music festivals downtown. Our regular coffee spot is Tremont in downtown Massillon. We love talking the kids to Cultured Coffee and waffles for dessert and then ice skating downtown in the winter. And we also play recreational volleyball. My husband and I coach little league baseball and we volunteer with elementary children at River Tree Church Massillon.

Could you see yourself spending your lifetime in Stark County and if not, what would cause you to leave?

Yes absolutely. I’m from McKinley, and my husband went to Massillon. Tradition runs deep in both communities. I have a lot pride being part of both now and I truly value being able to pass down traditions to my kids like the HOF parade and Light Up Downtown, just like my parents did with me.