Advisor of the month: March 2018

What do you enjoy about your role in advising?
I really enjoy the privilege of getting to building relationships with students and learning more about their goals and achievements. College is an exciting time in life where students are learning more about who they are and growing into what they want to become personally, professionally, and academically in the future. I am thankful for the mentors and advisors who positively shaped my college experience and really value the ability to pay it forward as an advisor today. I strive to be a positive and encouraging advisor for my students and emphasize that college is a supportive environment filled with many dynamic opportunities. It really does make my day to learn more about who my students are personally.

In what ways have you contributed to advising in your department/area?
In addition to meeting with my students daily, I contribute to how the Pamplin College of Business serves students on academic probation. I changed the format of the group probation meeting that happen each semester by making the content more engaging and bringing in speakers from the Cook Counseling Center and the Student Success Center. I also now invite students who were formerly on probation to come and share their experience and tips for getting back on good academic standing. It has been encouraging for current students on probation to hear from a peer who is proof that you can succeed if you work hard and utilize the resources on campus. I have also expanded the academic success resources available for Pamplin academic advisors to use for our weekly student meetings by compiling helpful documents from NACADA conferences and resources online.

What advice would you give to other professionals who want to a make a difference in the life of their students?
It is important to take the time to get to know your students and their goals and interests. Virginia Tech has uniquely strong campus community and the sooner students are able to connect with their interests and others, the easier it is for them to be engaged in the entire college experience. As advisors, becoming aware of the specific resources, clubs, and opportunities that exist on campus is the first step to connecting students with something that can bring them a sense of purpose and belonging. It is very rewarding to encourage students to explore their interests at a time when they are learning more about themselves and growing holistically.