Advisor of the month: May 2021
Julie Burger, May 2021, Advisor of the Month, Advising Matters at Virginia Tech.
Julie Burger
College of Natural Resources and Environment
What do you enjoy about your role in advising?
As an advisor, I love leading the pep rally. Even in times as strained and unprecedented as the COVID-19 pandemic, I want my students to be excited about learning, excited about being in college, excited about exploring possibilities. It's not as easy to do any of those things right now, but all the more reason to be in their corner cheering them on.
In what ways have you contributed to advising in your department/area?
I am involved in the creation of new majors in my Department. Based on feedback from students, employers and faculty we are formulating three new majors. I am contributing my experience and knowledge of the governance process, course requirements and student interest.
What advice would you give to other professionals who want to a make a difference in the life of their students?
I would encourage other professionals to allow themselves to make a difference. Be open to being the catalyst in a student's life. Teach the class that encourages a student to fall in love with a new area, advise a student to take a course outside their comfort zone, listen and learn about the student's experience and believe them.