Advisor of the month: November 2025

Which National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) Core Value resonates with you the most in your position as an advisor and why?

The NACADA core value that resonates most with me is respect. I genuinely love building relationships with my students by valuing their unique perspectives and maintaining a student-centered approach. Respect shows up in the way I listen deeply and recognize that each student brings something meaningful to our conversations. My favorite part of advising is building trust so students feel comfortable sharing struggles, dreams, and uncertainties. By respecting their voice while offering guidance, I help them discover their own answers and grow more confident in their choices. This respect-driven approach allows me to connect them with resources that fit their needs and support them through both challenges and successes. Whether I’m celebrating achievements or helping them navigate obstacles, I’m invested in empowering students to shape their own Virginia Tech story.

 What advice would you give to other professionals who want to make a difference in the lives of their students?

Get to know your students as people, not just learners, and let them know you too. Approach every interaction with empathy and care for who they are as individuals. Most importantly, listen to truly understand rather than simply to respond. Pay attention to what’s said and unsaid. I once noticed a quiet student seemed off; gentle questions opened the door for them to share struggles, leading to real support. Often, the greatest impact comes from creating safe spaces where students feel heard.