3
What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your work as director of COSAM ’ s Student Services ?
It ’ s tough when you can ’ t help a student make it work . Students deal with so many issues that impact their college experience . The university has lots of resources to help , but sometimes the issues are just too big . In those cases , you have to hope they have learned some problem-solving skills , and they will rebound .
In the big picture , graduation , particularly for students who have struggled , is the most rewarding . That ’ s what it ’ s all about . In the everyday , I feel rewarded every time a student says , ‘ I feel better .’ I want to help them feel more in control of their education and more secure in their decisions . If they feel better after we meet , I ’ m accomplishing that .
4
What do you consider to be some of the most important factors that contribute to a student ’ s ability to achieve his or her educational goals ?
Learning to regulate their behavior is critical . College means lots more freedom for most students , so finding the discipline to go to class , study , exercise , eat , sleep , and have fun in the right amounts is the toughest part . If they can find that balance and stick to it , everything else will fall into place .
5
If you could give a student only one piece of advice , what would it be ?
Use your resources . Regardless of your major or GPA , the university is packed with people , programs , and opportunities that can help you learn and grow more than you ever imagined . Reach out , find those resources , take advantage . Your advisor is a great place to start .
College of Sciences and Mathematics 15