When you meet with students, what's most important to you?

When I meet with students, the most important thing to me is building rapport even in an advising meeting that would appear "transactional." I strive to listen attentively, provide accurate information, and be genuine with students. My hope is that students feel comfortable and valued so that they know they are welcome to ask any question and come back to see me or anyone in our office.

What's an opportunity you took in college that you're glad you didn't miss? 

I took a challenging course for seniors in my major my sophomore year because a friend was taking it. I went to office hours to talk to the instructor about the application of what was being taught in class. The faculty later offered me a TA position for the course because I was able to share feedback about what was being taught. I was a TA for that class the next two years. The experience sparked my interest in higher education and working with students.

What's one challenge you experienced in college, and what advice would you give a student facing a similar one now?

I earned a D grade on my first Polisci exam in the first semester in college. I was a top student in high school. I started to question my confidence in being a college student (sound familiar - imposter syndrome). Someone told me to go to office hours. I remember waiting in the hallway for my meeting with the professor not knowing what to ask, feeling kind of stupid, and sick to my stomach. The professor talked about different ways to study and encouraged me to turn in a paper ahead of time for feedback. I learned that they really wanted to support me in succeeding. My advice: Go to office hours in the first month of every class even if you really do not have any questions. Just introduce yourself and share what you like about the course. (I ended up with a B grade in the class.)

Where do you call home? What are some fun facts that others may not know about your hometown?

I grew up in Hanover, PA. It is titled the "Snack Food Capital of the World." Hanover is home to Utz Potato Chips, Snyders Pretzels, and Revonah Pretzels. My family would go to the factory of Utz and get a 1lb tin of plain and bbq potato chips. You would then return the tin to get it filled the next week. School trips were often to these factories. I love potato chips!