April 1, 2008 issue
Eastern Michigan seems to run in my family. My mom, Daneen Zureich, is retired now, but used to work in University Marketing; and my sister, Amy Novak, works in financial aid. When I came to work here 18 years ago, I was very interested in getting my degree. Now, I've not only earned my degree, but my two children have graduated from EMU as well. Something about the university just drew us all.
I work in admissions and, for the past 10 years, I've overseen the processing of all of the applications that come in to the university — freshmen, transfers, graduate students, international students — everyone but continuing education. I like being able to help people reach their goals, both in their existing careers and in building careers for themselves.
I like the diversity at EMU. I talk and e-mail with people from all over the world, and it just enriches my life. You learn so much about other people and the places they come from. Not only in the U.S., but everywhere.
I have a great staff; I'm really proud of them. They're so willing to work overtime, especially during the crunch seasons. They regularly go over and beyond my expectations. It's also really rewarding to see students — some who've never had anybody in their family go to college — be admitted and graduate. A couple of our own student employees have come back as full-time employees. We love to watch them grow up.
