June 12, 2007 issue

Near the end of my graduate program of study, I started working part-time as a program assistant at the EMU Livonia site. I really didn't intend on staying. I wasn't quite here three months when my supervisor approached me about becoming full-time in 2002. I accepted that offer.

In my job, I conduct cost analyses and gather other data that assist in tracking credit programs offered through Continuing Education. This helps CE with program planning and allows us to track whether or not we are providing the courses, through rollouts, necessary for students to complete their program of study.

One of the true benefits of working in Continuing Education has been the ability to remain active in various campus/community activities that, in many cases, allows me to provide support to students and staff. I started out as a note taker for the MLK Day celebration committee on campus as a graduate assistant and now I'm a member and a program presenter for this wonderful week of programming every January. I served as the staff adviser for the Black Student Organizational Alliance (BSOA). I also served as a two-term president of the EMU Women's Association.

But, the most impressive student support experience for me was when I volunteered as a Summer Incentive Program (SIP) mentor. I was asked for a seven-week commitment. It ended up evolving into a relationship that continues today. The student I worked with graduated from Eastern Michigan in 3 1/2 years. Now, she's in a graduate program on campus and working as a graduate assistant.

There are good people here, core people that have helped me and allowed me to be helpful to others. And that's why I enjoy working at EMU!

 

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