Aug. 12, 2008 issue
After my positive undergraduate experience
at Eastern Michigan University, I always kept my eyes open
for job opportunities at the University. After a couple
of professors mentored me and assisted me during my college
career, I decided I wanted to do the same for other students.
After I graduated from EMU in 1971 with a bachelor's degree
in sociology, I worked for 14 years before finding an opening here.
I started in the financial aid office 23 years ago, anticipating on being
here for only five years. My experiences with the students
has made me stay. I get excited, along with them, when
that light comes on in their heads and they realize they
can achieve their goals.
After five years as a financial aid counselor, I moved to admissions.
I visited more than 100 high schools to recruit students. I had so much
fun talking with the students and getting them excited about college,
excited about Eastern. I would share stories about EMU and relate to the
students. I wanted them to understand the possibilities.
I have been the assistant director, transfer admissions, for the past
six years. I have built relationships with all of the counselors
from the community colleges in Michigan and they have become
my friends. These counselors visit the University each
year. They love coming here and learning about Eastern.
It is rewarding knowing that, together, we can create a
seamless transition for a student from the community college
to the University, and help a student achieve their dreams.
In my current position, I visit community colleges; meet with students
to discuss admission; interview and review applications;
assist students in understanding how their credits
will transfer and coordinate various transfer programs.
The most important part of my job is being able to put
a person's goals into perspective and help them realize
that their dream is not far away. Guiding students and
showing them they are not alone during the admission process
is a privilege. — Contributed by Krystin Jarrell
