Oct. 17, 2006 issue
I came to Eastern as a temp, intending to stay a short while to earn
some extra money for my family. My first job was in registration. Though
registration was computerized, students couldn't do it themselves. They
had to stand in line and wait for one of us. It had been 16 years since
I last worked in an office and I had never touched a computer before.
By the end of my first day, I was registering students. Fifteen years
later, I'm still here and now my daughter works and goes to school here
as well.
I've changed departments a few times, my first permanent job being in
financial aid. From there, I moved to student accounting,
and, finally, to my current position in the office of the vice president
for student affairs. I love all the people I've worked with. We're like
a family here. At any time, I can go back to the departments I used to
work and feel welcome. My connections across campus help me do my job.
When students call here with a problem, I know who to call to help them
solve it.
One reason why I love working at Eastern is the involvement in organizations
across campus and the community. I've helped with Family Day, the United
Way Day of Caring, Office Professional's Day, Customer Action Team, AQIP,
Gold Medallion Awards and am active in the clerical/secretarial union.
I was honored to receive a Gold Medallion Award and, even more so, when
I was asked to emcee at the ceremony. I've also been active in community
groups, such as Relay for Life and Meals on Wheels, that I wouldn't have
been if I hadn't worked at Eastern.
Another of my campus roles that I really enjoy is that of the secretary
for the student leader group. They are great students and so much fun
to work with. I try to help make their job as presidents of their organizations
easier. I enjoy working with the student office staff and want
them to learn that good customer service is important in whatever job
they choose.
My job is great because of the people I work with and the opportunities
I've had to learn, grow and be creative in my job. I can't
think of any place I would rather be!
