About

Learning Vision Statement (FS23)

My father died when I was 12.  He was a troubled man and he caused a lot of pain for those around him.  But in the years following his passing, he did inspire me to achieve and push myself out of my comfort zone.  I wanted to do what he couldn’t without the weaknesses and vices that he faced.  So most of the time when I’m looking at a difficult decision, I reach a conclusion by asking myself “what wouldn’t Rusty Petty have done” and then I do that.

One way I choose to exist that he didn’t was being an active member of my communities while trying to make positive impacts on those around me and those I love.

In many ways, I fell into working with students.  At MSU, I earned a bachelor’s of science degree in Agriculture & Natural Resources Communication because I was (and still am) interested in writing, graphic design, communication strategy, etc.  But my first job out of college ended up being with Chicago Public Schools and their Homeless Education Program.  In that position, I worked with the city’s 15,000 homeless students and their families to ensure they were receiving federally guaranteed services.  This was my first taste of student development and matching student needs, goals, and aspirations to resources. And in many ways, it was where I discovered my calling (if I may be so bold and cliché), learning that I wanted a future working with students.

In 2013, I began as the Academic Advisor for the Liberty Hyde Bailey Scholars Program at Michigan State University, my alma mater and one of my favorite places in the world.  I pinch myself frequently to make sure I’m not dreaming and that my job is ACTUALLY as awesome as helping our incredible students grow personally, professionally, and academically.

Now in my tenth year, I want to continue to grow and learn about my role as an advisor and undergraduate program coordinator.  I want to learn how we can decolonize the advising process.  I want to learn how to better help first generation college students.  I want to continue building relationships with campus partners to selfishly help my own students.  I want to be kick-ass and nothing like Rusty Petty.  I want to push my students and myself, while setting an example of a good, kind, supportive human.