“I joined Keiser University in Daytona Beach over 14 years ago and love my job.  There is nowhere else I would rather be.  Every day is different, from meeting a new student at orientation and taking their i.d. photo to hugging that same student as they walk across the stage at graduation.  The student services department is the support system for the students and we have the pleasure of assisting them throughout their academic journey.

 

A typical day as the student services director might start with a morning Chamber of Commerce board meeting followed by a visit to a potential graduate employer or two.  Upon arriving on campus I typically review resumes students submitted online the night before and work with them on revisions and possibly schedule a mock interview with them as well, preparing them for their job interviews.  The day could involve leading a workshop on civic responsibilities as part of our leadership distinction series, helping our students learn to embrace giving back to their community.  One of my favorite examples of students being civic-minded was last month when students arrived on campus at 6 a.m. on a Sunday to assist with directing parking for the Daytona 500 race.  They helped raise almost $1,900.00 for Cystic Fibrosis foundation and Relay For Life.

 

I believe what makes me successful in my role is my networking skills, which allow me to build and maintain relationships with employers and graduates.  Placement of our graduates is the main focus of my department and there is no better way to achieve this then interacting with potential employers!   I try to make the most of every opportunity by listening and finding out their needs.  They might need student volunteers or perhaps need to hire someone.  Even if I can not meet their needs at that time, perhaps I know someone who can.  It is all about building and maintaining relationships. It also allows me to match the right student with the right employer.

 

I am the proud mother of an amazing 25 year old young man.  He recently earned his Master’s degree in mathematics, is teaching mathematics full-time, and is also coaching baseball. He will be playing baseball this summer in a professional baseball league in California and living with a host family making a whopping $50 a week. Living the dream!

 

As a woman and also as a mother, I think I approach things with a positive attitude, always looking for the best in people and situations, even when things don’t go well.  Life is full of ups and downs, and as long as we continue to learn from the downs and focus on the ups, we will lead a happy and prosperous life. I always tell students that it isn’t always about how much money you make, it’s about enjoying your life and loving what you do.”