ADPR Advisors’ “Superhuman” Qualities Aid in Student Success
Through tremendous amounts of time spent with students, ADPR academic advisors work to prepare and educate the future generation
By: Abby Sobutka
Throughout one’s college career, limitless time is spent trying to figure out the best path forward and the best roads to take to get there. Lead ADPR advisor at Michigan State University, Jennifer Chesney, works with students daily to ensure future success. Through her work with other advisors and the Compassion Advocates for Retention and Student Success (CARSS) unit, she helps ease student stress and anxiety.
Chesney, along with advertising management advisor, Nicole Acker, got their start in advising while coming into the role of resident assistants on their universities’ campuses. Chesney went on to become a full-time residence hall director, leading her to continuing to work on campus in other areas helping students, like advising. Acker says she had a similar experience working with students and knew she had to make the transition to academics.
Chesney and Acker both say that students are the source of their inspiration. They recognize the struggle students go through during their academics and how much they always have going on.
“This is a unique time in life and students showcase every day how to be resilient in their own way,” said Chesney.
Advisors resemble superhero characteristics by working with up to 40 students daily through either express advising or their regularly scheduled appointments. They work with students from class scheduling all the way to filling out grief absence forms. Advisors and members of the CARSS team work with faculty to best aid students during their time at MSU. CARSS provides care and compassion to students that are struggling and as coordinator of CARSS, Chesney works in case management to delegate support. Acker is also a member of the CARRS unit.
“With Michigan State being so large, I want to make sure that the bridges are gapped, and students can feel like they have someone specific to go to if they need anything,” said Acker.
Despite their demanding roles, Chesney and Acker say they are grateful for the opportunity to work with students at this crucial point in their lives. From the endless time they have spent with students, they encourage using all the resources MSU provides and not being fearful of scheduling a CAS academic advising appointment to help guide your future.
“College is a unique time that can be very transformative for students; it’s an honor to be even a small part of that journey,” said Chesney.