Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Nora Atkins ’14, M.S. ’16, academic advisor for University College and the newest member of the Administrative/Professional Council.
As an academic advisor for University College, what are your responsibilities?
I primarily assist first-year and continuing domestic and international students with transitions to the University, course selection, changing majors, academic probation, transferring to another institution, financial hardships, and other personal challenges that may arise. I am also the international student liaison for University College.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
I have served as an academic advisor for a little over two years, but I have been with the University for much longer. I went through Preview as a new student back in 2009. I also completed my graduate degree from Illinois State.
What do you love most about working at Illinois State?
I love my colleagues and the other people I get to work with across campus. Everyone is so genuine and so student focused! This is hard to replicate in other institutions.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
I am running around chasing my 2-year-old for sure! She keeps me super busy! Apart from that, you will find me tackling a task from my endless DIY home project list.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
The newly renovated Bone Student Center.
What is one thing people may not know about you?
I love to sing. When I was in middle school, I was part of an after school program that got to create an original opera from start to finish, and I was the lead role in that opera.
What are you most looking forward to in your first term on A/P Council?
I am really looking forward to working with all individuals from across campus and advocating for my fellow colleagues.
