The WSU College of Theatre and Dance recently welcomed its newest advisor, Jess Carlin, to their team. Learn more about Jess below!
ATA: Tell us a little bit about your educational background and how it relates to your current position.
JC: I am a graduate of WSU. I received my BA in Secondary Education with a focus on English in 2009. I then went on to Madonna University for my Masters in Literacy. Throughout my 15-year career in education, student support and connections have been my major focus.
ATA: Can you please tell us a little bit about your student affairs background before joining WSU?
JC: While in the classroom, I worked mostly with Juniors and Seniors as they were preparing for the next steps after high school. I found that I really enjoyed the process of helping them find their passions, create pathways, investigate programs, and hunt for scholarships. I was often the "go to" teacher if you need a life-chat, a hug, a smile, or some general zaniness. Since I was in the classroom when the counselors came to have those post-secondary info sessions, I found I absorbed the knowledge and was able to relay the information in manageable chunks. I also used my experiences as a first-generation college student to support others with the information I gained going through the process.
ATA: When you are not advising, what are some things you like to do for fun?
JC: I am a theater and dance gal through and through. Before coming to WSU, I ran the theater program at Belleville High School. I am happy to be a part of all productions whether I am directing, choreographing, painting sets, mending costumes, curling hair, or just being a morale officer, I love it all! I love going on adventures with my husband and son. I also love being outdoors either biking, swimming, or working in my yard. I also read A LOT (come chat books with me anytime) and I have recently taught myself to crochet.
ATA: Any interesting or fun facts about yourself that you would like to share?
JC: I am a wealth of random knowledge and movie quotes (usually obscure ones). I used to ride a unicycle and took aerial classes. There is also a very strong chance that you will find me dancing around to the music inside my head.