The WSU School of Social Work recently hired a new success coach to work with its undergraduate population. Read below to learn more about Tom Romito and his new role.
 

ATA: Tell us a little bit about your educational background and how it relates to your current position.   

TR: I earned a BA in English from the University of Michigan and an MA in Political Science from Wayne State. For nearly thirty years, I utilized both degrees as a high school social studies teacher. That experience has helped me hone my skills working with a range of diverse students to figure out what individual students need and how to adjust my approach to help them succeed. I hope to be able to take my teaching experience and transfer it to the individualized coaching that I will be doing in the School of Social Work.
 

ATA: Can you please tell us a little bit about your student affairs background before joining WSU? 

TR: In addition to teaching high school, I have also served as a part-time faculty member at Oakland Community College and Oakland University. In that role, I have been able to observe what college students struggle with and what motivates them. While this will be my first official role in student affairs, my years of working with all levels of students – from high school kids to adults – have provided me with a solid background that will guide my involvement with the students at Wayne. 
 

ATA: When you are not advising, what are some things you like to do for fun?  

Outside of work, I enjoy listening to, playing, and recording music. Although I don’t consider myself “a runner,” I do enjoy running, as well as doing the daily New York Times crossword puzzles and reading. 
 

ATA: Any interesting or fun facts about yourself that you would like to share?  

Although I am not a professional musician, I once performed as the opening act for Brian Vander Ark of the Verve Pipe. Also, as I wrapped up my high school teaching career and have made the transition to higher education, my youngest child graduated from high school and is heading off to college. After years of high school concerts, games, events, conferences, and meetings, I might not have to step into a high school ever again!