by Emily Reetz, College of Engineering

Kevin Papuga is the newest academic advisor with the Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business. He is a Wayne State alumnus who earned his bachelor's with a major in public relations from the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts. Kevin also had the honor of delivering the commencement address for his graduating class. He will be pursuing a master's concentrating in communication studies in preparation for a doctoral program, where he will concentrate on intergenerational communication.

Kevin is passionate about helping students overcome academic and personal challenges through the simple art of making conscious and intentional choices. He believes that life is a series of choices and consequences, and so if we can control our choices in the present, we can obtain our ideals in the future.

Before becoming a part of our advising community, Kevin worked in the department of Educational Outreach as a Transfer Student Ambassador; a position he describes as “pseudo advising.” It was here that Kevin grew to love the art of being present for students and trying his best to get them in front of the departments, advisors, and audiences they needed to be in conversation(s) with. Kevin recognizes that his character is what brought him to higher education, but also notes that he would not be where he is today if Michael Quattro and Dr. Ahmad Ezzeddine had not taken a special interest in him and the story he embodies. If you would like to know more about Kevin’s past, check out his commencement address!

When he is not advising, Kevin likes to play and watch soccer, snowboard, stay active outdoors, spend time with family, read, write and travel.

“Know where you have come from, anticipate where you are going, and be grateful for where you are.” -Kevin Papuga