Student Employee of the Month
GVSU Student Employment Office is proud to recognize the amazing efforts of our student employees across campus. We believe that Grand Valley could not function without their incredible hard work and dedication. By highlighting a Student Employee of the Month, our goal is to recognize the student employees who go above and beyond in their area(s) of employment. These students have been nominated by a professional staff member within their hiring department and selected by a committee within the Student Employment Office. This program was initiated in 2021 and will honor one student employee per month.
If you would like to nominate a student employee who works in your department, please complete the form at the following link.
DECEMBER 2024 - BEN BURROUGHS
This month we are excited to celebrate Ben Burroughs as our Student Employee of the Month! Ben is a student employee in the Geology department and is currently a senior studying Biology and Chemistry. Ben says, "I love being able to work alongside the faculty to help them accomplish their instructional goals. Not only do I get an insight into what goes on in my professors brains when they teach, but I also get a chance to learn 1 on 1 from them as well. Working has allowed me to interact with everyone, both professors and students, and that sense of community has led to an incredibly engaging experience." When we asked Ben if he had any advice for students considering working on campus, he said, "Talk to your professors and express your interest! They are all here to help you succeed, and they are happy to connect interested students with the right people."
"I am the new Lab Supervisor for Geology and from my first day here Ben has been incredibly helpful to me and a critical asset to the Geology Department. Ben is a student employee for the department, and has tasks ranging from inventorying our vast collections to prepping lab materials for labs to driving on field trips and more. He is always willing to take on any work thrown his way by myself or faculty in the department, without complaint. He is an independent worker, a critical thinker, and creative problem solver. Most importantly, Ben is a friendly and kind person. In addition to being a student employee, Ben also TAs for the department and is an active member of the GVSU Geology Club and other professional geology organizations." - Brittany Ward (Supervisor)
NOVEMBER 2024 - LEXIE BOWEN
Lexie Bowen has been awarded Student Employee of the Month for the month of November! Lexie is a senior at GVSU studying Psychology and plans to graduate in 2025. Lexie works in the Office of Certification and Accreditation and when we asked what she liked most about her job, she said, "The aspect I like most about my job is the people I am able to interact with, as well as having the opportunity to read or work on schoolwork in the office when it’s slower. My experience working as a student employee here at GVSU has been wonderful. I enjoy conversing with the faculty and students in the office and my job has enhanced my adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving skills. I have not worked in an office setting before my current job, but everyone has been very kind and supportive, so I have learned a lot! My supervisors also let me know that school comes first, so they are flexible with our work hours and are understanding. Overall, it has been really beneficial." Lexie's advice for students looking for a job on campus is to "take the time to jot down your class schedule and any other commitments before applying for jobs. This will help you understand your availability and communicate it in your applications, making it easier for the employers."
"I started working in the Office of Certification and Accreditation last month and Lexie is a student worker under my supervision. She is amazing. Her professionalism is displayed every time the elevator door opens on DeVos Center's 4th floor as her smile and kind hello greet all. I have learned so much from Lexie about the OCA. I hired 3 new student workers this week and I gave Lexie the task of training them. This student has skills! I am proud to be her supervisor and will be sad when she graduates in the spring. If Lexie is an example of a standard GVSU student, well, I am greatly impressed." - Jane Auchter (Supervisor)
OCTOBER 2024 - AISHA JONES
Our Student Employee of the Month for October is Aisha Jones! Aisha is a senior at GVSU studying Film in Video Production. In addition to studying on campus, Aisha also works as a student employee in the Office of Student Life. When we asked Aisha what she likes most about her job, she said, "I love being able to plan and execute an array of fun events for students to enjoy and being able to see my hard work pay off." We also asked Aisha how her job has impacted her experience at GVSU. She said, "I have met so many amazing people and made connections for things that will help me in the future regarding my career. There are so many people who work in the office that I can count on for help and support." Finally, Aisha's advice for students looking for a job on campus is, "Don't be afraid to ask someone. You never know who they are and what connections they might have. Talking to someone opens the doors to so many opportunities that you didn't even know were possible." Congratulations Aisha!
"I love supervising Ash. She's remarkably positive and creative and brings such a fun energy to her work. She is so reliable, and trustworthy. She keeps our team grounded and reminds us of the importance of the work that we're doing. She's grown so much in her work, and I am so thankful that she is on our event planning team!" - Katie Garrett (Supervisor)
SEPTEMBER 2024 - CATHERINE DENSHAM
For the month of September we are honoring Catherine Densham as our Student Employee of the Month! Cate is a sophomore at GVSU studying Geology and Chemistry. Cate currently works in the Steelcase Library and the Frey Learning Commons. When we asked Cate what she enjoys most about working as a student employee at GVSU, specifically on the downtown campus, she said, "I love that it gets me out of Allendale! It can be overwhelming to live, study, and do classes all in the same place so having the opportunity to spend time in Grand Rapids is great. I especially like that I get to see/interact with members of the community beyond GVSU, it makes the world feel so much bigger! I also see a lot of the behind-the-scenes of GVSU. Knowing the processes that go down from department to department and person to person clears up a lot of the mystery surrounding the university. It's good to know why things are happening the way they are and it helps me to stay informed on the goings on around here!" Cate also said, "My job has left a good impact on my time at GVSU. I look forward to going to work every time and talking with the students and staff always brightens up my day." Finally, Cate's advice to current and potential student employees is "Manage your time! Good mental health is necessary for a well-rounded education so try not to overwork yourself and leave enough time every week for fun!" Thank you Cate!
"Cate is wonderful. She is very self-motivated and independent and takes initiative to come up with new social media ideas for the Frey location (Brutus the Skeleton!) and is always the first to volunteer to help with special projects. Recently the library asked for a list of Library Master Plans to get example on how to frame our own, I asked the students to work on this and Cate went above and beyond, as usual! I think that speaks very well to her work ethic, curiosity, and commitment to learning. She does everything with a smile and always makes time for students with questions regardless of her workload. She truly represents the values of the library as a front line student worker. Her other supervisor, Tara Baker, says, "She is amazing, self motivated, self starter, who does above and beyond daily." I wanted to recognize her work and how much we appreciate her and everything she does!" - Troy Lazenby (Supervisor)
AUGUST 2024 - JOHN MOSES BOLLARAPU
During August, we are celebrating John Moses Bollarapu as our Student Employee of the Month! John Moses is currently in a two-year master's course in Data Science and Analytics and is currently working in the Brook's College Dean's Office. When we asked him more about his job on campus, John Moses said, "I like the part of my job where I interact with different faculty and employees at Brooks College. My job made me feel more welcome and at home at GVSU." His advice for student searching for a job on campus is to "search for jobs in all areas thoroughly and apply for the best-fitting roles accordingly." Congratulations John Moses!
"John Moses is an international student from India working toward his Master of Science Degree in Data Science and Analytics. John had not worked in an office position prior to applying for this position and wanted to gain experience that would help him with his future career. He is dependable and helpful. He is a good human being who all of us enjoy having in the office. As is often the case, while he came here to learn he may have taught us more." - Lynnette Keen (Supervisor)
JULY 2024 - KAUSHIK ARRAMSHETTI
Kaushik Arramshetti has been awarded Student Employee of the Month for the month of July! Kaushik is entering his second year as a masters student studying Health Administration and works as a library assistant. Kaushik says, "What I like most about my job is the opportunity to help fellow students find the resources they need, the calm and quiet environment that makes it easy to focus, and the chance to learn about a wide variety of topics through the materials I handle. Additionally, I appreciate the flexible hours that accommodate my academic schedule and the valuable work experience that enhances my organizational and customer service skills." Kaushik also says, "My job as a student library assistant has significantly enhanced my university experience by improving my time management skills and providing a steady income. It has helped me build a network with faculty, staff, and fellow students, making me feel more connected to the campus community. The role has also deepened my research skills and broadened my knowledge across various subjects, contributing positively to my academic performance. Overall, this job has made my university life more enriching and well-rounded." Finally, when we asked Kaushik if he had any advice for potential student employees he said, "Start early, checking Workday regularly and attending job fairs. Prepare your resume and write tailored cover letters. Apply broadly and utilize campus resources like the Career Center. Network with professors and peers, showing flexibility in job types. Be professional, follow up after interviews, and manage your time to balance work and academics. Develop transferable skills, ensure eligibility for positions, and stay persistent despite rejections."
"Kaushik has been with the library for 9 months now working on the downtown campus library service desks. Recently, the library has been pushing for a larger social media presence to highlight the library's services to students and faculty. Kaushik has risen to the challenge of brainstorming ideas for the library's social media, with a specific focus on the downtown libraries, Steelcase and Frey. He is also extremely professional in both working with other students and library staff. Quick to adapt to new procedures and receptive to feedback, Kaushik isn't afraid to seek assistance when needed - a trait not always found in everyone. Moreover, he proactively ensures that students' needs are promptly addressed at the service desk, consistently going above and beyond. Additionally, his willingness to pick up extra shifts demonstrates his dedication and flexibility. We are looking forward to his continued growth and contributions in the future." - Troy Lazenby (Supervisor)
JUNE 2024 - ANTHONY CLARK
For the month of June we are excited to highlight Anthony Clark as our Student Employee of the Month! Anthony will be entering his junior year at GVSU and is studying Secondary Education. When we asked him what he likes most about his position on campus, he said, "The thing I love most about Steelcase Library is that I immediately felt part of a team that you can always rely on. With the Steelcase Library also containing the Curriculum Materials Library, I felt as though I was getting the most out of a campus job while relating it to my major. In turn, it felt like I was gaining knowledge that I can apply for my own future." Anthony's advice for students who may be wanting to work on campus is to "check Workday, you never know when there might be a new posting that interests you." Thank you Anthony!
"Anthony is one of our newest employees at the library downtown and he has been very enthusiastic about being involved with the library outside of his basic job functions. He is willing to pick up additional hours when needed and volunteers to help with various projects we have in motion here at the Steelcase Library. We have also been able to connect his major with some of these tasks to lean into the experiential learning aspect of student employment. He is great with the student users and always helps each person to the best of his ability and is not afraid to ask clarifying questions or ask for help when needed." - Troy Lazenby (Supervisor)
MAY 2024 - RASHMITA VAGGU
Congratulations to Rashmita Vaggu for being awarded our Student Employee of the Month placement for the month of May! Rashmita is a Masters student at GVSU studying Data Science and Analytics and is currently working with the University Libraries Department. When we asked Rashmita what her favorite part of working on campus is, she said, "Learning! Being a curious student assistant, I am always ready to learn something new and how things work at the library. Also, I am lucky to have my supervisors and manager to rely on when I need help or guidance in a new task." When we asked how her job has impacted her time at GVSU, Rashmita said, "Being an international student at GVSU, it was a little intimidating at the beginning. There is a huge cultural difference and language difference. Working at the Steelcase Library brought me close to the culture where I was able to meet people from different backgrounds. It also helped me improve my communication skills, organizational and other soft skills which will be essential for me in my future experiences at GVSU." Finally, Rashmita's advice for potential student employees is to "start by updating their resumes and taking the initiative to apply for positions. Regardless of whether the job aligns with their major, every role, whether it be in dining services or within a department, offers valuable skill-building experiences. Additionally, working on campus fosters a sense of belonging and contribution to the growth of GVSU, enhancing the student experience. Furthermore, students should consider leveraging resources such as career fairs, job boards, and campus employment offices to explore diverse job options and maximize their chances of securing a position. Demonstrating reliability, adaptability, and a willingness to learn can lead to opportunities for advancement and skill development. By actively seeking feedback and proactively seeking out additional responsibilities, students can maximize the personal and professional benefits of their on-campus employment experience." Thank you Rashmita!
"Rashmita always comes to work ready for the day and ready to face any challenge that comes her way. She is always looking for ways to help out around the library from decorating book displays to helping me with statistics projects. She asks questions when she doesn't know the answer and always goes the extra mile with the students that come to the service desk to ask for help. She is so amazing and I wanted to nominate her this month because she deserves the recognition for her work and how much we appreciate her." - Troy Lazenby (Supervisor)
APRIL 2024 - JOSEPH SHOTTS
For the month of April we are honoring Joseph Shotts as our Student Employee of the Month! Joseph is a sophomore at GVSU studying Computer Engineering. When asked what he likes most about his job, Joseph said, "The thing I like most about my job is my amazing coworkers and connections I make with the people coming into the showcase." We also asked Joseph if he has any words of wisdom for students considering on-campus employment. Joseph said, "While on-campus jobs may not always provide as much financial incentive, they find ways to fit your schedule and let you prioritize school when you need to. My job has provided me an opportunity to build new skills that I'm going to be able to take into the workforce and to provide another place for me to connect at GVSU."
"Joey has been co-leading our team since May 2023 and along with his efforts building and creating a lot of the technology he has overseen the expansion of our team. He's been self starting in designing and creating projects that support our mission in the Technology Showcase, specifically around student engagement. He also created and leads a digital skills workshop around TinkerCAD - an online 3D modeling program that is geared toward developing 3-D objects for 3-D printing. Something I have appreciated and cherished on our team is our cohesion and willingness to support each other. Through his effort sharing about design thinking with our team, educational technology, and always providing and sharing his warmth and knowledge, Joey has been a mentor to other students, a catalyst for growth within our team, and has empowered his student colleagues to lead with their strengths. He's made an effort to bring our team together to ensure clarity, connection, and ownership of our space from the entire team through discussion and an ideation processes to create student lead projects that support our mission. I continue to be impressed by Joey, the work that he does, and compassion he has for our team. I genuinely feel without his presence we not would be in as successful of a position that we are in. He has been a difference maker." - Hunter Bridwell (Supervisor)
MARCH 2024 - NICHOLE ROACH
Our Student Employee of the Month for March is Nichole Roach! Nichole is a Junior at GVSU studying Writing and working within CLAS Advising. When asked what she likes most about her job, Nichole said, "What I really love most about my job is the people I work with. They are kind, caring, and great to be around. The advisors and my supervisors are just such fantastic people that I am excited to work with and learn from every day that I walk into the office. Through working at CLAS Advising, I have also been able to learn more about the different resources available for students to use." Nichole's words of wisdom for students who are thinking about working on campus are, "When looking for your first job in college it can be quite overwhelming because you may not know where to start or where to look. Working on campus, especially during the academic year, is really helpful because the work environment is a place filled with people who understand the restraints of a college student schedule. It's a lot easier to fit in some shifts throughout the week in between your classes instead of having to drive or take the bus. Not only is it more convenient, and a more understanding environment: Working with faculty or any GVSU departments can help you find more opportunities that you might have not known about before." Thank you Nichole and congratulations!
"Nichole has been with CLAS Advising for almost a year now and has gone above and beyond in providing excellent service to everyone that engages with our office. Nichole ensures that each student that asks for help gets her undivided attention, as she is dedicated to finding solutions to each and every issue a student might come in with. She is empathetic, kind, approachable, professional, and eager. We are so incredibly lucky to have a student worker like Nichole - she provides GVSU students with outstanding service here in CLAS Advising and is a pleasure to work with. Nichole deserves this recognition so much!" - Emma Plummer (Supervisor)
FEBRUARY 2024 - ESTHER BELLI
We are very excited to announce that our Student Employee of the Month for February is Esther Belli! Esther works in Library Access Support Services and is a senior at GVSU studying English Secondary Education. We asked Esther what she likes most about her job and she said, "I love so many things about my job. The different kinds of people I have the opportunity to talk to on a daily basis while working at the service desk really enriches my experience as a student. I also really appreciate the way that I'm given an opportunity to express my creativity through projects and collaborations with other students. Finally, the community that we have at the library is unmatched. Saying we're "one big family" is so cliché but I really do resonate with that phrase as I think of the staff at the library as my second family." When we asked her how her job has impacted her experience at GVSU, Esther said, "I've learned so many things about GVSU through the library. It's helped me in my academic life as I've gotten very familiar with the resources available to me at the library. Additionally, as I mentioned before, I've met some of the most amazing people through this job, some of whom I truly cannot picture my life without. My experience at GVSU has been a very positive one and I owe a lot of my thanks and success to my supervisor and coworkers for their role in that." Finally, Esther's advice for potential student employees is to "Put yourself out there! Don't be afraid to apply, don't hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and try new things, even if you don't think you'll be particularly good at them. There are a lot of on-campus jobs that I know you'll love. Don't give up if you feel like you're stuck somewhere you don't feel is best for you. Also, don't overwork yourself or feel pressure to put your work life before your academic life. Finding a healthy balance between being a student and being an employee can be really challenging but it can also be incredibly rewarding once you do find it." Thank you Esther!
"Esther has worked with the library for over 2 years and is now one of our Lead User Experience Students. During her time here she has been such an important colleague and wonderful friend to everyone. She regularly goes above and beyond to help users get what they need and is always asking the right questions to improve the library and our services. On top of being an excellent employee, Esther is also a bright light that always makes your day a little better. Whether it's complimenting your outfit or taking time out of her day to decorate the desk, she always finds a way to put a smile on your face and she deserves to know how appreciated and cared for she truly is." - Damian Martinez (Supervisor)
JANUARY 2024 - AGGREY NGAO
Our very first Student Employee of the Month in 2024 is Aggrey Ngao! Aggrey is in his final year of studies majoring in Public Health. When we asked what Aggrey liked most about his job, he said, "As a student, I understand the importance of having access to the right resources for academic success. That's why I take pleasure in helping my peers discover the best resources available at the library. Whether it's finding the perfect book or locating a relevant journal article, I'm always happy to guide fellow students toward the information they need to achieve their goals." We also asked Aggrey how his job has impacted his experience at GVSU. Aggrey said, "As I worked at the library, I had the privilege of engaging with staff and students. The library supervisors were incredibly supportive and provided me with invaluable guidance throughout. My bond with the GVSU community has significantly strengthened. The experiences I have shared with everyone have been valuable, and I feel a deeper connection to the community because of it." Aggrey's words of wisdom for students wanting to work on campus is that "working on campus can be an invaluable experience. Not only will you learn from experienced staff members, but you'll also be able to collaborate and grow alongside your peers."
"Aggrey is dedicated, hard working, dependable, pleasant with all the patrons and really engages well with the international students. He has been a true asset to the library during his time here." - Troy Lazenby (supervisor)
DECEMBER 2023 - ELISE VANOORT
For the month of December, we are highlighting Elise VanOort as our Student Employee of the Month! Elise is in her 4th year at GVSU and is studying criminal justice while working with the University Libraries Access Services department. When we asked what she likes most about her job, Elise said, "I get to work in a calm and peaceful environment, which offers a nice break from my classes. By providing me with a calm work environment, my job has allowed me to get a chance to de-stress during my years at GV. Whenever my classes feel like a bit too much, I come to work and get to be surrounded by good people and a safe space." When we asked Elise about advice she would give to potential student employees, she said, "While I of course would point you in the direction of the MIP library, I would have to say to look for something that could be challenging without overwhelming you. Something that I value in my current job is the life experience that it has given me and the growth that it has inspired. That said, trying something that you have not done before can prove to be a good challenge. However, you also don't want to aim for something that will only bring more stress to your college experience. In any case, you can always try things out and see what your preferences are, so don't sweat it!"
"Elise started as one of my quietest student colleagues back in 2020, but over time has become one of my strongest leaders. As one of my lead student colleagues, Elise plays a major role assisting with the training of new hires, the creation of student colleague projects, and the maintenance of our Library's inventory binder for the Automated Storage & Retrieval System. I also constantly refer to her as my Super Searcher, as she has been able to assist with the discovery of countless missing/misplaced library items during her time on my team. The Library is tremendously lucky to have her meticulous investigative and problem solving skills as a part of our Access Services Team!" - Shelby Barlow (Supervisor)
NOVEMBER 2023 - JAIYANA TYLER
During November we are highlighting Jaiyana Taylor as our Student Employee of the Month! Jaiyana is currently a junior at GVSU studying General Business and working in the School of Communications. When asked what she loves most about her job, Jaiyana said, "What I love most about my job is the atmosphere, I get to meet so many new people! It's also fun seeing how things flow in the departments." Jaiyana went on to say, "My job has impacted my experience at Grand Valley significantly and in the most efficacious ways. I met amazing people along the way and got to know who they were as individuals and I thought that was amazing. I would say working for Grand Valley has helped me grow and manage my life confidently and it hasn't just helped me become confident at work, but whether that's in classrooms, or outside doing daily activities I can now do things without letting fear take control." Jaiyana's advice for students searching for employment on campus is "to be positive! I say that because everybody battles life differently, so coming into work with a positive attitude could make someone's day by just being kind to them."
"Jaiyana is an enthusiastic person who is funny, industrious, and one who wants to serve the public by resolving their concerns with her warm, friendly, and approachable personality. When having a conversation, Jaiyana will take time to ask how that person is doing by really listening and engaging with them. Her ready smile spreads joy to those she encounters all over campus. With her high work ethic and great people skills, she is quick to lend a hand to our faculty and staff members who need assistance with ongoing projects or have a last-minute emergency. Working on other projects within the school has given Jaiyana the ability to learn more of what the university does operationally and what professors need for teaching and research. This has enabled her to focus upon what areas of growth she has an interest in as she completes her undergraduate studies. The School's Director, Richard Besel, recently mentioned that Jaiyana has been an outstanding student employee in the office for the School of Communications. She models what it means to be dependable and friendly in an office environment. The School of Communications appreciates her so much and we want others to know how Jaiyana Tyler embodies the best of the Laker spirit. Jaiyana, you are an amazing person and genuinely appreciated!" - Pam De Windt (Supervisor)
OCTOBER 2023 - ROSIE CALDWELL
Our Student Employee of the Month for October is Rosie Caldwell! Rosie is a sophomore at GVSU studying Marketing while working in University Development. When asked what Rosie likes most about her job she said, "I work for gift processing for University Development and I really love how detail oriented my job is. Having a job that is accuracy based I can better master my skills of organization, precision, and quality. Also, due to the importance of my job, it makes me feel as though what I'm doing is impactful. I also love the people that I work with and they make my job so enjoyable. Being surrounded by staff that want to see me succeed is amazing and something I'm truly grateful for." We also asked Rosie how her job as impacted her experience at GVSU. She responded by saying, "My job has positively impacted my GVSU experience in so many wonderful ways. My job makes me feel like a part of the Grand Valley community, I get to learn right next to working professionals which is a great experience. I also get to be a part of a department at Grand Valley in which I actively get so many amazing opportunities I might have not been exposed to, if not for my job." Finally, Rosie's advice to students who are considering working on campus is "Apply to as many different campus jobs as possible. I applied to several jobs before I even got a response, but working as a student worker for GVSU is the best opportunity. Student employment helps give you experience and important skills for entering the job market, while sometimes allowing time for homework. I would also advise students to try and get a job freshman year that will allow you to make connections with staff while you're at Grand Valley. Overall, student employment is a really great opportunity for students." Thank you Rosie!
"Rosie comes in to work every day with a smile on her face. She is a light in our office. She always goes above and beyond to help everyone and wants to learn as much as she can. Her job here is extremely detail oriented and we appreciate her aptitude for this. Her favorite line is, "That's amazing" and when she says it you can't help but smile! Rosie exemplifies what being a student worker is all about and we thank her for being so wonderful!" - Christine Adams (Supervisor)
SEPTEMBER 2023 - CAM SCHUESSLER
Our Student Employee of the Month for September is Cam Schuessler! Cam is a third year student at GVSU studying sports management while working in the Recreation & Wellness department. When we asked Cam what he likes about his job he said, "There's an endless list of things I love about my job, but undoubtedly on top are the people I get to work with. Not only do I work with friends I've known for quite some time, meeting new people with similar interests in this job is just as pleasing." We also asked Cam how his job has impacted his experience at GVSU. His response was, "My freshman year, I didn't live on campus and felt pretty unconnected from GV in general. That first year I was only an official, but got to meet so many new people through officiating. This resulted in me becoming pretty outgoing and gave me a new perspective on meeting new faces and personalities. Additionally, I want to go into this career area, so any accomplishments and/or big projects I complete are directly transferable to my future plan." Finally, Cam's suggestions for potential student employees is, "If you would like a job on campus, it's not that hard to get one. They're always looking in some sort of way. For when you get the job, just show up with a mindset that says you want to be there. Put a smile on, make other students' days, and enjoy what you do."
"Cam has put in a lot of effort preparing our basketball official's training for the past two seasons. He not only has been creating the training materials and training outlines, but he has been coordinating with his coworkers to lead and execute the training plans. He has been an instrumental part of our program, loves what he does, and wants to always improve what we are doing as a program." - Mitch Eastlick (Supervisor)
AUGUST 2023 - KAT VANN
During the month of August, we would like to celebrate student Kat Vann as our Student Employee of the Month! Kat works in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and is a junior at GVSU studying Theatre with a minor in Environmental Sustainability. When asked what Kat likes about their job, they said, "The environment my coworkers have created makes it a wonderful place to work. I also enjoy answering students questions about their financial aid because I can tell it really helps them and makes an impact. Knowing the information helps myself as well! My job on campus has allowed me to have a flexible schedule, so that my classes and extracurriculars come first as a student. I also have a well rounded view of how financial aid can affect a student's college career, which has left me open minded as both a classmate and person." When we asked Kat if they had any advice for potential student employees, they said, "Don't be afraid to tell your employer what you need! You are first and foremost a student, on-campus jobs understand that. There are lots of student employment opportunities; feel free to talk to the Student Employment Office or look at their website to take a look! If you need to know whether you have work study for your on campus job, give our Financial Aid Office a call!"
"Kat plays a crucial role in our office by helping us answer phones. They are always going above and beyond to help students and families get their questions answered. Even during our very busy and stressful times, Kat remains very positive and polite to all our callers. Kat deserves to be recognized for their hard work and positivity!" - Alfany Rosales-Muro (Supervisor)
JULY 2023 - BRIANNA GORDON
For the month of July, we are highlighting Brianna Gordon as our student employee of the month! Brianna is a junior at GVSU studying chemistry and working in the Chemistry Department. Brianna says, "My jobs have allowed me to make connections within the chemistry department, meet new people, and work with peers who are going down the same academic path as me. I have made some wonderful friendships that I will cherish and take with me for a long time. Most of my college experience has been spent working at the chemistry stockroom and when I started working in the stockroom I was an undecided major taking classes in the BMS program and getting my general chemistry credits done. After my first year working, I switched my major to chemistry, met so many friends, started tutoring at the chemistry success center, and I recently just started researching. I couldn't imagine my GVSU experience going any other way. I have had the best time working alongside my peers and with my bosses. I truly cherish all the friends and connections that I have made throughout my time as a student employee and it's something I will forever be grateful for." When asked if Brianna has any advice for students who are thinking about working on campus she said, "Know that there are several opportunities to work in an area that interests you! Professors of mine suggested both of my jobs to me and I thought that it would be an amazing opportunity to work in the area in which I'm studying. You never know where opportunities may show up, but when they do I would take them."
"Brianna has worked for the Chemistry department, in the stockroom, for over a year and she has learned a couple different preps and has been going above and beyond by running a new experiment and working out the bugs for the faculty for the new biopolymer lab that they want to try. She has came in extra hours and has given the faculty very useful feedback." - Michelle DeWitt (Supervisor)
JUNE 2023 - BRODY FRENCH
For the month of June we are celebrating Brody French! Brody is a senior at GVSU studying psychology and works in the Mary Idema Pew Library. When asked what he likes most about his job at GVSU, Brody said, "I get to work with some amazing student co-workers. I’ve made many friends working at the library. I’ve learned so much more about GVSU working at the library. To work at the library, you need to have a general knowledge of locations, events, etc. to assist patrons. Without my job, I wouldn’t know half of the things about GVSU that I do now." Brody's advice for potential student employees is to, "understand that not only are you a worker, but you’re also a student. Find a nice balance between school and work." Thank you Brody!
"Brody is the kind of person that we need more of in this world. As a User Experience Student Employee, he regularly goes above and beyond expectations in order to make sure every patron leaves the library with a smile on their face. Whether it's for a professor, current or prospective student, coworker, etc. he genuinely wants to make the world a better place through both small and large acts of kindness. He has given personal impromptu tours of the building, remembers little details about others that make them feel heard and important, and always makes an attempt to connect with people through his own experiences at GVSU and beyond. Even being here until past midnight multiple times a week has never stopped Brody from being a positive force in this world and we are incredibly lucky and grateful to have him working with us." - Damian Martinez (supervisor)
MAY 2023 - SAHELI SEN
For the month of May, we are celebrating Saheli Sen as our Student Employee of the Month! Saheli is an international student studying Data Science and Analytics and worked for the School of Engineering while completing her degree this year. When asked about her experience working as a student employee, Saheli said, "I love everything about my job. This includes the learning opportunities, positive work culture, flexible schedule, and most importantly, the supportive and enjoyable co-workers and supervisors I work with. My experience working at GVSU has been incredibly positive, and my job has had a significant impact on my overall experience here. One of the primary ways my job has impacted me is by helping me to build a strong network across various departments and with different individuals which has been beneficial for my professional and personal growth. Despite being a student in the School of Computing, I was able to make valuable connections in the School of Engineering through my job. This allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills beyond my specific field of study, which has been extremely beneficial. Kennedy has become like a second home to me, where I have made many friends and met two incredible supervisors, Ashley and Hector. They have been more than just supervisors to me; they have also become my friends and mentors. Whenever I have faced a problem with my course or work schedule, or as an international student, they have had my back and provided me with the guidance and support I needed. I’ve been working with Ash since I joined GVSU and it has been particularly beneficial for me, as I have learned so much from her. Her mentorship and guidance have been invaluable, and I feel like I have grown tremendously as a result of her support. Overall, I can confidently say that this job has made my experience at GVSU the best it could be. Through my job, I have been able to build connections, gain valuable experience, and develop personally and professionally. I am grateful for the opportunities this job has provided me and the amazing people I have met through it." When we asked if she had any advice for students who may want to work on campus, Saheli's advice is "to focus on building connections with faculty, staff, and other students across different departments. It's important to keep your resume and cover letter up to date and take the initiative to reach out to faculty and staff members to express your interest in working on campus. Try to engage with as many people as possible and make a positive impression by being respectful, professional, and polite. Once you land a job, make sure to prioritize punctuality, flexibility, and cooperation to build positive relationships with your coworkers and supervisors."
"Saheli is truly exceptional! She's worked in the Padnos College of Engineering and Computing for a little over one year and has excelled in every role that was assigned to her. She's worn many hats, smoothly transitioning between working with office staff, lab supervisors, and accreditation admin. In her new role this semester, she has fearlessly taken on projects that have a large learning curve. She takes ownership of her tasks, completing them with excellence. Saheli is quick to learn new systems and technology and she is always happy to help new staff learn them as well. We appreciate Saheli's positive attitude, great work ethic, and determination that she brings every day. We know that she'll also thrive after graduation and can't wait to see all that she accomplishes!" - Ash Godin (Supervisor)
APRIL 2023 - PRESTON STURGIS
For the month of April we are celebrating Preston Sturgis! Preston is a sophomore at GVSU studying secondary education and specializing in history. When asked about how his job has impacted his experience at GVSU, Preston said, "I believe it is an excellent way to get myself involved in the community and has allowed me to network with other students and given me the opportunity to make new friends." Preston also said that "becoming a student employee is one of the best ways to get involved and meet new people in the GVSU community." Congratulations Preston!
"Preston is a new addition to the Recreation Center staff and has made an excellent impression! He always comes to work with a smile on his face and gives everyone a warm welcome into the facility! He consistently wipes down dirty areas in the Recreation Center and stays on top of his tasks! He is a team player and encourages his other staff members to work hard. He works early mornings and we can always rely on him to show up on time! We are so happy to have him as a part of our team!" -Isabell David (supervisor)
MARCH 2023 - JENNAH SPENCER
Our Student Employee of the Month for March is Jennah Spencer! Jennah is a sophomore at GVSU majoring in Finance and works within the School of Computing. Jannah says, "What I like most about my job is that I am able to build skills that will help me after I graduate and are transferable to my career field. This job has impacted my experience at GVSU by making me have a greater understanding and appreciation for administrative staff, faculty, and more. I get to see all the work that is put into helping students have a successful career at GVSU." When we asked Jennah if she has any recommendations for students looking for a job at GVSU she said, "I recommend looking into receptionist jobs because you get a work schedule that works for you and you will work with and meet so many great people."
"I am nominating Jennah because she has been a HUGE asset to our office staff this past year. Jennah really stepped up to the plate to take on more duties and to help cover the office. Over the past year she has really blossomed and takes the initiative with students who come into the office and when faculty need assistance. She has been key in writing and publishing our monthly newsletter that is sent out to all of our majors, updating our social media and school marketing materials. Most importantly she helps train and get our two new full-time staff up to speed on all things School of Computing. I truly to do not know how I would have survived the last year with out the support of Jennah in our office." - Lindsey Burns (Supervisor)
FEBRUARY 2023 - KEEGAN KALISEK
For the month of February, we are honoring Keegan Kalisek as our Student Employee of the Month! Keegan is a junior at GVSU, is studying chemistry, and works for the Chemistry Stockroom. When asked what he likes most about his job, Keegan said, "It's very hands-on and very relevant to my studies and future career. I get to develop meaningful knowledge that I may have never encountered otherwise. And, this job has left me feeling even more prepared for my future in the chemical industry than ever before. My job in the stockroom has exponentially improved my experience here at GVSU. One of the greatest benefits of working here is that I have been able to develop meaningful connections with both the faculty and staff within the Chemistry department. They have been tremendous in sharing their wisdom and experiences with me, helping me to better myself in my studies, and by providing resources to benefit my career planning. And on top of all that, I get to work along side a lot of awesome student employees, who I consider great friends." When we asked Keegan if he has any words of advice for students who are considering finding on-campus employment, he said, "Do it! Most importantly, look into the department you are majoring in, or one closely related. They open you up to awesome and helpful opportunities you may never experience otherwise."
"Keegan has worked in the Chemistry Stockroom since the March of 2022. He quickly learned to prep the Organic labs and one was of only a few students that worked all summer in the stockroom. This semester, when a need arose for a TA in the 242 Organic lab, Keegan stepped up and has been doing a great job with the students. He is the only TA in a chemistry lab, this semester. He spends time each week preparing and becoming familiar with the experiment and has shown true leadership skills. I am sure he will do great things with his chemistry degree after he graduates." - Michelle DeWitt (Supervisor)
JANUARY 2023 - MEGAN SNOEYINK
This month we are celebrating Megan Snoeyink who works in the CECI Advising Center! Megan is currently a junior at GVSU studying Social Work. When asked about her favorite part of working on campus, Megan said, "Everyone here feels like family. I know I can always trust others to advocate for me and put a smile on my face when I need it most. My job has made me feel more connected to campus and the resources that can help me succeed. Having my academic advisor working in my department has been so helpful. Social Work is also right up the hall and I have been able to build rapport with professors before having classes with them." Megan's advice for incoming students is, "If you're not sure where to start to get involved, a campus job is a step in the right direction. You can make friends and build a community while also benefiting your wallet. Coming from a commuter student, this has been a great opportunity to feel connected to campus and the community!"
"Megan has gone above and beyond not only helping with additional projects with our department but also with our neighboring departments. Megan has gone to website training and updated our site and Criminal Justice Department's website with it's functionality. She has done special projects for the CECI Dean's office and helped the Social Department faculty with general office questions and help. Megan is a bright light at our front desk and has gone out of her way to not only greet but get to know the faculty, staff and students on the Pew Campus! Go Megan!" - Betsy Wessels (Supervisor)
DECEMBER 2022 - ANAHI VILLEDA
For the month of December we are honoring Anahi Villeda! Anahi is a sophomore at GVSU studying marketing. Anahi works in the Battle Creek Regional Outreach Center and says, "I really like the environment at my job. It's friendly and welcoming. Not only do I have a boss but also a mentor/advisor who provides support and opportunities." When asked about how her job has impacted her experience at GVSU, Anahi said, "I have gained many connections on campus and learned professional skills that I know will aid me in my career. When working at a job on campus you are a student first, which helps balance work and school and means I am able to continue to succeed in my studies." Anahi's advice to potential student employees is to "just go for it. Many of the environments on campus are flexible with school and work schedules and connect you to the campus where you can make the most out of your time at GVSU." Congrats Anahi!
"Anahi goes above and beyond almost every single shift. She is a multitasker who checks tasks of her list very quickly and efficiently. She has become a mentor for several younger program scholars and has been a crucial addition to the Battle Creek Regional Outreach Center staff." - Leslie Strickland (Supervisor)
NOVEMBER 2022 - ELISA GUERRERO
Our Student Employee of the Month for November is Elisa Guerrero! Elisa is a senior who is double majoring in Criminal Justice and Legal Studies. Elisa says, "My favorite part of my job is the people I work with! My supervisors are the best people who provide me with a ton of support. Working on campus has provided me with many opportunities and I feel more connected with the community because I know all the resources and events that GVSU can provide!" When asked what she likes most about her job, Elisa said, "I'm very much a people person and this job has led me to meet so many people that are outside my cohort. I run social media and communication for PCEC (Padnos College of Engineering and Computing) which has taught my so many social skills. I highly recommend an on-campus job as school always comes first in this environment. Supervisors provide flexible schedules as well as tremendous support! GVSU employment wants you to succeed!"
"Elisa is an exceptional student employee. She greets everyone with a genuine smile and warm welcome. She is a hard worker, with a great work ethic. She is professional and completes job duties independently. She is also very reliable and a pleasure to work with." - Sarah Kozminski (Supervisor)
OCTOBER 2022 - TY RIZER
Ty Rizer is our Student Employee of the Month for October! Ty is getting his Masters of Education in Educational Technology and works in the IT Technology Showcase at GVSU. When asked what he liked most about his job Ty said, "The opportunity to actually do what I'm studying to do every day and the resources to fully realize projects that I could never finish on my own. At the Technology Showcase, we offer campus the opportunity to interact with emerging technology like the Hololens 2 for themselves. And when the foot traffic slows down and there's no tours to give, student workers like myself are not only allowed but encouraged by our supervisors to work on personal projects which activate the hardware in the room. The chance to tinker with tech like Hololens 2 while actually getting paid is really exciting to me." When asked about how his job experience has impacted his overall experience as a student at GVSU Ty said, "At the Technology Showcase, my supervisors have constantly sought to provide me with opportunities to take my work further and centered my progress in front of people who could help my career someday. The experience that I have had here has been an integral component of my studies. It's one thing to read about methodologies and interventions and another thing entirely to have the chance to develop a real tool yourself. The Technology Showcase has given me a way to ground my research in reality while I'm still in school."
Ty's recommendations for potential student employees is to "Be proactive and stay excited! Campus jobs provided me with experience on my resume and work on my portfolio that, as a creative professional, directly enabled me to get my first jobs. In my experience, people can feel genuine enthusiasm and respond to it. Explore campus, find things that you care about, and don't be afraid to invest in them. It could be just as important as your classwork."
"Ty went above and beyond all summer in the Technology Showcase ideating and building new ideas with virtual reality including a Molecular Model Virtual Reality Gallery in partnership with a faculty member in the Chemistry Department. He set the gold standard for our Showcase tours in applying all the technology back to its usefulness in learning. Finally, he was pivotal in building relationships across the campus and technology community helping bring together area technology stakeholders to discuss and ideate on the future of technology in education." - Hunter Bridwell (Supervisor)
SEPTEMBER 2022 - REBECCA DULL
Our Student Employee of the Month for September is Rebecca Dull! Rebecca is a 5th year senior majoring in Integrated Science and Elementary Education. Rebecca works in the Regional Math and Science Center (RMSC) and says, "It has launched me into a community I never knew existed. I was able to join and learn from like-minded individuals and I was given opportunities to share my skills and improve on them. Through my involvement with the RMSC I have gained more confidence in my chosen field of education." When asked what she likes most about her position Rebecca said, "I enjoy making connections with people and working with the RMSC gave me the opportunity to form relationships with thoughtful leaders." Her advice to students who want to work on campus is to "stay open to new opportunities. Sometimes it is beneficial to pass up a job where you could make more money to instead gain more experience or opportunities in your chosen field." Thank you Rebecca!
"Rebecca is a diligent and organized employee, kind, and on task. As a new hire for the summer she came in with a positive attitude and willingness to support our diverse office needs. Her first day at the RMSC was the first day we gained access to our new office space. She came in to stacks of boxes and new faces. Her willingness to jump into unpacking boxes on her first day speaks to her supportive nature and passion for problem solving. She does a wide variety of tasks for our office, from writing and mailing letters to calling parents, rinsing out bottles to use as part of our summer camp programming, creating bulleting boards, and running errands. We appreciate her positive attitude, smile and flexibility as our summer programming demands it. She rises to every occasion and gets along well with staff." - Shelly Micho (Supervisor)
AUGUST 2022 - JOEY GUSUMANO
Joey Gusumano has been awarded Student Employee of the Month for August! Joey is entering his junior year, is studying Film and Video Production, and works in the Dean of Students Office. Joey says, "I like being able to help students who are overwhelmed with school or life and need someone to talk to. Working at the Dean of Students has helped me make the most of my time at Grand Valley, whether it be through campus resources or social events." When we asked Joey if he had any advice for potential student employees he said, "I think all freshman should try to work on campus because it helps you learn about the GV campus, gives flexibility with school schedules, and offers accountability when you move away from home."
"Joey has become an asset in our office. When given a challenge he does not hesitate to accept, rather he asks questions and figures out the best way to approach it. He has been very receptive to feedback and is always looking to improve his work. He communicates effectively his needs to get a task or project done as well as when he encounters a barrier." - Noel Rodriguez (Supervisor)
July 2022 - ALAYSHA CANNON
Our Student Employee of the Month for July is Alaysha Cannon. Congratulations Alaysha! Alaysha is a sophomore at GVSU majoring in Pre-Dental Biomedical Sciences. When asked about her employment in the Provost's Office Alaysha said, "I love the environment created by my supervisor and the support given to one another. I have been able to learn a lot more about GVSU and the resources available." Her advice to potential student employees is to "go for it and make sure you stay engaged with your supervisor and make sure you communicate."
"Alaysha is a prime example of hard work and dedication. She shows up every day ready to tackle the tasks that she is assigned and is often a motivator and cheerleader for other student employees. She encourages people to become involved as much as possible on campus and is often viewed as a mentor for younger scholars in our program." - Leslie Strickland (Supervisor)
JUNE 2022 - JESSE GOODYEAR
Jesse Goodyear is our Student Employee of the Month for June! Congrats Jesse! Jesse is currently a senior who is studying Accounting and Finance and works in the Admissions Office. Jesse says, "GVSU is such an awesome university which I love attending and nothing gives me more pride than being able to show prospective students how great our university is! I also love being around all the other student employees and being able to work so closely with the faculty and staff in the admissions office." When we asked Jesse what he likes most about his job, he said "Working in the Admissions office at GVSU has provided me with so many great opportunities, friendships and a once in a lifetime experience and I could not imagine my college/American life without it! I would highly recommend for students to work on campus, not only has it opened up so many doors for me but has also provided me with lifelong friendships and so many memories that I will never forget."
"Jesse consistently brings a smile to everyone's face in our office - both staff and all the prospective students and families he shows around campus. He continually jumps in where needed to support staff with calls, campus tours, New Student Orientation preparations and more. Often times our tour guides are a family's first and only impression of GVSU and Jesse represents us excellently. He's reliable, positive, and a great role model to all other students as well. To top it all off, he balances it with a full load of business courses and demanding schedule as a student-athlete." - Sarah Tibbe (Supervisor)
MAY 2022 - ZOYA DEEN
For the month of May we are celebrating Zoya Deen! Zoya is a sophomore at GVSU who is majoring in Anthropology and minoring in Archaeology. Zoya works with the Seidman house and says it has "a caring community of students and supervisors that has made it such a pleasure to work here. With my job at Seidman House I love that I am always learning new things and new skills for my future. Before working here, I had no experience with archives work. Now, I've been able to work on all kinds of different tasks, like how to take in new historic records, how to organize them for researchers to use, and so much more." When we asked Zoya how her job has impacted her experience at GVSU, she said "Through this job I have found new friends in my coworkers at Seidman House who provide me with support. I learn new things about GVSU's history every day which helps me feel more connected to campus. Most notably, my work with archives and special collections opened up a new realm of possibility for a future in library sciences." Finally, Zoya's advice to students who are considering employment at GVSU is "to apply for a wide variety of jobs you may be interested in, and if your schedule allows. It may lead you to a new field you hadn't considered before."
"Zoya comes to every shift ready to take on new challenges. Her work is high-quality and thorough, and she never hesitates to go the extra step. She has improved signage and organized the office, written metadata to make digital collections more accessible, created amazing exhibits, helped us keep up with social media, and so much more. It was her initiative to give compliment cards around the department, which has us constantly smiling! We appreciate all of the hard work and enthusiasm Zoya brings!" - Leigh Rupinski (Supervisor)
APRIL 2022 - LUKE JAROSZEWICZ
This month we are celebrating Luke Jaroszewicz who works in Housing and Residence Life! Luke is a senior majoring in Business and enjoys the variety of tasks he gets to perform in his job. "For example, one day I might be preparing quarantine/isolation rooms with food and other hygienic supplies, while another day I end up completing work orders like helping with a bed loft, or repairing dresser drawers. This job always keeps me guessing on what tasks I will have to do and I like that because it never gets boring for me." When asked about how his job has impacted his experience at GVSU, Luke said "the job helped me learn to navigate around campus when I first started as a freshmen. This job also has impacted my abilities to manage multiple tasks at once, communicate better, and to critically think when unexpected situations arise. Lastly, I have been able to meet so many people from different backgrounds with many different insights and that has made me more knowledgeable in areas that I had no intentions of learning about when I first arrived at GVSU. This has enabled me to grow as a person throughout my time working here." Luke's advice for potential student employees is "if your studies allow the time for you to work, then I would highly recommend doing so for many reasons. Working on campus is a great way to build connections, expand networks, and learn great work ethics. Personally, working on campus has helped me become more structured in my daily routine. Getting a job with GVSU can also be used to add to a resume. Lastly, and most obvious, it is beneficial to have some additional income, especially being a college student."
"Luke's dedication includes working 6-7 days per week and being extremely reliable. This past month alone, he and his team made nearly 150 special request deliveries. Luke has had to think strategically to be as efficient as possible with deliveries to assure students get what they need a timely manner. It's safe to say we would not be able to provide the quality support to on campus students without his dedication and support. " - Adam Tate (supervisor)
MARCH 2022 - HAILEE KLEEVES
Hailee Kleeves is the winner of our Student Employee of the Month for March. Congratulations Hailee! Hailee is currently a junior at GVSU studying Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice and Sociology. The best part of Hailee's job is her coworkers. She says "Through this job, I have been able to meet and connect with so many other students who make coming to work fun. Working an on-campus job has given me the opportunity to expand my job skills while also making sure that I put my schoolwork first. My supervisors always understand that there may be school conflicts that come up and do their best to work around my schedule." When we asked Hailee if she has any advice for other students on campus, she said "I highly recommend getting an on-campus job, it is the best way to meet new people on campus as well as successfully balance your classes and your job." Thank you Hailee!
"Parking Services is a tough place to work but Hailee never complains and maintains a positive, professional attitude with every customer. She is incredibly dependable and ever helpful in the office. She goes above and beyond every day and does it with grace and aplomb! I am so grateful she is on the team!" - Julie Carbine (Supervisor)
FEBRUARY 2022 - HANNAH HOLFELS
Congratulations Hannah Holfels! She is our Student Employee of the Month for February and is a senior studying Psychology with a minor in Ethics, Culture and Society. Hannah works in the Psychology Department on campus and says "I like working with the Psychology departments because I can get to know a little bit about all the professors in the department and help them out doing miscellaneous tasks. I also appreciate that this job works around my schedule well." When we asked how her job has impacted her experience at GVSU, Hannah said "It has made me more comfortable talking to strangers and people that are my superior." Some advice Hannah has for students who are interested in working on campus is "Do it. They work with your schedule and, at least in my position when things are slow, you can work on other projects (as long as you're doing the job still)."
"Hannah's skills of searching to find results to complete a project are invaluable. She clearly understands what the end product needs to be so she can locate the correct details in between, and go beyond the request in offering additional pieces of information. Hannah's desire to learn and grow is evident as she takes initiative in asking quality questions while providing first-rate customer service. Hannah has a ready smile and her personality is one that is calming to those in her presence. Working with Hannah is a true joy as she serves both departments in an efficacious manner." - Joyce Sullivan & Pam De Windt (Supervisors)
JANUARY 2022 - FAITH KUIPERS
Please join us in congratulating our first Student Employee of the Month of 2022, Faith Kuipers! Faith is a senior at GVSU double majoring in Exercise Science and Allied Health Science. Faith is currently employed with the GVSU COVID Testing Team and says "I like how it has exposed me to more students that are outside of my major. I find it interesting to learn why people chose their major and what they are passionate about. I also like how flexible, organized, and caring the management team is." When asked about how her job has impacted her experience as a GVSU student, Faith said, "I think it has made my last year at GVSU more memorable. I get to work in one of the most iconic buildings on campus and reflect on the various memories I have made at GV during the last 3 years." Her advice to potential student employees is to "make a good impression at work because you could use your employer as a reference in the future. A strong reference can help open up additional opportunities for you whether that is graduate school or a job post-graduation." Thanks Faith!
"Faith is a dedicated and dependable. She is always willing to jump in to any position needed to make the testing sites successful. She anticipates the needs of testing sites and reacts accordingly. She is kind and informative to COVID testers. Faith is an asset to the COVID Testing Program." - Erika Van Dyke (Supervisor)
DECEMBER 2021 - ASHLEY LOTHSCHUTZ
For the month of December, we are highlighting Ashley Lothschutz, a student employee in the library on campus. Ashley is currently a senior majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Spanish. When asked about her position, Ashley said "I like that each day in the library is a little bit different. There are a variety of tasks that need to be done and I've been able to work with amazing people for the past four years. Working at the library has given me a space where I am able to take a break from my classes and do something that I enjoy as well as build skills that I will be able to apply to my future career. Grand Valley's student employment options have something for everyone and I am grateful that I found my place at the library."
"Ashley is a rockstar resource of information for her staff and student colleagues. She always brings a positive attitude and energetic creativity to every type of task. Ashley volunteers and flexes her schedule to help train her colleagues. We greatly appreciate all the work Ashley's put in to prepare training materials for and help train our new staff this semester!" - Katie Alphenaar (Supervisor)
November 2021 - Landon Nalepinski
This month we are celebrating Landon Nalepinski who works with Information Technology at the Blackboard Help Desk for the eLearning Team. Landon is a first year graduate student earning a Professional Master of Arts in Social Innovation. Landon enjoys "being able to work with different faculty and staff members every day" and says "it is fun getting to speak with different people that often have a wide variety of issues that they need assistance with." When asked about how their role has impacted their experience at GVSU, Landon said "this position has been incredibly eye-opening for me as I am now seeing Blackboard from the instructor's perspective. I applaud the amount of work that faculty put into building their Blackboard courses in order to help their students be more interactive and successful during the semester." Landon's advice for prospective students is to "apply for any job that you think you might be interested in! Don't take the job too lightly but have fun with it; talk with your coworkers, get to know the full-time faculty/staff, and take the opportunity to learn new things or expand on your skills!"
"His work is phenomenal! Landon is very courteous, helpful, and speedy in his responses. He has set a high bar for what quality, courteous work looks like." -Barbara Stevens (supervisor)
October 2021 - Olivia Gordon
Olivia is our second student employee at GVSU to win Student Employee of the Month. Olivia is currently a senior earning her degree in chemistry and environmental and sustainability studies. When asked about her role in the Movement Science Department Olivia said, "The things I enjoy most about my job are the relationships I've built with my peers and supervisors and the flexibility that the job provides when it comes to focusing on classwork. My job has impacted my experience at GV in lots of ways! I think the most important thing it's done for me is given me consistency and provided a space for me to be able to decompress without additional stressors." When asked about advice she would give to prospective student employees she said, "Just go for it! There are a ton of different job opportunities that are sure to fit your schedule and interests."
"Olivia has continuously displayed a strong work ethic and commitment to professional customer service, showing initiative and the ability to think critically across a number of tasks. Olivia is friendly and cheerful with everyone she services, whether it's faculty or students, in person or on the phone. She has a positive attitude and quickly responds to staff, faculty and student requests. We can always trust that work given to Olivia will be done independently and thoroughly. When we need creative flair, Olivia is our go-to person. She decorates our office and faculty doorways with each season. She has taken over maintaining our department billboards. Anything that needs organizing, Olivia will do it! She helped convert all of the department office records from hard-copy to electronic filing. There is really no way to capture her extraordinary performance as a Student Employee for Movement Science." - Andrea Vincent (Supervisor)
September 2021 - Tommy Nate
Tommy Nate is our first Student Employee of the Month and is a junior at GVSU majoring in finance. When asked about his job Tommy said, "I very much enjoy my job, but most of all I enjoy the supportive work environment provided by all staff members at the SBDC (Small Business Development Center). My job has greatly impacted my experience at GVSU. It has allowed me to become more involved in different aspects of the college community while also providing opportunities to meet and connect with new people." When asked about advice he would give to students looking for employment he encouraged them "to explore all opportunities and to approach new jobs with an excited mindset. Don't be afraid of new chances to engage!"
"Tommy Nate has played an important role in launching many of the new Digital Transformation efforts at the Michigan SBDCs. He has been instrumental in supporting our new brand. He stepped into his role during the pandemic and quickly adjusted to remote work and a new team with a positive attitude and impressive work ethic. Tommy has helped our rebrand team successfully implement statewide orders for new brand materials, positively contributing to employee engagement and generating excitement around our new brand launch. In addition, Tommy is on the front lines of our new Salesforce launch, helping to piece together our weekly status reports, our SWAG giveaways, and supporting the Program Manager. He has also learned much about our internal Learning Management Systems and will soon be leading a research project across the nations SBDC's for how clients learn and how subjects are most important to them." - Hollie Blagg (Supervisor)