The G. Brint Ryan College of Business is celebrating the outstanding achievements of two academic advisors who received Academic Advisor of the Year Awards. This student-nominated, campus-wide recognition highlights their exceptional dedication to student success. Many more advisors from the Ryan College of Business were nominated, underscoring our college's high standards of academic guidance. Three advisors provided insight into their roles, stories of success in their careers at UNT, and advice for students and other advisors.

John Smith (Winner of the 2024 Advisor of the Year Award - Academic Advisor, Undergraduate Programs): I know I've made a significant impact on my students' lives through the relationships I've built with them. For instance, I've had students tell me that I was the first person who believed in them and encouraged them to succeed. One student even introduced me to their significant other, and another invited me to their wedding. I've seen students overcome immense challenges, and some have expressed their gratitude by saying I was the reason they pushed forward and graduated. Each of these moments has been unique and reaffirming, showing me the profound effect an advisor can have on a student's journey.

The fifth student I ever advised was a pivotal moment in my career and completely changed my perspective on advising. She was having a breakdown in her car, and while I initially approached the situation thinking I would simply help her choose classes, I quickly realized she needed much more than that. What she really needed was comfort, reassurance, and motivation. As I focused on providing that support, I could see her tears slowly fade, replaced by a smile. Her confidence grew, and soon after, her grades made a miraculous turnaround. I had the privilege of seeing her graduate, and when we spoke, she was beyond excited, sharing how she had overcome her struggles. Her entire family thanked me, and it was my first full-circle moment as an advisor. Meeting her in that situation changed my outlook and made me better at what I do.

[If you are a new academic advisor entering the field,] embrace each situation with an open mind, as no two students or scenarios are the same. Be prepared for something new every day and approach each challenge with flexibility. Don't be discouraged if you find the technical aspects of the job difficult at first; your primary focus should always be on the students. As long as you’re committed to supporting them and building relationships, you’re doing a great job. Remember, we are here to serve the students first and foremost.

Time management is crucial in my role, especially given the high demand for advising in the BLB. It can be overwhelming at times, and it’s easy to feel burnt out. However, taking a moment to breathe and reset helps me regain focus and manage the fast-paced environment effectively. It’s important to remember that while I work here, the job doesn’t define or control me. When it comes to students, it’s essential to approach each one with empathy and understanding. Students come to us with a wide range of emotions, energies, and needs. Being open and supportive is key because, at the end of the day, they are people too, and our role is to guide them not just academically, but also personally.

 

Christine Ellis (Runner-Up Advisor of the Year - Sr. Academic Counselor, Accounting Department): Over my 17 years of service at UNT, I've had the privilege of serving in various roles and departments, each contributing to my passion for student success.

For the past 7 years, I've had the privilege of advising our BS/MS students, witnessing their growth and success firsthand. My primary goal has always been to support students in every aspect of their academic journey, whether it's course selection, program progression, internship planning, or connecting them with essential resources. One of the strategies I've implemented is the "Plan of Action Items," a personalized roadmap for each student to follow between advising sessions. This proactive approach ensures students stay on track and maximizes their chances of success.

My philosophy is to encourage students to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. I emphasize that failure is a natural and valuable part of the learning process. When they encounter setbacks, it’s important to see these as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. I remind them that education is a continuous journey with ongoing lessons to be learned. I also stress the importance of being proactive and engaged in their own growth “be a sponge” in their education and career journey. There will always be lessons to learn.

I am deeply honored by the recognition I have received from supervisors, peers, and professional organizations for my dedication to UNT. However, being nominated as a finalist for the UNT Advisor of the Year award is especially meaningful, as it reflects the impact I've had on students' lives and their academic achievements.

 

Melody Pratt (Nominee for Advisor of the Year - Program Project Coordinator, Undergraduate Programs): Much of my career has been administrative/secretarial. Whether I was working with elementary teachers or families, or faculty at the university level, it was very similar to working with my own 6 children. Ha!! This job allows me to use the skills I’ve already learned in the office and combine them with my parenting skills. No matter the age of the student, I find they can still use help accumulating all of the necessary information, as well as the support and encouragement I’m used to giving to my own kids. The success of our students motivates me to continue working as an academic advisor. I enjoy cheering them on and watching their progress and being in their corner all along the way.

I was speechless when I found out I had been nominated for this award. Because it is student nominated, it means even more. I work with such amazing students. I’m grateful they thought enough of me to take the time to complete the nomination. This nomination has re-energized me as an advisor. It reminds me that what I do matters and students appreciate the information I share with them and the help I give.

[In situations where students are struggling academically or personally,] I begin with grace and patience. I don’t know what each student is walking through. So, I make every attempt to be as prepared as possible when we get together. I have all of my paperwork prepared and have thought through options so that students can choose what works best for them, i.e. retaking a course at UNT or a community college, or finding resources needed for personal issues. I believe my success as an academic advisor is because I personally care about each of my students. I try very hard to connect with each student because I truly do want them to know I’m in their corner and here to help them get to the finish line.