Your L&S Adviser: Susan Cass

I graduated with a degree in English from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo. As a student, I enjoyed my work as a resident adviser and peer health educator so much that I decided to make a career out of working on college campuses. I started out at Stanford coordinating orientation as well as supporting the resident adviser hiring and training programs. Following my time at Stanford, I went on to earn a master's degree in Higher Education Administration at Boston College and returned to work as a resident hall director at the University of Washington. After that position, I served as an admissions officer at Pitzer College in southern California. Finally, I came to Cal and worked as a major adviser for Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology in the College of Natural Resources. I came to the College of Letters and Science in fall of 2005 and now work as a college adviser.

Essentially, I never left college and I can't imagine working in any other field. I believe in the role education - and particularly the liberal arts education - plays in improving individuals and society. I like being around folks that are curious, thoughtful, and informed. Even as a staff person, you can still enjoy taking part in campus activities. I've worked on various committees - and even did some DJ training and produced stories for a public affairs show at the campus radio station KALX.

Having worked on several campuses large and small, I can tell you that the most successful students pursue their interests passionately and don't wait for opportunities to come to them. They take initiative and create a community of peers, staff and faculty to guide them along the way. They are genuinely invested in campus life. It will take a bit of courage on your part, but I think you'll find as you step out and keep yourself open to growth and change a great adventure awaits you.