SIUE ‘student-centered’ community drew in CAS adviser

SIUE’s student-centered community was the most attractive reason for Brandon Guthrie to join the College of Arts and Sciences advising department this year.

Brandon Guthrie is the newest College of Arts and Sciences adviser. Photo by Manuel Poch.

“One of the things that stood out of SIUE was what I read in the mission statement and [it] talked about being student-centered,” Guthrie said.

Guthrie’s advising experience began at Soldan International Studies High School in Saint Louis, Missouri, where he guided students on “what to do to get to college.”

Guthrie said assisting students with college applications, helping them select schools and taking them on campus visits helped him develop professionally.

He added that giving guidance and advice to students to help them grow is important “not just on what classes to take but on how to be successful in life in general.”

Guthrie said he also enjoys following up with students on their progress to make sure they are on track for graduation.

“What I like most about advising is getting to know students and being able to watch them grow,” Guthrie said. “Seeing students succeed, reaching their full potential and achieving goals they set for themselves is the gratification I get.”

According to Guthrie, one of the most challenging aspects of advising is getting the student to talk and express their ideas.

“Talking will help them think about it even more and maybe come to a rational decision,” Guthrie said. “I am not here to make the decision for them but to get them to talk and think to help them make the decision that is best for themselves.”

Guthrie said communication skills and knowing what questions to ask are crucial attributes to cultivate in order to help students make the right decisions.

“If you are trying to get deeper information, start with basic questions and each time ask a question to go a little bit deeper to make them feel comfortable,” Guthrie said.

Guthrie obtained a master’s degree in higher education administration at University of Missouri in Columbia where he also completed his bachelor’s degree in sociology.

 

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