Alexandra Drent

Responsibilities

I got to work in the Student Assistance Office on Iowa State's campus. This office is to assistance any student in any situation and we guide them to the resource that best fits their needs in other offices on campus. When something unexpected happens it is difficult to know what would help best and that is what our team's job is! We get exposed to various situations. In this internship I got to assist the team with outreach and communication to students and other stakeholders. I supported data entry and analysis of student trends, including supporting assessment efforts in Student Assistance. I observed and shadowed the team and once I felt ready, met with students one-on-one. I got to participate in case management meetings with the team and got to engage in projects related to student wellbeing and success.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment was being able to present to my team about grief and trauma through the lens of a college student. Throughout my time in the Student Assistance office, I learned about grief and trauma through the students I met with as well as used my personal experiences to help the team better understand how to care and support students going through difficult situations during their time at Iowa State. It helped the team see any ways faculty and staff within the university can change the approaches they have now to better fit the needs of students.

Learning experience

I got a perspective on the different types of situations that college students have to face that a lot of the times aren't in their control. I got to firsthand see the struggles of students and helped them walk through solutions. I have learned the importance of support and having the courage to reach out when we need assistance. I have loved the team I worked with and knowing their heart behind supporting every student. It is important in this profession to know that you have a team that is so supportive.

What advice would you give?

I would say to find what you are passionate about and run towards it. There is a reason why we choose this major and using your personal experiences to connect with people can go a long way.