Marnie completed her bachelor’s degree at Purdue University where she majored in History and Gender studies and minored in Anthropology and Polictical Science.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Marnie is working as the Outreach graduate assistant (GA) for Residence Education and House Services (REHS). In her GA, she is developing skills in supervision, program development, recruitment, and staff development.

Why did Marnie choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because of the opportunities for graduate students within the program, the cohort model, and the welcoming Spartan spirit amongst the community. I am excited to learn more from the experienced faculty, staff, and peers at Michigan State!”

Maria Jose earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with minors in Child Advocacy & Policy and Social Work from Montclair State University.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Maria Jose is a graduate assistant (GA) working with MSU Registered Student Organizations for the Office of Spartan Experiences. In this position, Maria Jose advises and supports MSU student organizations and she assists with Office of Spartan Experiences programming.

Why did Maria Jose choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“During the SPD weekend, I was impressed by the passion and commitment toward serving students and the campus community. This inspired me to choose the SAA Program at MSU, where I hope to work alongside like-minded colleagues and mentors who share my drive to improve Higher Education.”

J.C completed a bachelor’s degree in Film Studies with a minor in Creative Writing from Oakland University.

As an SAA MA student at MSU, J.C has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, J.C supervises a team of resident assistants (RAs) and is developing skills in crisis management and residential leadership.

Why did J.C choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU due to how much I fell in love with the program when I visited during Spartan Preview Days. I immediately felt like I was at home here and everyone in the program has made me feel welcome.”

Isabella has a bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology and a minor in Chicane & Latine Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

As a first-year SAA MA student at MSU, Isabella serves as a graduate assistant for MSU’s Honors College where she is assisting with student affairs initiatives centered on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).

Why did Isabella choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“The SAA MA Program makes it clear how much they care about and support students in the program. I am excited to meet and work with my cohort and professional staff!”

Emily Gerber earned her bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where she double majored in Psychological & Brain Sciences and Organization & Strategic Management, and she minored in Economics.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Emily is a graduate assistant with MSU’s Honors College. In this role, Emily advises student organizations within the Honors College, assists with planning and implementing Honors College Programming, and facilitates leadership development for Honors College student leaders.

Why did Emily choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA Program at MSU because of the environment created during visit weekend by the 1st- and 2nd-year cohorts and the way the faculty took the time to get to know all of the prospective students during visit weekend.”

Rimma completed her bachelor’s degree program in Translational Studies and Interpretation with a minor in German from Siberian Federal University in Krasnoyarsk, Russia.

As a first-year SAA MA student at MSU, Rimma is a graduate assistant serving as an Assistant Community Director (ACD) with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In this role, Rimma supervises a team of resident assistants, advises a student residence hall senate, and assists the Community Director in creating a stronger community within the residence halls.

Why did Rimma choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA Program because the coordinators provided an amazing opportunity to connect to the program and future cohort while being the world apart.”

Yexin earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Iowa State University.

Why did Yexin choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I liked the curriculum layout and the amount of hands-on experience I could get throughout the program. When I came for Spartan Preview Days, all the staff members were so welcoming, caring, and friendly.”

Jakaira is an MSU alum and has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in African Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Jakaira is a graduate assistant with MSU’s Office of Spartan Experiences. In her role, Jakaira creates and facilitates leadership training workshops, selects, trains, and advises student leaders, creates accessible web resources, assists in the planning and implementation of campus-wide leadership conferences, and participates in departmental activities.

Why did Jakaira choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I was a part of undergrad at MSU and I worked under a lot of great professionals such as Dr. Joy Hannibal, who made MSU more of a home for me, so I felt it would be the best place to further my education.”

Laurel earned her bachelor’s degree from Albion College where she majored in Psychological Science and minored in Kinesiology.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Laurel serves as a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Laurel supports and supervises a team of resident assistants in MSU’s residence halls.

Why did Laurel choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because it immediately felt like home. From the moment I expressed interest in the program, SAA students and faculty were reaching out to me and offering support and answers to questions I had. I’m so happy to have found a community here!”

Taylor has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in North American Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Taylor holds a graduate assistantship as an Assistant Community Director (ACD) with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). As an ACD, Taylor is responsible for the general supervision of her designated Resident Assistant staff and supporting the building Community Director in the planning, implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive community and student development program for the community.

Why did Taylor choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“From the moment I stepped on campus I knew that I belonged at Michigan State. I felt welcome when I came to Preview Days and made strong connections with students and faculty. I was also drawn to the challenging and progressive academic experiences, as well as the important practical work exposure the program offers.”

Emiley earned her bachelor’s degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis where she majored in Sociology & Communications Studies and minored in Global & Intercultural Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Emiley serves as the graduate assistant for Leadership and Advising for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In her role, Emiley is an advisor to the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and is responsible for creating training and development activities.

Why did Emiley choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I wanted to be challenged academically and exercise classroom concepts in a real-world experience. I felt that MSU’s program would best allow me to integrate my undergrad background of sociology. The variety of assistantships, campus, and curriculum drew me to MSU!”

Heidi earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut where she majored in Political Science and Latino & Latin American Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Heidi is a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she works with Residential Learning Programs. In this assistantship, Heidi coordinates initiatives for the Spartan Navigator residential learning program in collaboration with on-campus departments, centers, and institutes. She also contributes to the University’s strategic plan to improve graduation rates by planning, implementing, and evaluating programs for second-year students that address topics such as career planning, leadership development, conflict resolution, and wellness.

Why did Heidi choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program because, in interactions with program faculty and students, I felt welcomed and was easily able to envision myself as a part of the SAA family. As a first-generation student, having a supportive community to learn from and with was something important to me in a program, and I found that here!”

Matt is an MSU alum and has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Matt has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where he works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In his role, Matt supervises, guides, and assists his staff of resident assistants to help promote safety and build community in the residence hall and Neighborhood.

Why did Matt choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I love being involved with the university and working with students, so this seemed like the perfect fit for me!”

Serenity earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminology & Justice Studies and Sociology from California State University, San Marcos.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Serenity is the Communications graduate assistant for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In this assistantship, Serenity coordinates and executes events to support students living on campus and promote the department and its values. She also supervises the Live On Campus Crew and assists in identifying new opportunities for expansion/growth of the REHS message to underserved communities.

Why did Serenity choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because they provide a fun and safe environment to explore different opportunities for experiential learning.”

Kennedy is an MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance.

Why did Kennedy choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“MSU has a commitment to DEI that is present throughout the institution. That was of high importance to me when looking for a program!”

Andrew completed his bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in African American Studies at West Chester University of Pennsylvania.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Andrew serves as a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where he works as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In his role, Andrew oversees residence education initiatives and supervises a staff of resident assistants.

Why did Andrew choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA program because it immediately made me feel at home when I first came to campus and everyone else in the program made it feel so welcoming and inviting!”

Kylee earned her bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies with a minor in Communications from California State University, San Marcos.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Kylee is the Recruitment, Selection, and Training graduate assistant for Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS). In her assistantship, Kylee assists in the recruitment and training of undergraduate, graduate, and professional candidates/staff for REHS.

Why did Kylee choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I wanted a program that allowed me to gain practical experience in the field while learning more about how to best support students in a university setting.”

Kamola completed her bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature at Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Kamola has a graduate assistantship with the MSU Writing Center where she works as a Graduate Coordinator. In this role, Kamola works to build new relationships with campus units and fosters existing campus relationships both on campus and in digital spaces.

Why did Kamola choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I am excited about advocating for education and self-development, combating injustices, and promoting diverse and equitable student opportunities.”

Andrew earned their bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in History from Oakland University in Michigan.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Andrew has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education & Housing Services (REHS) where they work as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Andrew supervises a staff of resident assistants and supports the Community Director in caring for the residence hall community.

Why did Andrew choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because student success is near to my heart and I have the opportunity to not only learn about how to help students succeed in a great environment but actively work towards that both in and out of class.”

Chloe is an MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Relations & Policy and History with a minor in Jewish Studies.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Chloe is a graduate assistant with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) where she serves as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In her assistantship, Chloe serves the University Apartments Community and supervises resident assistants in the community!

Why did Chloe choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I developed a passion for student affairs during my undergraduate career and I knew I wanted to pursue my Master’s in Higher Education. The SAA program at MSU is amazing, and throughout the application process it became clear that this is where I was meant to go for grad school.”

Justin completed his bachelor’s degree at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan where he majored in Political Science and minored in History and Psychology.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Justin has a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) as an Assistant Community Director (ACD). In this role, Justin supervises a staff of resident assistants and assists the Community Director in caring for the overall residential community.

Why did Justin choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“MSU felt like home when I toured for Spring Preview Day. The rigorous academic environment and hands-on experience in student affairs work was what sold me. Go Green!”

Hannah earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University where she majored in Public Policy and minored in Nonprofit Management.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Hannah is the graduate assistant for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) for MSU Student Life and Engagement. In her assistantship, Hannah supports the Office of Cultural and Academic Transition, Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, Women*s Student Services, Student Veterans Resource Center, and Student Parent Resource Center, as well as Dr. Genyne Royal with various projects and programming.

Why did Hannah choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I wanted a graduate program that would allow me to gain direct experience in the field while further grounding my practices in theory and literature. “

Julia earned her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education with a minor in Psychology from Grand Valley State University.

As a first-year SAA MA student, Julia has a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Admissions where she works as an Admissions Associate. In this role, Julia leads admissions presentations to students and families during the ‘First Year Prospective Programs (FPP)’, works with admissions counselors on specialized projects, and assists prospective students and families with the admissions process.  

Why did Julia choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I am excited for the diverse opportunities available within the program and on campus to gain experience working in higher education. I was drawn to the sense of community that exists among the 1st- and 2nd-year students and am eager to learn alongside our faculty and my cohort.”

Julia completed her bachelor’s degree at Michigan Technological University where they majored in Scientific and Technical Communications. As a graduate student in Student Affairs Administration, Julia is interested in learning how different systems of higher education affect students, particularly in the areas of mental health and accessibility. She wants to find the best resources to support students while they pursue their degree, but also wants to makes sure that she knows how to continuously evaluate the effectiveness of those resources.

As a second-year student in the SAA MA Program, Julia brings their experiences working in Residence Education and Housing Services as a Senior Resident Assistant and in her undergraduate institution’s Writing Center as a Learning Center Coach. They have also served with several student organizations with a variety of missions including advocating for housing equity, mental health and well-being, and LGBTQIA+ safe spaces. During her time in the program, Julia holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Writing Center as a Graduate Coordinator.

Julia is looking forward to exploring the many career options a degree in Student Affairs Administration offers. They recently visited South Korea with their study abroad program and has developed an interest in supporting study abroad students. She is also interested in the student support and accountability work done by dean of student offices, citing the impactful experiences she has had with student affairs professionals in similar positions.

Why did Julia choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA Program at MSU because of the faculty and the community. I remember feeling so supported by the SAA program’s personnel throughout the application process, and I got the sense there was a strong community here.”

Orville earned his bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Ethnic Studies from the University of Utah. Orville is excited to be a second-year student in the SAA MA Program. He is pursuing his graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration to learn how he can best serve tribal communities and underrepresented students.

As a second-year student, Orville brings to the program his significant experience supporting and advocating for students from marginalized communities as a Multicultural Student Success Coordinator at the community college level and as a College Admissions Coach for the American Indian College Fund. Orville is an active member of NASPA, and has also been a member of ACPA, the National College Attainment Network (NCAN), and the National Indian Education Association (NIEA). He currently holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Writing Center.

Orville hopes to grow and learn at various higher education institutions in his future career as a student affairs professional. He aspires to continue serving first-generation and underrepresented students and eventually take on leadership positions within the field.

Why did Orville choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I knew that I could grow and learn as a student affairs educator. I felt very supported during the graduate school application process. Additionally, the curriculum supported my goals of making higher education accessible for underrepresented and first-generation students.”

Juliann earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Merced where she majored in Psychology and minored in Natural Sciences Education. She decided to pursue her graduate education in Student Affairs Administration to prepare her to provide a support system to all students and aid them in achieving their dream careers. Juliann is aware of the many education and career preparation paths one may take to meet their goals and she wants to create an environment where students do not feel pressured to take only one path to get there.

Juliann is a second-year student bringing to the SAA MA Program her excellent experiences in tutoring, financial aid, orientation leadership, mentorship, alumna relationships, residence education and housing services, and Chicano/Hispanic student services. Juliann holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Student Support and Accountability where she assists with student conduct hearings.

Juliann aspires to one day be a dean of students. In the meantime, she plans to support and uplift students and is open to where that work leads to in her future career as a student affairs professional.

Why did Juliann choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because the faculty and staff made me feel welcomed and supported. Upon interacting with the faculty and staff, I felt as though the SAA was a family that would guide and support me to achieve my goals.”

Lia is an MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science and Secondary Education. She is pursuing her graduate education in Student Affairs Administration to help her advance in her student affairs career so that she can continue to support and work with non-traditional college students. Lia identifies as a military spouse and finds working with veterans and other non-traditional students incredibly rewarding. She is excited to learn more about how to support this student population.

As a second-year student, Lia is bringing to the SAA MA Program incredible experience working with military-affiliated college students, adult learners, and other non-traditional students. She has additional experience with teaching/learning in the United States and abroad. Lia holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Writing Center.

As a military spouse and education advisor, Lia has seen the difference that accessing and understanding how higher education works can impact a student. She would like to continue to work with military students and other non-traditional students in tandem with her husband’s military career advancement.

Why did Lia choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program because it was the best way for me to meet my professional and personal goals.”

Katie is a recent MSU alum and earned her bachelor’s degree in Global and International Studies with a focus on International Development. She also minored in Environment and Health as well as Peace and Justice Studies. Katie describes student affairs work as “home.” Her experiences working as a resident assistant as well as coordinating student travel and managing camps made her fall in love with strengthening the student experience. Katie is passionate about ensuring that campus feels like an inclusive community for students to thrive both personally and academically.

As a second-year student, Katie brings to the SAA MA Program her many excellent experiences working in residence education & housing services as well as commercial residence support, programming and coordination, leadership, and teaching English as a foreign language. She holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Writing Center where she is gaining experience in academic student support services. Outside of student affairs, Katie is an avid reader, concert-goer, baseball fan, and traveler. She is currently on a quest to visit all 50 states and all 30 MLB ballparks, which she tries to incorporate into any student affairs opportunities that come her way.

Katie hopes that her graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration will complement her bachelor’s degree in Global and International Studies by attaining additional experience in international student services, education abroad programming, residence life, community engagement, and advising. Post-degree, Katie aspires to experience student affairs in different parts of the country. She has a goal of working overseas eventually for American universities and wants to develop a diverse set of experiences in various departments that will aid in her career advancement and education.

Why did Katie choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because I wanted to continue my education at the institution that helped develop my passion for student affairs. With endless opportunities to work in different functional areas, learn from experts in the field, and build community within a cohort, I was confident the SAA MA program would help me discover where I most belonged in higher education.”

Will earned his bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University where he majored in Strategic Communications and minored in both Social Psychology and Higher Education Student Affairs. Having experience struggling to find his own path in life, Will wants to support students in a variety of ways and believes that pursuing his SAA MA degree will help him reach his career goals.

Will is a second-year student in the SAA MA Program and holds a graduate assistantship with Residence Education & Housing Services (REHS) as an Assistant Community Director. Before beginning the program, Will served as a college guide with AmeriCorps where he gained experience in mentoring and advising as well as outreach development. Will is also bringing the SAA MA Program his experiences in residence life and event planning.

Will’s ultimate career goal is to become a president or provost of a university, because he wants to be in a position where students and faculty can come to him with their needs/concerns and he will be “the person” to best help them.

“I don’t want to hand something off to someone higher than me and hope that their concerns are addressed – I want to address them.”

Will finds one of the most important things in life is to find at least one reason to smile every day and to the be the reason that at least one other person smiles every day as well.

Elisa completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of California Merced where she majored in Political Science. She decided to pursue her graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration to continue learning about educational policies that impact post-secondary education and further enhance student need programs into higher retention rates amongst students of color. Elisa wants to further educate herself in the foundation of higher education to better serve student success initiatives across various communities.

In her second year as an SAA student, Elisa holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Honors College where she works as an Admissions Associate, assisting with admissions recruitment and programming. Elisa brings to the SAA MA Program her experience in college advising, mentoring, leadership, orientation programming, and residence life. She has over four years of working in nonprofit organizations, higher education, college readiness, and after-school programming.

In her career, Elisa plans to continue dismantling barriers amongst first-generation college students and students of color by curating new initiatives that assist students in their higher education journeys.

Why did Elisa choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I wanted to experience a different cultural environment from my own. Taking the leapt of faith has provided me an abundance of experiences and lessons that enhanced my skills a as student affairs educator.”

Ken completed his bachelor’s degree at Central Michigan University where he pursued a double major in German and Political Science: International Relations and minored in History. Ken decided to pursue his graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration because of his love of working with students and working in a university setting. His experience as an international student and witnessing his wife’s experience as an international student has instilled in him a specific interest in international student experiences in both the U.S. and abroad.

Ken is a second-year student who brings to the SAA MA Program his significant experience serving and supporting international and domestic graduate teaching assistant preparation programs with MSU’s Graduate School, tutoring both English and German, assessment and evaluation, as well as residence support. Ken holds a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) as an Assistant Community Director (ACD).

Ken is still at a point where he is interested in exploring the many directions that a career in student affairs can take him. That said, he hopes to continue working in and gain additional experience in areas of support for international students as well as academic advising.

Shaina completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Michigan where she majored in Sociology and minored in Community Action Social Change. She decided to complete her graduate education in Student Affairs Administration to gain a further perspective of higher education and student affairs from a social, historical, and multicultural perspective. The SAA MA Program will give Shaina the opportunity to build her knowledge and skills from past experiences in the classroom with a cohort of others who will continue to challenge and support her everyday.

As a second-year SAA student, Shaina brings to the program many excellent experiences, including admissions counseling, workshop development and coordination, course facilitation, learning and development programming, residence support, and language tutoring. She holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Student Success in the College of Social Sciences where she works in student support.

As a first-generation college student, Shaina has lived and seen that support through the college journey provides ample growth opportunities for confidence, problem-solving, and bringing lifelong memories. Shaina would love to work in career services to help empower students for their future in their own field.

Why did Shaina choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because it offered an extensive array of experiences! I found my passion for higher education at my undergrad institution after working in career services and admissions, and now want to expand my horizons at a new institution and professors.”

Josh earned his bachelor’s degree from DeSales University in Center Valley, Pennsylvania where he majored in History and completed a certificate for Education in Social Studies. His four years working in various functional areas of student affairs inspired his love for the field. Student affairs truly makes Josh happy, and he is excited to be pursuing his graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration and begin his professional journey.

As a second-year student, Josh brings to the SAA MA Program his remarkable experiences supporting students and his community. Josh has knowledge and skills in mentoring, career development and advising, residence life, programming, event planning, and admissions. He demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion through his several years of service with the Pennsylvania Eastern Special Olympics Committee. Josh holds a graduate assistantship with the Office of Graduate Student Development where he works with graduate students to help develop their career documents and skills. Currently, Josh is the president of the Student Affairs Graduate Association (SAGA).

Inspired by his work in career services at his alma mater, Josh aspires to begin his professional journey in career services and development, eventually rising to the executive director role.

Why did Josh choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“The cohort was genuinely very exciting to be a part of, the amazing faculty and staff, high quality of classes, and the assistantship benefits were unmatched.”

Hannah completed her bachelor’s degree at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana where she majored in marketing. Hannah served as a resident assistant in undergrad and fell in love with student affairs and residence life. Her experience as an RA and her leadership roles in other student organizations gave Hannah the passion for leading and helping other students navigate such an impactful time in their lives.

Hannah brings significant knowledge and skills to the SAA MA Program, including experience with conduct, communication, programming and event planning, leadership, and community building. Hannah holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Admissions. In her role, Hannah presents to prospective students and their families, meets with students and families 1:1 to answer questions about the application process/MSU in general, attends college fairs and does high school visits, helps to plan & facilitate large-scale events (admitted students day, DEI yield programs, etc.), and reads application files.

Why did Hannah choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“After working as a resident assistant, I fell in love with helping students and working in the field of higher education. I wanted to learn more so that I could be a better resource for students, and after SPD I knew that the SAA program (and MSU) was the best place for me to do that!”

Matt completed their bachelor’s degree at the University of Tennessee Knoxville where they majored in Industrial Engineering. Matt had a number of mentors in the field of student affairs who connected them to their passions. Matt wants to do the same to help students connect to their own futures.

As a second-year student, Matt brings their excellent experience in residence life as well as their skills in leadership, training and development, programming, and student support to the SAA MA Program. Matt holds a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) in Residential Learning Programs. In addition to their work in student affairs, Matt identifies as a “dog dad” and also enjoys water polo, reality TV, and casual gaming.

Post-grad, Matt aspires to work in programs that focus on first-year experiences, orientation, leadership development, service learning, and DEI work. They are most interested in student-facing roles for their future.

Why did Matt choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program at MSU because, during my grad school search, the program made me feel like they were lucky to have me, not the other way around. Plus my assistantship offer was a very exciting one that I could not pass up!”

Justice completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana where he majored in Mathematics Education. His interest in pursuing graduate education in Student Affairs Administration is to obtain deeper knowledge, and skills in students’ career guidance service, academic coaching service, students’ conduct, and the general welfare of students in higher learning institutions. Justice hopes to develop the skills needed to solve contemporary student affairs issues.

As a second-year SAA student, Justice brings to the program his impressive six years of experience working as an Assistant Head Teacher and a guidance counselor with the Ghana Education Service. Through this work, he has developed skills in education administration and student support services. Justice holds a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) in Training and Learning Development where he will gain skills in website development, creating e-learning modules, accessibility and access analysis, data analysis, as well as program evaluation.

Justice aspires to bring out the best in every student, regardless of their individual socioeconomic background. He has an interest in guiding international and domestic students to achieve academic success in their chosen field of study through academic success coaching, career guidance, and welfare-related services. Justice’s ultimate goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in Higher Education to broaden his academic prospects in student affairs and higher education.

Why did Justice choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the Student Affairs Administration program at Michigan State University for a variety of compelling reasons that align with my personal and professional goals.
The program’s comprehensive curriculum and diverse range of courses were particularly appealing when I was making a graduate school decision as an international student. I saw that the program would provide me with a solid foundation in key areas of student affairs administration such as student development theory, multicultural competence, leadership, and administration. Also, the theory-to-practice approach to learning ensured that I would gain a well-rounded skill set crucial for effectively supporting and guiding students in a university setting.”

Dallin earned his bachelor’s degree from Utah State University with a major in International Studies emphasizing in Peoples and Nations and double minors in Spanish and Organizational Communication. Dallin developed a passion for higher education through the numerous positions he held in undergrad and through his work with student organizations. His job as an academic advisor solidified his decision to pursue a graduate degree in Student Affairs Administration to help his professional and career development.

Dallin is a second-year student and holds a graduate assistantship with MSU’s Office of Spartan Experiences in Campus Programs and Student Government. Dallin brings to the SAA MA Program his professional experience as an academic advisor as well as his numerous undergraduate experiences in peer advising and peer mentoring, orientation leadership, programming, and event coordination.

Dallin believes that the first-year experience is crucial to a student’s development and success, where they develop an identity as a college student, adult, and new professional. He hopes to pursue a career where he can work with students during their transition to the first year of college.

Why did Dallin choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I chose the SAA MA program because of its cohort model, its high level of professionalism and quality of education, and to experience a new part of the country.”

Audrey completed her bachelor’s degree at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan where she majored in History and minored in Communications. Audrey has been passionate about education and student leadership since she was a kid, and stumbling into the field of student affairs felt like her perfect match. During her time in the SAA program, Audrey hopes to better understand student development, leadership styles, and higher education as a whole.

Audrey is a second-year student and brings to the SAA MA Program her extensive experience with orientation, first-year and peer advising, academic success coaching, working with parents and families, mentoring, as well as leadership, and teaching and learning. Audrey holds a graduate assistantship with Residence Education and Housing Services (REHS) in Outreach where she will develop skills in recruitment, training, assessment, program coordination, supervision, and assessment.

Audrey has a strong interest in student-athlete experiences, honors programs, and working with prospective/new students, which she hopes to continue to do in her professional career. She is looking forward to learning about herself, the field of higher education, and where her skills and passions align with the field.

Why did Audrey choose the SAA MA Program at MSU?
“I felt like the faculty and staff truly cared about my experience and my success. The culture of teamwork and authenticity stood out to me.”