5 Questions with... Kristin Sowden

Today we venture south to the Commonwealth of Virginia to talk with Kristin Sowden from James Madison University!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi! My name is Kristin Sowden and I am a Freshman Advisor at James Madison University.
I grew up in rural New Jersey, where I attended The College of New Jersey and majored in English and Secondary Education. College didn't start out so smoothly for me - I transferred in the middle of my freshman year to TCNJ and struggled for the next two years to feel like I belonged in the community. By sheer luck, I got a job as a Student Ambassador as a Junior and it changed my life. As soon as I adopted my first freshman floor for Welcome Week I was hooked on making a difference in college students' lives.

2. What is your experience in academic advising, higher education, and NACADA?

I am brand new to academic advising and NACADA! I just finished my Masters in May of 2013 from James Madison University in College Student Personnel Administration.  I feel incredibly fortunate to be living the professional life I have always imagined.  

3. Tell us about your session. What can attendees look forward to?

My session is all about the Rookie year in academic advisor – a reflection of it means to be brand new to the game and how to make the most of your first few years! Attendees can  look forward to high energy, great conversation, a little challenge, and lots of fun stories.

4. What do you hope attendees gain from going to your presentation?

I hope attendees walk away with a new network of colleagues to lean on in the beginning of their careers. 

5. What do you hope to personally gain from presenting in Lancaster?

Personally, I am hoping to gain an understanding of what it means to be a part of Region 2! What a great opportunity we have to connect and learn from each other.