College of Education Students Share Words of Appreciation, Thanks for Faculty and Staff During Global Advising Week

NC State College of Education students are showing their gratitude for faculty and staff this week in celebration of Global Advising Week, which runs from May 2-8.

In recognition of the week set aside to celebrate the work of advisors, tutors, counselors and coaches around the world, NC State established the “Thank an Advisor” program to recognize outstanding advisors who go the extra mile to shape students through their mentorship and dedication.

Below is a collection of submissions from College of Education students who submitted remarks to recognize faculty and staff who have gone above and beyond.

The following submissions have been edited for clarity. 

Student Emily Chuchta on Assistant Professor Robin Anderson, Ph.D.: “Dr. Anderson, I just wanted to say thank you so much for everything you’ve done for me as both a teacher and advisor. My first year at NC State was really hard, and not at all due to the actual course work. Between family life, personal struggles, work schedules and unforeseen serious and life-threatening health concerns, I don’t know how I would have carried on. Your patience, encouragement and support mean everything to me. This past semester, I would probably have dropped out or taken a semester off if not for your support and level-headed advice and encouragement. Thank you!”

An anonymous student on Director of Advising, Student Success, and Advising Center Amanda Beller: “I want to thank Mrs. Beller for not giving up on me. She has been my rock in the most trying of times, and it even surpassed an academic level. Whatever resources I needed, she pointed me in the right direction. When I needed to cry, vent or laugh, she was there. She is truly the reason why I am graduating in December. I cannot give her enough praises!”

Student Carson Smith on Associate Professor Sarah Carrier, Ph.D.: “Thank you for pushing me and supporting me through everything I did. Working with you was something I looked forward to every year. You made me feel like everything was going to work out, and that you were there for everything I needed. I appreciate you!”

Student Emily Southard on Assistant Teaching Professor Cyndi Edgington, Ph.D.:“Who is awesome? My answer: Dr. Edgington! From the first day of class, I knew you’d be my favorite professor [because of] your passion for math and helping others shine through as you teach us. You’ve really inspired me to want to be a great math teacher who is passionate, understanding, and wants students to truly understand the WHY and HOW of math concepts and how fun it can be. I can tell how hard and how much you work to give us a great education and I can’t thank you enough! Peace out Dr. Edgington! Thanks again for being awesome!”

Student Sarah Elam on Teaching Fellows Director Crystal Espey: “I just wanted to say thank you for being such an amazing advisor this year! This was such a stressful year with COVID and just entering college, trying to figure things out, especially with registering for classes. You were always one call away and answered when I needed help with classes. The Google Doc planner was the best thing ever and allowed me to change my classes around and plan for the future which was so nice and took off so much stress. You really care about all the Teaching Fellows and [the students] you were advising. I’m so happy you were my advisor this year and we got to know each other!! Thank you for always being there with whatever I needed and helping me navigate through this crazy freshman year.”

Student Sophie Moffatt on Associate Teaching Professor Ann Harrington, Ph.D.: “Dr. Harrington, I cannot thank you enough for a wonderful year in elementary education reading! I have learned more than I ever thought I would, especially during a COVID year. Not only that, but I have never felt more seen by a professor. Although I wish we met in person, I am so thankful that I had you during this specific year because you have been so kind, gentle and sensitive to our needs and it means SO much. You truly have made an impact on me and so many others in our program and we are so lucky to have had the honor of being your students. I will miss you next year but will look forward to meeting in person and staying in touch!”

Student Brooke Leithad on Instructor and University-School Partnership Liaison Kari Kuebel: “I can’t thank you enough for all of the support that you have provided me through this crazy semester. From the growth of my class to advocating for me and everything in between, I truly knew that there was always someone on my team. If I were to be asked who I aspire to be more like, my answer would easily be you. If everyone had the kindness, authenticity and active listening that you demonstrate, our world would be a much better place. It has been such an honor to be your supervisee and I cannot thank you enough for believing in me!”

Student Sophie Moffatt on Associate Professor James Minogue, Ph.D.:“Dr. Minogue, thank you so much for such a fun semester! I am so thankful that I had the chance to be in your class even virtually because knowing that you really cared about how we learn and how we are outside of class really meant so much. You never fail to make all of us smile and I have never loved as many assignments as I have in your class this semester. Making a virtual setting so engaging and exciting is something really special and you did a great job! I’m looking forward to working with you in the future and can’t wait to learn more from you!”

An anonymous student on Assistant Teaching Professor Matthew Reynolds, Ph.D.: “Thank you, Dr. Reynolds, for keeping our heads on straight during the pandemic. Were it not for your leadership and direction, we surely would have been lost.”

An anonymous student on Assistant Teaching Professor Kevin Sutton, Ed.D.: “Thanks for being a great advisor and someone who we can always go to for advice.”

Student Layla Allen on Program Manager for Strategic Outreach and Special Initiatives Whitney White, Ph.D.: “Thank you for being my advisor and helping me with all of the questions I have. You’re super encouraging and I know I could really trust you if there was a big issue.”