Susan Cass

Name:

Susan Cass

Job Title:

Analyst/Adviser

Joined the L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising in:

I joined the office in September of 2005.

What is your approach to advising?

I see my role as multifaceted. As a representative of the faculty, I am here to clarify requirements and policies. As a staff member of the campus community, I service as a guide to help navigate and inform students about all of the diverse and amazing learning opportunities the campus has to offer. Finally, as a professional in the field of advising I help students realize their full potential as members of the Cal community... and beyond!

Education:

Master of Arts
Higher Education Administration and Student Development
Boston College, June 1996

Bachelor of Arts, English
California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, June 1991

How did you get here?

I started out at Stanford coordinating orientation as well as supporting the resident adviser hiring and training programs. I went on to earn my master's in Boston and then returned west to work as a resident hall director at the University of Washington. After that position, I served as an admissions officer at Pitzer College in Southern California. Finally, I came to Cal and worked as a major adviser for Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology in the College of Natural Resources before joining the College of Letters and Science.

What's your favorite part of your job?

I believe in the role education - and particularly the liberal arts education - plays in improving individuals and society. I like being around folks that are curious, thoughtful and informed.

Most unusual job you ever had:

As a kid, I was a dog walker in my neighborhood.

What's the best class you've ever taken?

As an undergraduate I took a course on American Thought. We read essays, historical accounts, philosophy, literature. I remember the professor as very engaging and I loved the interdisciplinary approach to the topic.

About me:

Quilting, Cooking (eating too), Walking, Pastoral Ministry, Volunteering, Being an Aunt!

What advice do you have for L&S students in general?

Having worked on several campuses large and small, I can tell you that the most successful students pursue their interests passionately and don't wait for opportunities to come to them. They take initiative and create a community of peers, staff and faculty to guide them along the way. They are genuinely invested in campus life. It will take a bit of courage on your part, but I think you'll find as you step out and keep yourself open to growth and change a great adventure awaits you.