Ryan King

Job Title:

Peer Adviser

Joined the L&S Office of Undergraduate Advising in:

August 2009

What is your approach to advising?

My general approach to advising is sharing. I'm a peer. Therefore I know what its like to go to college during a time of budget crises and all-around uncertainty. It's my goal to hear your concerns and then share what stories, strategies, tips and tricks I've used to negotiate the Berkeley administration and campus. I want each student that approaches me to know that they are a valued member of the campus community and encourage you to share your feedback and questions.

Education:

BA, History and Political Science, University of California, Berkeley, Fall 2010

How did you get here?

I transferred from Cosumnes River College in Sacramento, CA. I worked a 30-hour a week job at a Credit Union as a loans and new accounts officer while attending community college full-time.

What's your favorite part of your job?

So far, I'd have to say that I really enjoy interacting with the student body. I have a great time listening to stories and calming frayed nerves over the sometimes-confusing college requirements. I also really like connecting with fellow transfer students. Of course, freshmen are great too!

Most unusual job you ever had?

I can't say that I ever had an unusual job; I can say that I had a job for an unusual amount of time. I was once employed with Blockbuster for 4 hours. I went to the store, signed the paperwork, got home, and was offered a job with a Credit Union. Needless to say, my Blockbuster employment ended shortly after that phone call.

Best class you ever took:

Two courses have stuck out to me during my career at Cal. Public Policy 103, "Wealth and Poverty," is one of the most informative classes on campus. Professor Reich is dynamic and genuinely cares about us, the students. The other course I would strongly encourage any student to take is a course on Political Representation in India (Political Science 145A) with Professor Chhibber. Chhibber is a friendly and thoughtful lecturer. The class taught me a great deal about India and fostered a new area of academic interest for me personally.

About me:

I came to Cal last year as a transfer student and I am now entering my senior year. I originally hail from Elk Grove, CA (near Sacramento). I'm a double major in History and Political Science and no, I do not have any plans on going to Law School. Instead, I have chosen to take, as Professor Chhibber says; "a vow of poverty," and become an academic. It is my long-term goal to become a community college instructor. I have a passion for learning and I love talking politics. In my spare time, I enjoy catching a movie, reading and spending as much time as possible with friends.

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

Regardless of whether it's 4 years or 2 years on the Berkeley campus, I encourage every student to do things outside of their comfort zone. Take ballroom dancing, join a club, sit down at the dining commons and interact with someone you don't know. Remember that we are all in this together, and the more we contribute to a sense of community, the more dynamic and vibrant our campus will become! In addition, whether it is a general question or just a desire to strike up a conversation with someone, I hope you'll take a moment over the coming year and interact with one of my fellow peer advisers or myself. We are here for you!