With the start of a new year at the Gatton Academy comes several new personalities to the staff. We are excited about these passionate and dedicated individuals who have joined our team. They come to us from different parts of the country with a host of varied experiences. Over the last few weeks, the staff has had a chance to get to know each other. It’s now your chance to meet the new faces behind the Academy. Each day this week, we’ll profile a new staff member.
Academy Avatars sat down with each new staff member to post ten questions in hopes of getting to know them better. Avatars came up with five questions that we asked each person. Each Avatar also posed five unique questions of their own choosing to ask as well.
Up first is Melissa Schultz, the Assistant Coordinator: Residence Life.
Interview by Ryne Weiss, Academy Avatar
1. Why did you decide to join the Gatton Academy staff?
I decided to join the Academy because of the unique experience of working with gifted students. Once I interviewed with the academy staff, I knew it would be a good fit because of the dedication and passion the staff exhibited for the students. I’m also excited to have an experience different than my past experiences of working with traditional aged college students–I hope to focus on providing learning opportunities outside the classroom to bring education to life!
2. Where did you attend college and what subjects did you study?
I did my undergraduate work at Michigan State University. I have a Bachelor’s of Science in Apparel and Textile Design with minors in Applied Arts, Interior Design, and Business. My Master’s Degreee is in Higher Education and Administration.
3. What are you looking forward to the most about the coming school year?
I am most looking forward to meeting and getting to know each student, and being a resource for those students, in terms of not only providing opportunities for education and community service but also in providing help in their transition to the Academy.
4. What do you think makes the Gatton Academy a unique educational experience?
I think that it is the ultimate living and learning experience. Students living at the academy experience similar classes and have opportunities to participate in activities together outside of the classroom. This togethernness makes the Academy a true community; with the focus being on math and science, it gives students an opportunity to explore their interests with their peers and in an in-depth way.
5. What contributions do you hope to make to life at the Gatton Academy?
I come to the Academy with four years experience in residential life. I am an involved professional in student affairs, and I believe these expereinces have prepared me to bring intentional and exciting programs that adhere to the mission of the academy. I am genuinely interested in being a resource to help foster students’ success, development and enjoyment at the Academy.
6. What is your favorite CD, movie, and book?
Supply and Demand by Amos Lee is my favorite CD. My favorite book is Composing a Life by Mary Katherine Bateson. My favorite movie is Sleepless in Seattle.
7. If you were only allowed to bring one personal item to the Academy, what would it be?
It would have to be my laptop; it keeps me connected to all the important people in my life.
8. If you and the Academy staff were trapped on an island, who would you eat and why?
(shock and horror) Sue, because she just volunteered.
9. If you and the Academy were a famous couple, who would you be and why?
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie because they are fierce philanthropists, and they seem to be dedicated to bringing active young citizens into the world…. and I am not very up to date with pop culture, they are the first famous couple to come to mind. (laughs)
10. Is the Academy more like a crucible or the TV show The Real World?
Based on what I’ve seen so far, I’ll go with The Real World! (laughs)