Staff Spotlight: Student Success Advisor, Mandy Stacy
0By Alisa B. Coleman
“I am a pep talker, a prayer warrior, and encourager and a tutor,” she said. If you need any of those, you’re in luck, because those words come from Mandy Stacy who works at UPIKE.
Stacy was raised in Grundy, Va., a small town much like Pikeville. When her college search began, she always had her heart set on coming to Pikeville College. She loved the idea of going to a small school and continuing her education at an institution where the professors would know her and she would know them.
“I wanted to have that personal experience. I did, and it was great!” Stacy said.
In 2002, Stacy graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She worked in the local court system for several years and was given an opportunity to come back on work on “the hill” as an admissions counselor. She has worked at the University for the past seven years and has enjoyed every minutes of it.
Stacy currently is employed as the student success counselor, a liaison between the student body and the rest of the campus. She helps students tackle obstacles such as time management, study skills, homesickness, communication with professors, declaring majors, changing majors, developing and changing life plans, and developing confidence. Stacy also works with students on academic probation. The ultimate goal
for Stacy is to help students be successful.
Stacy loves everything about her job. “It is sacred to me. I can’t imagine taking an opportunity like this for granted,” she said.
When it comes to giving students advice, Stacy has a lot to say.
“Ask lots of questions and read the student handbook. Learn your resources and take full advantage of them. Tutoring is free. Sign up. Schedule appointments with professors during their weekly office hours. It is a service not provided at all institutions. Utilize it! Introduce yourself to Administration. They have an open door policy. Attend campus activities. Join organizations. Get involved. Come see us in the Center for Student Success. We have a learning lab, a lounge area and a handful of eager advisors ready and willing to answer your questions,” she said.