Learn more about Sara
Hometown: Blue Ridge, Indiana
What are your most essential job functions, and what sort of things can students seek your help with?
1. I help students sort through personal problems. Together we try different strategies to improve the situation.
2. I am a resource for staff and faculty who are having trouble with, or are concerned with a student’s well-being.
3. I teach yoga and meditation classes for students, staff, and faculty on campus.
What did you do prior to Hanover?
I worked as an art therapist at a community mental health center.
What do you love about Hanover?
I love the natural and architectural beauty of Hanover. I love the community here. Working at Hanover College as a counselor is essentially a dream job for me. I enjoy working with the college population, and I appreciate the rhythms of the academic calendar.
What’s your favorite place on campus or in Madison?
On campus – the aerobics room in Horner Center; walking on the shady paths; scenic drive; my office. In Madison – Heritage trail; Red Roaster; the Hanover Public Library.
Who was your favorite professor here, and why?
I had many favorite professors at HC. My favorite classes were Personality Theory with Skip Dine Young, and Intro to Art with Leticia Bajuyo. I also got to do a Directed Study on the topic of Prayer with a visiting Theology professor named Chad Quaintance. All of these classes became very important in my vocational evolution.
Where have your (international) travels taken you, and what has been your favorite place?
When I was Junior at HC, I studied abroad in Leuven, Belgium. With Leuven as a temporary home base, I traveled all over Western Europe. It was an incredible experience, and I always encourage students to study abroad if they are interested. In the past year, I’ve traveled to Hawaii, and checked off a bucket list item: “RV Adventure with my family” by visiting Holland, Michigan this summer. Both trips were magical!
If you could visit one place in the world, where would it be – and why?
Hmm… This is super hard. I have been dying to go Quebec City (since reading Louise Penney novels), to Copenhagen (to learn about the country’s distinction as the happiest country), and Japan (for many reasons, such as my appreciation of fine stationery, my interest in mindfulness and meditation practices).
What are some of your interests, and what sort of things keep you busy?
Family life, journaling, reading, riding my sweet new bike, yoga, art, stationery products, coffee, friendship, hiking with my dog, sports and health.
What’s your pump-up song?
“One More Time,” by Daft Punk
Is there anything that you’ve always wanted to do but never have?
Teach an Intro to Art Therapy class to college students
What advice would you give to students who are beginning their college careers?
College is going to change you, and many times change is uncomfortable. Hanover College is worth the money you are paying to be here—if you use your time to build relationships and social capital. Don’t be afraid to utilize your resources on campus. Staff and faculty are really the greatest assets of the HC experience. Also, go outside, appreciate your beautiful surroundings, and regularly engage in the practices that keep you grounded, centered, and clear-thinking.
What’s your favorite way that you get to help/work with students?
I love meeting with students who recognize that they are struggling, and who are open to trying new strategies. I feel especially invigorated when using art in counseling sessions, and witnessing a person begin to see a situation more clearly – and regaining power in areas of their life where they previously felt powerless. I also love teaching yoga classes and sending silent blessings to yoga students as they rest in Savasana. FY101 can be pretty fun, too!
Education
B.A. in psychology, Hanover College (2004)
M.A. in personnel services with an emphasis in art therapy, the University of Louisville
