David Reitan is an academic advisor in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences’ Office of Student Success. David earned his bachelor’s in Sociology from Ohio Wesleyan University and his master’s in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University.
What made you decide to get into this field? Is there one specific moment that inspired your career path?
“I thoroughly enjoyed my college experience and thought working for a university would be a great career option. While completing my master’s degree at Bowling Green State University, I had practicum advising students who were still exploring their academic interests and I loved it! When I left BGSU, I concentrated my job search in academic advising because I knew this occupation had such great potential in serving students.”
Why did you choose to work at Oregon State/CPHHS?
“Of all the interviews I had during my job search, the conversations I had with PHHS staff were the most genuine and engaging. I felt like I was able to make a true connection with the OSU folks and could tell they enjoyed their work. Since I arrived here, that feeling continues to be affirmed.”
What is your favorite part about working as an academic advisor?
“I enjoy being able to provide individualized service for my students. Each student has unique interests and challenges to face, and being able to have a direct impact in helping them overcome an obstacle or identify an opportunity is very satisfying. Even if it’s just helping a student decide on which class to take, I know that my assistance has played a role in getting them to the next step.”
What is your favorite part about working in the Office of Student Success?
“Every person within the Office of Student Success is committed to the success of their students and coworkers. I’ve never before worked with such a welcoming, supportive group of people. It feels reassuring to come into a space knowing I can go to anyone with questions or ideas on how to better address students’ inquiries.”
What do you believe is your greatest accomplishment in your career so far?
“While I’m still very new to the field, one thing I’m quite proud of is that two classmates and I presented our findings for an assessment project at the ACPA national convention in Columbus, Ohio, this past March. My team interviewed staff members across a variety of functional areas to see how knowledgeable they were in addressing the needs of students with dependent children. Assessment is a passion of mine, and getting to present our findings at a national conference was quite gratifying.”
How do you strive to affect people’s lives with your work?
“I like getting involved in a variety of projects so that my impact is diversified. There’s always something else we can be doing to meet the needs of our students, and having the chance to explore those opportunities is something I look forward to during my time at OSU.”
What is one surprising thing about you that not many people know?
“That I’m the biggest Rubblebucket fan you’ll ever meet. This band is earth shattering, and I’ll devote entire hours to explaining why.”
What are your favorite activities outside of work?
“Outside of work, you’ll find me riding my bike, going on trail runs or volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. You can’t chuck a rock in this town without hitting a bike path or someone who also enjoys the outdoors, and that’s something I’ve really come to enjoy in my short time being here.”