Five in Five

Lyttleton Callender

With a name like Lyttleton Callender (yes, that really is his name -- and it is a long-standing family tradition) you have to do something great like run for political office, go into theater or become a writer (as he is, in fact, doing). Callender, who holds a bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Columbia College Chicago and a master’s degree in higher education from Loyola University Chicago, is the newest addition to Oakton’s Academic Advising Team, but he has already made himself at home. Take some time to get to know the man behind the unique name.

1. What is most rewarding about your job?
   Being able to participate in the student's academic journey.
   
   
2. What do you wish students would do to get the most out of their appointments?
   Come prepared with questions. Nothing deflates an appointment more than sitting and listening to a student’s story for 10 minutes – and then having to say, "so I'm still not sure what brings you in today."
   
   
3. What advice would you give students regarding the college experience?
   Always have a backup plan. It's nice to have your heart set on being a doctor, but if you don't like science you might need to explore other career/degree options.
   
   
4. What would you do or be in your next life?
   I'm still trying to figure out what I want to be in this life.
   
   
5. What is the most unique thing a student has asked or said to you?
   I once had a student say he wanted to be an "anthro-archeologist." We talked a bit more about which one he was really interested in: anthropology or archeology. He's still reviewing his options in both fields.