Five in Five

Angelyn Anderson

Angelyn Anderson has been an advisor and member of the Oakton community for 10 years. She earned a B.S. in political science with an English minor at Illinois State University and an M.A. in social justice and community development from Loyola University Chicago. When she isn’t working with students in advising, Angelyn is an instructor in the Humanities and Philosophy and Physical Education Departments here at the College, and she enjoys baking, photography, and knitting.

1. What is most rewarding about your job?
   Being able to provide students with the tools and information they need to make informed decisions that are best for them.
   
   
2. What do you wish students would do to get the most out of their appointments?
   Come prepared with questions, get excited about your goals and accomplishments, and come prepared to participate fully in the discussion!
   
   
3. What advice would you give students regarding the college experience?
   Have more fun! If I could go back to the “freshman college student me” and give her advice, I would say, “embrace the new experiences and friendships.” Those are the aspects of college life that develop you into a well-rounded individual. Find a balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
   
   
4. What would you do or be in your next life?
   A professional rebel rouser. I would be doing something that combined my passion for social justice and travel (preferably somewhere warm) and working with people who are fighting for basic rights and needs to live fulfilling lives.
   
   
5. What is the most unique thing a student has asked or said to you?
   I once had a student ask me if a photograph in my office was of my family and compliment me on the picture. In fact, the student was looking at a ceramic raised-relief African art piece on my desk! Things cleared up when the student put on eye glasses for the remainder of the appointment.