Amy Brandau, academic adviser, and her work with ag business and economics undergrad students, was recently featured in STORIES magazine.
As an adviser in the Department of Economics, she uses her passion for working with college-age students to help economics and agricultural business majors navigate their Iowa State experience.
“I get to work with students the entire time they’re here, which is really fun, because I get to watch them mature, grow up and go on to do great things,” she says.
Brandau advises 250 sophomores, juniors and seniors—about 80 of them new to her this year.
“It’s only overwhelming at registration time, when I meet with students,” she says. “I feel strongly about meeting with all of them individually, so I can get to know them and be the best adviser.”
Students are required to meet with her once per semester, but at least half will visit with her multiple times.
“I tell my students I’m here so they don’t need to panic or lay awake at night and worry. They should stop in and we’ll figure out a problem together; sometimes just talking will help solve it.”
Conversations take place not only in her office, but also via email, at Agricultural Business Club meetings and even on sidewalks around campus. Questions range from majors and minors, to career paths, internships and graduation tracks.
“She’s always willing to meet with me—whether it’s about school, jobs or just to catch up,” says agricultural business senior Jessica Manthe. “She’s made me feel confident in my abilities and has helped calm me down numerous times when things got tough.”
Read the STORIES article.