Nurturing Academic Successes and Mentorship: Insights from an Education Advisor 

In this Q&A session, Sarah Lison, an experienced undergraduate program advisor in the Faculty of Education, shares her strategies for personalized support, cultivating mentorship relationships, and maximizing students’ education experience.

Q: Can you share a memorable experience or success story of guiding a student through their academic journey?

A: One of my most rewarding experiences was working with a student who was apprehensive about taking a Quantitative course. They perceived math as one of their weaker subjects and had concerns about struggling in the course. Together, we discovered a Quantitative course specifically designed to support students with math anxieties.  

As we reviewed the course description, the student’s entire demeanour changed. They were no longer thinking about their previous challenges, but rather how, by taking this course, they could support students like themselves in approaching math without fear. Enrolling became an opportunity for the student to not only improve their own mathematical abilities but also contribute to a supportive learning community. 

This is the incredible privilege of working with our Education students: not only supporting students in reaching their personal academic goals but also knowing that they will, in turn, enable the next generation of students.

Q: What unique strategies or approaches do you employ to provide personalized support and guidance to students, ensuring their academic success? 

A: My priority is to understand students’ motivations and aspirations, regardless of where they are in their university journey. By uncovering their deeper goals and challenges, I can tailor my guidance to their specific needs. Cultivating an open, ongoing relationship with students is vital in providing the support they need throughout their academic journey.

Q: How do you foster a positive and supportive mentorship relationship with your students, and how has this contributed to their overall growth and development?  

A: Creating a supportive space where students can openly share their concerns, dreams, and aspirations is key. This allows me to provide tailored guidance, addressing both immediate academic questions and personal goals. Mentorship is reciprocal; students teach me how to best support them, while I provide information to help them on their journey.

Our students are driven and passionate about making real change in the world, and it is incredible to play even a small role in getting them there.

Q: Tell us more about what advisors do to support Education students both academically and personally. 

A: I work closely with students to ensure they have a clear understanding of program requirements, course sequencing and any additional considerations needed to pursue their goals. I help them navigate their academic programs, selecting courses that align with their interests and aspirations. I guide on academic planning, helping them create a roadmap for their program to ensure they stay on track toward graduation. 

Beyond academic advice, I encourage students to become active members of the Faculty of Education and SFU communities through student organizations, clubs, and volunteer opportunities. I guide them to resources on campus that can enhance their personal development, such as social events, wellness programs and professional development workshops. It's about helping them make the most of their university experience beyond the classroom

Q: When a student graduates from undergraduate Studies in Education, do you find out what happens at the end of their journey?   

A: One of the best things about my role is that I often encounter the students I have worked with again. Some join or rejoin the Faculty of Education as they begin their teacher education journey and I continue working with the undergraduate advising team on their summer course selection, as well as optionally completing the requirements of the Bachelor of Education as a second degree.  

Even beyond teacher education, I continue to see former undergraduate students in our hallways as they begin new academic journeys within our professional diplomas or graduate programs. Sometimes, I even meet former students who have come back to teach in our programs as an instructor or Faculty Associate. Education is truly a never-ending journey, and our programs from undergraduate all the way to graduate degrees demonstrate this perfectly.

Q: As Convocation approaches, what advice do you have for graduating students to make the most of their educational experience?  

A: Firstly, acknowledge all the hard work and dedication you put into getting to this point! You have made it through countless hours of studying, late nights of writing papers and overcoming challenges along the way. Take a moment to reflect on your journey and celebrate your achievements with your peers and instructors who will be with celebrating alongside you. You deserve it!

As you embark on your next chapter, I hope you experience a continued passion for learning. Education is a dynamic field that requires ongoing reflection and development. Embrace a lifelong learning mindset and stay curious about the world and your place in it.