April is Advisor Appreciation Month, and April 19th is Advisor Appreciation Day! In the Pavlis Honors College, we’re fortunate to have four exceptional component advisors, each contributing significantly to our program. As we honor Advisor Appreciation Month, let’s shine a spotlight on these remarkable individuals and acknowledge their invaluable contributions to our Pavlis community.
Chris Hohnholt
Chris Hohnholt is currently the advisor for the Leadership/Mentorship component and oversees the Undergraduate Research and Scholarship Symposium. He also advises the Project Experience during the summer months. Chris Hohnholt has been working at Michigan Tech for 15 years.
When asked about the Leadership/Mentorship component, Chris shares “It’s an opportunity for students to give back while learning that things don’t always go as planned.”
One of Chris’ favorite Michigan Tech opportunities is the CFRES Earn and Learn Assistantships. He is also very passionate about human development.
Fun Fact! Chris enjoys the serenity of beekeeping.
Advisor, Laura Fiss
Dr. Laura Kasson Fiss
Laura Fiss currently advises for the Project Experience component. She has been working at Michigan Tech for ten years. When asked why she thinks the Project Experience component is valuable to students, Laura says “Students work on a project and tell its story. The project doesn’t have to be finished at the end of the component experience. The value usually comes in the things the students learn about themselves and about the process of working on a project – things like communication with stakeholders, how to define the scope of a project, how to modify goals and expectations, and how to work with other people on a team.”
Laura’s favorite Tech Tradition is the snow statues. She is also very passionate about Victorian literature, musical theater, and Victorian musical theater.
Fun Fact! Laura is currently teaching herself how to play guitar!
“Time is an illusion. Lunchtime doubly so.” – Douglas Adams
Academic Enhancement
Advisor, Marika Seigel
Dr. Marika Seigel
Marika Seigel currently advises the Academic Enhancement component and is the Dean of the Pavlis Honors College. She has been working at Michigan Tech for 19 years. Before becoming the Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education, she was a faculty member in the Humanities department, teaching writing and rhetoric courses.
Marika advises the Academic Enhancement component. When describing her component, she states “The Academic Enhancement component encourages you to explore an area of interest outside your major: this could be a professional interest or personal interest. The purpose of the component is to encourage you to explore areas that you are curious about, that intrigue you, and that help you to become more well-rounded. You could take a minor for this component, or you could take a cluster of related courses (for example, language or art courses). You can also use it to explore opportunities to educate yourself outside of coursework; for example, doing EMT training or taking cooking classes.”
Marika’s favorite Tech Tradition is Winter Carnival. She is also very passionate about making sure that every student feels welcome in the Pavlis Honors College and at Michigan Tech.
Fun Fact! Marika once attended “Elf School” in Reykjavik, Iceland. She recommends their pancakes.
“Nobody puts Baby is a corner.” – Johnny Castle
Dr. Darnishia Morris
Darnishia Morris currently advises the Immersion Experience component and oversees the Global and Community Engagement Conference. She has been working at Michigan Tech since 2005 and was a student here between 1992 and 1998.
When explaining the importance of her component, she says “The most valuable aspect of the Immersion Component is the opportunity to ‘test drive’ or prototype ANY aspect of your life or future you’d like to explore.”
Dar’s favorite Tech Tradition is the Parade of Nations – “Hands down.” Dar is passionate about serving others, especially Tweens.
Fun Fact! Dar is a hardcore foodie, Bruno Mars fan, and New Edition fan.
“Speak without being offensive. Listen without being defensive. And always leave your opponent with their dignity.” – Andrew Young
As we celebrate Advisor Appreciation Month, let’s take a moment to reflect on the profound impact our advisors have on our college experience. They are not only here to guide us through component selections and academic challenges but also to offer invaluable advice, support, and encouragement as we navigate the complexities of college life. Whether it’s helping us discover our passions, providing career guidance, or simply lending a compassionate ear, our advisors play a crucial role in our journey toward personal and academic fulfillment. So, to all the college students out there, remember to take advantage of their wisdom, seek their guidance, and don’t forget to express your gratitude for their unwavering dedication to your success. After all, having a supportive advisor by your side can truly make all the difference in your college experience.
Thank you, Advisors!