Alyssa Stepter serves as Dole Hall director and assistant director of multicultural initiatives at The University of Olivet. Her passion for higher education stems from her own time as a college student when she worked as a resident adviser. Alyssa enjoyed the experience so much she has since shaped her career in the field and enjoyed working with multicultural scholars and athletes following her passion to serve others. As a Comet, Alyssa is excited to continue connecting with students and helping them reach their academic, athletic and personal goals.
Why do you love The University of Olivet?
I love working at The University of Olivet because each and every day I have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students and the The University of Olivet community.
Where does your passion for working with college students stem from?
Service has always been a big part of my life. My parents taught me the importance of helping others and giving back. I received the President’s Volunteer Service Award several years in a row for performing hundreds of hours of community service to the Lansing area. I grew up knowing I wanted to help people. My background, work experience and nearly everything I do fall directly in line with that goal. In each of my current positions at Olivet, I am able to live out that passion every day.
What is the average day in your job, or some of the unique things you are responsible for?
There is no average day as a hall director. Each day is unique from the days before it and those to follow. It’s one aspect of the job I enjoy – there is hardly ever a dull moment. As a hall director, I’m responsible primarily for living out the department motto of being friendly, firm and fair while working to create a family on every floor and a community in every building. In my role as assistant director of multicultural initiatives, I’m responsible for working with auxiliary clubs on campus to help create and support informative, inclusive and enjoyable programming, including events and the overall campus environment.
Why would you encourage students to attend OC?
OC is a great place to learn and a great place to grow. It is a community of students, staff and administrators who genuinely care for and support one another.
What do you look forward to in your role?
I always look forward to engaging with students during Residence Life and Student life events. It is a time to create memories with students, have some fun on campus and be seen outside of my day-to-day roles.
What is the number one piece of advice you share with students?
The number one piece of advice I share with students is that one bad decision, one bad relationship, a negative opinion of you, a bad grade or any mistake you make doesn’t define you. There is always time to bounce back and make changes in your life for the better.
What is an interesting or little known fact about yourself?
Since I was a kid, I’ve always collected greeting cards and seashells. My collection of cards includes birthday cards, Christmas cards and inspirational cards as my favorites. My seashell collection contains shells from beaches all over the world such as Mexico, the Virgin Islands and Hawaii.
Learn more about student life at The University of Olivet by visiting campus or applying. Contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu for questions.