Sarah Vanden Heuvel ’08 serves as assistant director of student services and focuses on helping students with their financial aid needs. While she has been part of the The University of Olivet staff for 10 years, she joined the OC family during her own journey as a student and even held a role in the student services office. Realizing the strong impact she could have on students, Sarah became a financial aid officer shortly after her graduation. Today, she is still driven to serve the college, helping to create a positive college experience for all students.
Why do you love The University of Olivet?
I love The University of Olivet because of the amazing people that come with it. From faculty to staff to volunteers, they all share the same family mentality. The support and love I get from the people I work with goes beyond words.
What is your favorite memory from your time at OC?
My favorite memories at The University of Olivet come when we create different theme days and dress up for special occasions or to show our school spirit. We do it to remind students to have fun, relax and enjoy what they are doing.
What’s the average day in your role, or some of the unique things you are responsible for?
I am responsible for awarding financial aid to one-third of the alphabet, processing all loans, processing all federal and state aid, and other tasks relating to financial aid, the business office, registration and work study needs. On any given day, I could see a student about their financial aid, making a payment on their account, scheduling classes, signing a work study contract or many other things. I am also the president of the Staff Senate, and we meet bi-weekly to address staff concerns and make recommendations to the president and cabinet on behalf of the staff.
Why do you encourage students to attend OC?
The personal attention a student gets while attending The University of Olivet is unparalleled. The one-on-one support they will receive from not only their professors, but also their academic and financial advisers is beyond what they could expect somewhere else. The people at The University of Olivet truly care for each other.
What do you look forward to in your role?
I always look forward to getting to know new Comets. It is nice to see fresh faces and meet with new families.
What advice do you share with students?
If you are unsure about something, ask someone. There are plenty of people at The University of Olivet that can help answer your questions or point you in the right direction. Don’t ever feel like your question is dumb or not worth asking.
What is an interesting or little known fact about yourself?
I have been a certified Michigan High School Athletic Association basketball and softball official for the last 14 years.
Learn more about becoming a Comet by attending an upcoming admissions event or visiting campus. You’ll get to connect with the admissions team, coaches, professors, current students and the outstanding student services staff. Contact the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu for questions.