Mel Barbers

Retention Specialist
Lam Family College of Business

Education
B.S. in Management, University of California, Merced
M.A. in Education- Higher Education, Administration, and Leadership, California State University, Fresno

What is your approach to advising or supporting students?    

Developmental advising- student development is a process; I like to meet students where they are and give them options so they can make their own decisions.

What inspired you to pursue a career in advising?

I love teaching, learning, and meeting new people; advising lets me do all three!

What excites you about helping students at SF State?

Each student comes with unique characteristics and a story to tell.

What's your favorite part of your job?

Being able to play a small part in helping students navigate through college.

What's the best class you've ever taken? 

I took introduction to sociology when I studied abroad in England. I enjoyed talking and learning about culture, relationships, and beliefs.

What's the most unusual job you've ever had?

Not unusual but unique- I used to be a dog sitter for a university president.

What advice do you have for SF Gators?

Be selfish with your time but generous with your knowledge.

About me (likes and hobbies):

I find peace in the outdoors, adrenaline in cycling, and comfort in the sun.