DUS Alumni Profile: Kurt Doan - Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS)

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Kurt Doan

When did you enter DUS?: Freshman year
How many semesters did you spend in DUS?: Four.
Why did you choose DUS?: I had entered Penn State through the College of Business, but quickly found that I was not interested in the course work. A friend suggested that I meet with someone in DUS and, within a week, I had met with an adviser and decided that this was the best place for me to explore majors.
What resources did you use in your exploratory and decision-making process?: I can't recall the name of my adviser, but he suggested I take an introductory women's studies course. I thoroughly enjoyed the course, particularly the psychology component of the course work. That class prompted me to take an introductory psychology class over the summer and when I returned for my second year, I enrolled for a number of psychology classes.
Did DUS benefit you? If so, how?: My adviser was great! He helped me identify my interests and showed me how to explore those interests through my general education requirements.

What major(s) (and minor(s), if applicable) did you end up choosing?: Psychology
What year did you graduate?: 1995
What extracurricular activities made a difference in your college experience?: I was a Resident Assistant (RA) during my last year of college, and the experience changed my life (and career plans). I took the position to gain experience in counseling and ended up becoming interested in college administration. My supervisor at the time, Cyndi Freeman Fail, was (and continues to be) a wonderful mentor and friend. I have been working in student affairs since 1995 and love my work.
Looking back, would you have done anything differently during your time at Penn State?: I would have been more involved earlier in my career. I enjoyed my leadership experience as a Resident Assistant so much that I wish I had done it my sophomore and junior years as well. Also, I did not have a positive experience with my academic major adviser. Looking back, I should have taken a more active role in finding an adviser that was better suited for me. Finally, I definitely did not take advantage of the excellent resources at the career services center. I've since worked in career services centers and regret not taking full advantage of the expertise and resources that were available to me.

What jobs have you held since graduation?

Program Assistant, Residence Life, Penn State University
Resident Director, Residence Life, Northwest Community College
Hall Director, Residence Life, The University of Arizona
Coordinator for Advertising and Marketing, Residence Life, The Catholic University of America
Assistant Dean of Students, Franklin & Marshall College

What is your current occupation?

Profile Last Updated: July 27, 2007