Susan Schalge, Department of Anthropology

Hometown

• Akron, NY

Schools

• Michigan State University (BA)
• University of Minnesota (MA and PhD)

Things we can talk about

We can discuss just about anything. Majors, careers, qualitative research, fears or frustrations about college, culture shock, how to use your strengths as a student, grad school, managing imposter syndrome, study/living abroad, etc.

I am available for

• Phone calls
• Email conversations
• Zoom calls
• Personal meetings in office or for coffee

Please feel free to contact me and we will figure out a way to have a conversation.

Why I want to be a Maverick Firsts Advocate

I was a first-generation college student. Neither of my parents went to college so I know how hard it can be to figure out how to do college. When I was a student it seemed like everyone else just got it, while I constantly felt like an imposter. There was so much that I didn’t know or understand. Half the time I didn’t know what questions to ask. But, even when I did know the right questions to ask, I was afraid that asking for help would reveal just how much I didn’t belong. I hope that by serving as an advocate, I can provide answers and help other first-gen students find their place and know that they do belong here.

Things I’m connected with that might be of interest to you

I am one of the founding members of Maverick Firsts. I study the culture of higher education and first-generation college student experiences. I love doing research. I always have an active research project going and I enjoy having students participate so feel free to reach out if that sounds like something that would interest you.

Other information about me

I have always loved learning about other cultures and traveling. I have studied and worked abroad. I lived in Tanzania for two years and I speak Swahili (but not as well as I once did).I like all kinds of artistic activities. I paint (poorly) and crochet in my spare time. I also love going to concerts, theater, galleries, museums, etc.