Name: Melissa Goethals 
Title: Assistant Director, Career Advising
Department: Northwestern Career Advancement
Where are you from? Originally LaGrange Park, IL but now I live in Berwyn
What brought you to Student Affairs? I began my career in higher ed by working with Illinois Student Assistance Commission as an ISACorps member. This role helped me develop a genuine passion for working with students, specifically those that identified as low income or first gen. My first time in career services was while I was still an undergrad at Bradley University, where I was a career peer adviser. I then worked in admissions while earning my Master’s degree and knew I wanted to blend my love of counseling and advising with helping college students achieve their goals. This brought me to career advising and student affairs and I’m so happy to be here!
How many years have you worked in Student Affairs at Northwestern? 1
What’s your favorite part about working in Student Affairs? I love helping students have a “light bulb” or “ah ha” moment. When we are working through their questions or concerns related to their career development, nothing makes me more excited or motivated than when they leave an advising appointment feeling more solidified about what next steps they can take in order to achieve their goals or how they can alleviate their stress.
What recommendation(s) do you have for someone new to Student Affairs? Ask lots of questions and ask for help when you need it. There is such a supportive community of people in this field who want to help you succeed. Know your bandwidth and take care of yourself too.
Who or what has had the greatest influence on your career? When I worked in admission, I had a colleague, Rosa, who was an incredible mentor to me. She is a rockstar adviser and I learned so much from her about how to show students genuine support and care, while still giving them realistic expectations and perspective. She helped me to grow as both a professional and as an individual.
What inspires you? The people around me. Whether they’re a close friend or family member, a colleague, a student or even an encouraging story I see on the news, I am consistently in awe of the community around me. The hard work and compassion I see in others helps push me to be a better version of myself.
What can’t you live without? Coffee, candles, and a cozy blanket.
How do you like to spend your free time? I enjoy trying out new restaurants and coffee shops with friends/family. Whenever I’m traveling or in a new city, the first thing I look up are unique and local coffee spots. I am also active in my church where I assist in small groups and children’s ministry.
What’s your favorite spot on campus? Norris Starbucks (I love the hustle and bustle, and of course, the coffee).
Each week a different staff member in the division of Student Affairs will be featured. Staff can opt in to be featured, by filling out the Staff Spotlight Submission form. Student Affairs Marketing staff reach out to staff from across the division asking for participation. The spotlights will be featured in the Student Affairs Snapshot e-newsletter.