04/26/2024
I was recently interviewed by a student in the Music and Entertainment Business program. I thought I would share, not as a way to brag or boast, but to simply advocate for myself and the Music and Entertainment Business program at Ferris.
As a Program Coordinator, it is extremely RARE to receive positive affirmation from administration. It was a blessing to have a student share this interview for an assignment.
“Can you elaborate on your approach to personalized guidance and career development for students as a faculty advisor,” I asked. Prof. Kwant replied, “As an advisor, I believe in taking a comprehensive approach to student mentorship, giving them guidance to meet their needs, interests, and career aspirations. I start by building a connection with students, understanding their academic background, strengths, and areas for growth.”
“What strategies do you employ to maintain a healthy work-life balance while fulfilling teaching, research, and service obligations,” Prof. Kwant replied, “Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for sustaining productivity and well-being in academics. To achieve this, I prioritize effective time management, setting clear boundaries between work and personal life.”
“In what ways do you encourage students to stay updated on industry trends and engage in lifelong learning beyond the classroom.” Prof. Kwant replied, “I believe it’s crucial to instill in students a passion for lifelong learning and a proactive approach to staying abreast of industry trends.” “I integrate current events, case studies, and real-world examples into my curriculum to demonstrate the relevance of classroom concepts to the professional landscape.”
“How do you handle challenges or setbacks in your academic career, and what strategies do you recommend for overcoming them." Prof. Kwant replied, “Encountering challenges and setbacks is inevitable, but it’s how we respond to them that defines our success.” “Open communication and collaborations are key in navigating challenges effectively.”
During the interview with Prof. Kwant, I gained understanding of the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of being a faculty member at a university. He shared his journey, highlighting the
importance of continuous learning, and dedication to student success. We discussed his approach to advising students, emphasizing the significance of personalized
guidance, career development, and the need for a supportive academic community. His passion for teaching and research was evident as he spoke about innovative educational methods,
interdisciplinary programs, and he offered valuable advice on navigating service commitment and maintaining life-work harmony. His adaptability, resilience, and keeping in touch with
industry trends resonated with me, and eventually, we explored potential opportunities for projects, internships within Michigan and outside, curriculum development, and student
mentorship initiatives.