Colin Van Orman (MS '15) joined the iSchool on November 1 as a graduate studies advisor. In his role, he will provide academic advising and program planning for students in the MS in library and information science (MS/LIS) program, as well as contribute to orientations and other student affairs programming.
At Illinois, Van Orman worked full time as the help desk services coordinator for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics while studying for his MS/LIS degree. He holds a bachelor's degree in information technology from Franklin University.
"I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the iSchool during my graduate work," he said. "The intensity of the work and shared experiences amongst my cohort helped build some great friendships and connections that I still rely on to this day."
After receiving his master's degree, Van Orman worked as a computer networking instructor and student advisor at Illinois Central College. He was a core team member on the Pathways to Results grant to improve student transitions to and through postsecondary education and into employment, and he helped develop course and career paths that improved technical programs of study at the college.
In his new role at the iSchool, Van Orman looks forward to working with the diverse student population and helping students plan their immediate program needs short-term course and long-term employment goals. His advice to students is to seek out as many networking and pre-professional opportunities as possible. "The connections and experiences you cultivate will prove invaluable in the future," he said.