Taylor Larsen’s love for higher education and passion for helping students have made her role as a Student Success Advisor fulfilling. Get to know Larsen as she discusses her background, advice to students, and her new role in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

What sparked your interest in working at Syracuse University?

I studied public relations and minored in sustainability. I really enjoy working in higher ed. Some things that energize my work are helping students find their passion and the different talents and skills they have that they can apply to their real lives and do that reflection. A lot of what I do in my job is hold up a mirror to my students and show them who they are. It’s not about trying to be more or doing more. It’s about helping them discover what they have within them.

Discovering different opportunities, I wanted to transition into a more advising role that focused on success. This position aligned with the journey I wanted to go on.

What is your role as a student success advisor?

The role of a student success advisor is to focus on the student and make sure they maximize their use of resources while they’re here. Especially with how big the university is, it’s easy to get lost and confused in figuring out who you are and what you want to do.

If I had a person in the position I have now when I was an undergrad, I would be a completely different person. I’m grateful to be where I am and offer the services I’m able to provide to my students.

It’s kind of like consulting to a certain degree. It’s different for each student depending on what’s going on in their lives. Making sure they are achieving their goals and pursuing their purpose while they’re here. We make sure they’re hitting all the milestones they must hit to graduate on time and build themselves up for their career.

What are you most excited about in your current role?

I am excited to build rapport with my students and become more creative in the ways that I help them define their success and encourage them to take action. In the age of social media, most people do a lot of talking but not a lot of doing. I look forward to encouraging my students to implement more action tools to put their thoughts and words into motion.

What’s your favorite part about being a success advisor?

Honestly, watching my students achieve their goals and not only be successful but feel successful. A lot of our wants and needs come from feeling. Nobody cares about what kind of car you’re driving–it’s about how you feel when you drive. I look forward to and enjoy watching my students find that within themselves. Helping them on that journey fulfills me a lot.

Do you have any advice for students?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask questions. You have to be brave enough to sound foolish at times otherwise you won’t learn anything or go anywhere.

What are some things you like to do for fun?

I like to walk my dog, Beans, sing, cook, and hang out with friends.

Our college offers a variety of support services for students. Learn more about how Student Success Advising and Career Services can help you.