Jennifer Catey

How long have you been with the university, and how long in your current position?

I was here from 2002-2008 (in the Psychology Department); then from 2009 to the present in the English Department

What has been your most memorable experience at U-M?

When Uwem Akpan (author of Say You're One of Them) was a graduate student here, I asked him to sign my copy of his book; we had this interaction and we both had tears in our eyes. That was a very humbling and other-worldly experience!

What gives you a connection to your job and helps you define your purpose?

Our most important "customers" are the students we serve. Working on programming, classes, etc. that will serve our student's interests and needs is always at the center of what we do.

What motivates and energizes you at work?

The best part of my job is helping our students. I get to hear a lot about their lives and their stories thus far and so many of our students are not only survivors but they're finding ways to thrive. To play even a small part of a student's success is what makes my job rewarding.

What advice would you give to a new employee at the university?

Take advantage of the variety of talks/lectures that are available on campus

What is one thing about yourself you think people would be surprised to know?

Even though I'm an introvert, I also have a strong sense of adventure!