Meet your Dean of Students: Office hours and donuts with Dean Olstad

Office hours can be helpful for answering questions or getting to know a professor, but they’re not just for classes. Several campus leaders hold office hours with students as a way to hear more about issues that are important to you, or to simply get to know you better.

Dean of Students Christina Olstad holds office hours for all students and invites YOU to come and start a conversation.

“Office hours provide an opportunity to share your experiences at UW-Madison and what you would like to be improved for the student experience. I look forward to connecting with all students about their Wisconsin Experience and advancing programs and services to promote persistence to graduation,” said Dean Olstad.

Here are 10 reasons why you should attend Dean Olstad’s office hours:

1. Introduce Yourself
Stop in to say “hello!” Dean Olstad would love to get to know you.

2. Learn About Leadership
Are you a leader of a student group? Dean Olstad can offer helpful tips on leadership.

3. Discover What Deans Do
Ever wondered what a Dean of Students does on campus? Come find out! Dean Olstad leads the staff that run the Dean of Students OfficeCenter for the First-Year ExperienceOffice of Student Conduct and Community Standards, the Parent and Family Program, and supports the Associated Students of Madison. Although that may sound like a lot, there is so much more to her position that can be uncovered.

4. Share Your Favorite Madison Spots
As a Minnesota native (no judgement here), Dean Olstad is still learning about all Madison has to offer. She would love to hear about your favorite coffee shops, parks, restaurants, and activities.

5. You’re Not Sure Who To Talk To
There is no topic too big or small to bring to her. Dean Olstad is willing to listen and offer support.

6. Share Issues
Dean Olstad would love to hear about any issues that are on your mind.

7. Get Information About Campus Resources or Policies
Do you have questions about student involvement? Need support for a friend who is struggling? Not sure about campus rules and guidelines? Dean Olstad can help answer your questions or point you to the right resources.

8. Talk About Your Love for Babies
Bobby is Dean Olstad’s 22-month-old baby. She would love to show you pictures and videos of Bobby meeting Bucky or dancing to the UW Marching Band. Dogs are a great topic of conversation as well!

9. Share an Idea
Are you a genius inventor or entrepreneur? Come tell Dean Olstad your idea for a new club or campus invention and she can help you figure out the next steps.

10. Why Not?
No matter what is going on in your life Dean Olstad wants to hear about it. She’s warm, welcoming, and her main focus is student success.

** BONUS: #DonutswithDeanOlstad
If you weren’t sold already, we know this will convince you. Dean Olstad will be around campus handing out donuts! For more information about #DonutswithDeanOlstad check out the Dean of Students Webpage. Head to her location, eat a donut, and chat it up.

Now that you have at least one reason to stop in, here is where you can find the hours. Also, follow Dean Olstad on Twitter and learn more about her time at UW-Madison and connecting with the Badger community.