Matthew Hill has been named the College of Arts and Humanities’ senior lead advisor. Originally from Gadsden, Alabama, Hill obtained a Bachelors in English in 2016 and a Masters in English in 2019, and he is currently pursuing a Masters in Instructional Technology. He is also teaching English as an adjunct faculty member.

What brought you to JSU? 

My high school band, which was the Saks High School Wildcat Sound, regularly attended the band competitions and exhibitions held at Jacksonville State University. When I saw the 2008 Marching Southerners show, From Russia With Love, in person, I knew that I had to attend JSU so that I could march in the band. 

What is your area of expertise in Student Success? 

Contrary to popular belief, academic advising is more than just assisting students with choosing courses for the upcoming semester. Academic advising means that a student has a connection, in the form of a person, to the university, and can turn to someone when a challenge presents itself during the student’s time as a college student. I identified as a first-generation, low-income, and Queer student when I started at JSU in 2011, and it has become my main work to be a voice for those students who feel like they don’t belong here. It’s important that students know they do, and I’m here to assist them! 

What courses are you currently teaching at JSU? 

As an adjunct instructor for the English Department, I currently teach two online asynchronous courses of EH 101: English Composition. I also teach SSC 101: First Year Experience. 

What is (currently) your favorite part of your job? 

The students. I make it a priority to form a connection with each of my advisees and students, and hope they know that I am here to assist them with any issue, big or small. 

What is your favorite thing about the Student Success Department? 

My favorite thing about the Student Success Center is how lovely all the people are that I have the privilege to work with. It’s reassuring and wonderful to know that we all have the same goal: to ensure the success of the student.

What impact do you hope to have as an advisor at JSU? 

I hope that my willingness to be open about having been a first-generation, low-income, and Queer student inspires future students to know that they have a place in this world, and they will be successful. I’m currently working with various offices across the University to create some new initiatives to help foster a strong network for these students.

Do you have any ongoing projects or academic activities you’d like to share? 

It’s almost time to be advised for the summer and fall terms, and the advisement team serving the College of Arts and Humanities has a few plans for those students that are pre-advised, such as the opportunity to win some amazing prizes. When your advisor reaches out to you about making an appointment, make that appointment and attend! 

Do you have any notable achievements you wish to share? 

So far, the biggest highlight of my career was having the opportunity to propose, develop, and teach INS 365: Queer Arts and Culture back in Spring 2020. I had the chance to collaborate with some fellow professors, and because of that, I hope to continue my work with other colleagues to create and make new chances for students to belong to the JSU community. 

What do you do in your spare time? 

Well, when I do have free time, I love shopping and going to the movies. I also play my Nintendo Switch a lot, and one might find me taking a walk on the Ladiga Trail! When it’s warm enough, I enjoy playing tennis. 

What advice would you give to a student of yours? 

Never give up. All our journeys aren’t always so straight and easy; instead, our journeys can throw us off course, but it’s important that we remain focused on the goals and dreams we have. Surround yourself with a group of friends who are positive and will push you to be your best, and don’t be afraid to lean on them when things get tough. 

Anything else you want us to include? 

The advisement team serving the College of Arts and Humanities has big goals and plans for the students of our college, and we want to make sure that students know we are here for them! We are student-centered, and our services are available to help you achieve your goals. Please stop by one of our offices in Stone Center or Mason Hall for a chat!