A Students Point of View: RIT Photo Students have the best advisors
Right from the start of becoming an RIT Photo student, I have enjoyed working with my advisors. They are so helpful and approachable. I am becoming more aware about how important good advising is. I thought it would be interesting to feature my advisors as my second post.
Paul Muenzer and Stephanie Solt are College of Art and Design advisors who are assigned to photography students. They help us organize and plan our academic paths forward in the Photo School and across the campus. My personal experiences with my advisor, Paul have been very beneficial!
Much of their work is behind the scenes and things we don’t know about. I asked them six questions about their personal stories and opinions about their job. I also wondered what they like to do in time away from RIT.
How and why did you become an advisor?
Paul : As an undergraduate student I changed majors almost a dozen times. I had helpful advisors, who along the way, helped guide me through the process. This is my chance to do the same for my advisees. I also like that advising can be like a puzzle – fitting all the required courses together with minors, study abroad, etc. It is rewarding to help students fit all of the pieces together in creative ways.
Stephanie : Hello! I was involved in student government as an undergraduate student. Through this experience I learned that I enjoyed advocating for students and working with administrators. It was this work that prompted me to consider higher education as a career path and eventually lead me to advising.
I am originally from Buffalo, NY. I came to Rochester and RIT as an undergraduate student and decided to stay in the area after completing my graduate degree at the University of Rochester. I enjoy cooking, gardening, being physically active, pour over coffee, and spending time with my husband Paul and energetic Australian Shepherd dog named Row.
Can you tell me something about you and what your life is like?
Paul : I spend a lot of time with my two French Bulldogs – Hudson and Lucca. They are clowns and are always there at the end of a long day to provide love and entertainment. I also love to cook, so I enjoy going to the Farmers Market on Saturdays. When I have more time, I enjoy traveling with my Husband – our next bucket – list destination is South America.
Stephanie : Very physically active! I love rock climbing, yoga, and running. I also enjoy cooking and working in our vegetable garden.
What are the most asked questions you get from students and what is your typical response?
Paul: What Immersion or minor should I choose? I view the answer through two lenses – do something that is practical and directly applicable to your career path or take this opportunity to study a subject outside your professional scope and learn about it for fun. Either way you will pick-up valuable skills, expand your knowledge base, and show mastery of a new subject area. You can’t go wrong.
Stephanie: Do I have to take art history? The answer is yes. Four semesters of art history are required for a BFA degree.
What do people not know about you that is interesting?
Paul: I grew up with a pet llama named Larry. In the near future I am hoping to have a small farm with some pet goats and a llama or alpaca.
Stephanie: I’ve been a plant based eater for the last three years.
What questions and advice would you want students to know when they meet with you?
Paul: My advice is to come in early and often if needed. I am here to help figure out all the different requirements and opportunities that RIT has to offer. When I meet with a student, I tell them to layout all their wish-list items. Together we can figure out what is possible and how we can achieve their goals. Ask questions – I may not have the answers, but I will help you find the right place to get the answers. I also want students to find their voice, and don’t be afraid to be your own advocate. If you don’t know your grade in a class – ask your professor for it. If you want to see something change – speak up and let someone know your opinion. Don’t be a bystander in your education!
Stephanie: Always ask questions. If you are ever wondering who to contact about a concern or need further clarification regarding curriculum, your graduation plan, academic goals, etc. I am happy to help.
I enjoyed researching the CAD Academic Services. It was a pleasure getting to better know Paul and Stephanie. I hope this was a fun read that helped you get a better understanding about how great they are as a people.
Emily Suddock
About Emily Suddock
Emily is a second-year advertising photography student who is also cross-registered in the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. I have been hard of hearing most of my life. I was born in China adopted by my loving family. They are a big part of life. I have a Nikon 600 with a 35 mm lens which I love taking portraits with.
