{"id":1830,"date":"2026-03-12T18:57:28","date_gmt":"2026-03-12T18:57:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/?p=1830"},"modified":"2026-03-16T19:01:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T19:01:53","slug":"guiding-your-journey-meet-the-college-of-arts-academic-advising-team","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/2026\/03\/12\/guiding-your-journey-meet-the-college-of-arts-academic-advising-team\/","title":{"rendered":"Guiding Your Journey: Meet the College of Arts Academic Advising Team"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1><strong>Your Academic Journey Starts with a Conversation<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p>At the University of the Fraser Valley, education is more than a checklist of courses &#8212; it\u2019s a journey of discovery, growth, and transformation. The Academic Advising Centre plays a vital role in that journey, offering students a meaningful human connection between their studies and their future.<\/p>\n<p>Advising is not just about selecting classes. It\u2019s an ongoing process designed to help students:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Develop and adjust academic plans as goals evolve<\/li>\n<li>Make informed decisions about programs and pathways<\/li>\n<li>Connect coursework to career aspirations<\/li>\n<li>Access campus resources and support services<\/li>\n<li>Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills<\/li>\n<li>Reflect and grow throughout their university experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Whether meeting once or several times, students leave advising conversations with clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of direction.<\/p>\n<p>For College of Arts students, the advising team is here to listen, guide, and walk alongside you &#8212; through questions, uncertainty, big decisions, and exciting milestones.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s meet the dedicated advisors who support the College of Arts community.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1831 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"184\" height=\"184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-45x45.jpg 45w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025-65x65.jpg 65w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Amara-Wong-2-2025.jpg 1423w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 184px) 100vw, 184px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Amara Wong<\/strong><em> (she\/her)<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports<\/em><em>: <span data-teams=\"true\"><i>Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies, Bachelor of Integrated Studies, Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts diploma, General Studies diploma, and various College of Arts certificates.<\/i><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p>Amara\u2019s journey into advising began right here at UFV. As a student, she worked at the front desk of the Academic Advising Centre through a work-study position. Watching advisors guide students with care and expertise left a lasting impression \u2014 and inspired her career path.<\/p>\n<p>What she loves most about her role is helping students achieve their goals while easing their concerns. For Amara, the real reward is building relationships and watching students grow into confident, capable graduates.<\/p>\n<p>Her advice to students? <strong>\u201cDon\u2019t rush to figure everything out. Explore. Discover what you\u2019re passionate about. If you enjoy what you study, the career path will follow.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>She believes your degree is not just about an endpoint \u2014 it\u2019s about meaningful exploration.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1832 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Eve-mix-218x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"177\" height=\"244\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Eve-mix-218x300.jpg 218w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Eve-mix.jpg 312w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 177px) 100vw, 177px\" \/>Eve Mix <\/strong><em>(she\/her)<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports: <span data-teams=\"true\"><i>Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies, Bachelor of Integrated Studies, Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts diploma, General Studies diploma, various College of Arts certificates, <\/i><\/span><\/em><em>Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Media Arts.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Eve\u2019s path to advising was shaped by her love of working directly with students. After moving into a behind-the-scenes role at a previous institution, she realized she deeply missed student interaction. Advising became the natural next step.<\/p>\n<p>She finds joy in those \u201caha!\u201d moments \u2014 when students connect the dots, gain clarity, and begin to thrive. Watching them step confidently into their goals is what makes her work so fulfilling.<\/p>\n<p>Her message to students: <strong>\u201cTrust yourself and follow your dreams. It\u2019s your life and your education \u2014 do what you love.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Eve\u2019s approach is rooted in empowerment and self-trust.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1833 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-225x300.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"178\" height=\"238\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Julia-Shuker-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 178px) 100vw, 178px\" \/>Julia Shuker <\/strong><em>(she\/her)<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports: Bachelor of Integrated Studies, General Studies Diploma, Bachelor of Arts.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Julia sees advising as an extension of her teaching. When offered the opportunity to work in advising, she embraced it as a way to better support her students\u2019 dreams and academic paths.<\/p>\n<p>The most meaningful part of her role? Watching students grow in confidence \u2014 from their first uncertain steps to graduation day and beyond. Hearing from former students about their careers continues to inspire her.<\/p>\n<p>Guided by the wisdom of her Elders, she shares this powerful reminder: <strong>\u201cAsking for help is not a sign of weakness \u2014 it is a sign of strength.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Julia encourages students to embrace the UFV community and remember: you are never alone in your journey.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1834 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"183\" height=\"183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-45x45.jpg 45w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2-65x65.jpg 65w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Kirsten-Trustham-2.jpg 1328w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 183px) 100vw, 183px\" \/>Kirsten Trustham <\/strong><em>(she\/her)<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports: <span data-teams=\"true\"><i>Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies, Bachelor of Integrated Studies, Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts diploma, General Studies diploma, and various College of Arts certificates.<\/i><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p>Kirsten is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of education. For her, learning is about more than knowledge \u2014 it\u2019s about confidence, purpose, and opportunity.<\/p>\n<p>She finds meaning in helping students navigate transitions and discover their potential. Supporting students through challenges and decisions is where her passion shines.<\/p>\n<p>Her advice: <strong>\u201cGet involved. Join clubs, attend events, collaborate, explore opportunities beyond the classroom.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>She believes engagement builds community, strengthens skills, and makes the university experience richer and more connected.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1835 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Shannon-Draney-picture-300x219.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"199\" height=\"145\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Shannon-Draney-picture-300x219.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Shannon-Draney-picture.jpg 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 199px) 100vw, 199px\" \/>Shannon Draney <\/strong><em>(she\/her)<\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports: <span data-teams=\"true\"><i>Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies, Bachelor of Integrated Studies, Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts diploma, General Studies diploma, and various College of Arts certificates.<\/i><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p>Shannon discovered her passion for advising while working in various university roles. She realized she felt most fulfilled when working directly with students \u2014 helping them navigate their educational journeys and explore passions and life goals.<\/p>\n<p>The most rewarding part of her work? Witnessing students achieve their educational and career dreams.<\/p>\n<p>Her three pieces of advice:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Explore unfamiliar areas of study \u2014 you may discover a hidden passion.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Asking for help is a strength.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Take time to enjoy the university experience.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Shannon believes your degree should be both meaningful and memorable.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-1836 alignleft\" src=\"http:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-300x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-45x45.jpg 45w, https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/files\/2026\/03\/Vanessa-Krahn-1-65x65.jpg 65w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 205px) 100vw, 205px\" \/>Vanessa Krahn <\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><em>Supports:<\/em> <em><span data-teams=\"true\"><i>Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Arts in Global Development Studies, Bachelor of Integrated Studies, Associate of Arts, Liberal Arts diploma, General Studies diploma, various College of Arts certificates, <\/i><\/span><\/em><em>Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Media Arts.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Vanessa was inspired to become an advisor through her desire to support students academically, personally, and professionally. She understands how powerful guidance can be during moments of uncertainty.<\/p>\n<p>What motivates her daily is seeing students move from doubt to confidence \u2014 choosing paths, overcoming challenges, and celebrating milestones.<\/p>\n<p>Her advice: <strong>\u201cStay curious. Be open to exploration. Your degree is not just a destination \u2014 it\u2019s about developing adaptability, self-awareness, and transferable skills.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Vanessa encourages students to seek support early and trust that their path can evolve.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><strong>How to Book an Appointment<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Academic Advisors are available in-person, over Zoom, by phone or by email. Students can book appointments by visiting their myUFV account and look for the My Advisor card.\u00a0 Alternatively they can visit: <strong>ufv.ca\/advising <\/strong>or email: <strong>advising@ufv.ca<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Advising offices are located at:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Abbotsford Campus<\/strong> \u2013 S3117, SUB 3rd floor<br \/>\n604-864-4674<\/p>\n<p><strong>Chilliwack CEP Campus<\/strong> \u2013 A1318 (across from the library)<br \/>\n604-795-2808<\/p>\n<p>Whether you have a quick question or need help mapping out your entire academic journey, the College of Arts advising team is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t have to navigate university alone.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your Academic Journey Starts with a Conversation At the University of the Fraser Valley, education is more than a checklist of courses &#8212; it\u2019s a journey of discovery, growth, and transformation. The Academic Advising Centre plays a vital role in that journey, offering students a meaningful human connection between their studies and their future. Advising &#8230; <a title=\"Guiding Your Journey: Meet the College of Arts Academic Advising Team\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/2026\/03\/12\/guiding-your-journey-meet-the-college-of-arts-academic-advising-team\/\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":275,"featured_media":1837,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"generate_page_header":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[202],"tags":[257,256,31],"class_list":["post-1830","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-special-topics","tag-academic-journey","tag-advising","tag-students"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1830","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/275"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1830"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1830\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1840,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1830\/revisions\/1840"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1837"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1830"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1830"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.ufv.ca\/arts\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1830"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}