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So, I Decided to Become an Advisor…

October 9th, 2018
Filed Under: Alumnae News | Guest Post

by Christi Due Doyle, Eta Epsilon – Miami University


I’m almost an empty nester (my youngest is a senior in college and applying to medical school, does that count?). I have a second career unrelated to my degree and previous employment before staying home to be with my children. I work part-time in a job share position that I love at the all-boys high school my two sons attended. My middle child lives nearby and my eldest, my only daughter, lives far away.

During the last school year, I attended two events that my collegiate chapter invited alumnae to participate in. I volunteered and enjoyed attending both events. Why? Because my son was a current student and this was my alma mater? Because the members and alumnae I interacted with were so genuine and friendly? The only thread we shared was our Alpha Delta Pi membership at Miami University. Was that enough? I felt a little embarrassed at my lack of involvement compared to the other panelists and a pull to contribute more.

I attended our chapter’s Founders Day Tea and helped with Jewel Degree for a friend who was pretty sure she didn’t go through it…at our age, sometimes these things slip our memories. We spent a great afternoon eating, talking, laughing and people watching uptown. I miss this; these college friends, this time together.

This summer, I noticed a request for advisor openings in The Chronicle and checked to see if any were open from my chapter, which is a 45-50 minute drive away. I was an advisor for a local chapter that was struggling in many areas and eventually closed. My children were young, it was time spent away from them, and it became a chore and something I dreaded. I knew it was time to let go. That was many years go…those toddlers are now my 27 and 25 year olds.

I love being an alumna of Miami University and my son’s attendance makes me a current parent now, too. I love visiting campus, attending hockey games, interacting with other parents, my son, and his friends and their parents. There was an opening, and I applied and was accepted as the Standards Advisor.

What have I done so far? I’ve watched some webinars, read countless documents and forms, and read multiple versions of The Chronicle in search of the right blend of knowledge and advice to give. I have been to two Executive Board meetings. I participated in Scholarship meetings with new forms and procedures and we (the scholarship Chair and I) figured out working plans. I ask questions and they are answered. I’ve been asked to contribute my opinion on potential standards issues, and we are able to devise plans. 

Along the way, I’ve met the other advisors that make up our board, all from other chapters and some traveling further than I to events. These are women who also give their time and expertise to support our members. I’ve met outstanding young women, who are so poised and accomplished at their young age. Was I, too, at their age? I don’t think so, and I’m impressed. I feel appreciated and valued; it feels good to be a part of this.

I realized how much I miss this involvement, even with its ups and downs. I’ve sighed; but I’ve laughed even more. I look forward to my time with the chapter, and I still smile when I come home.



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