The college years are truly a transformative period. Many of us go in as bright-eyed high schoolers and find ourselves years later as budding professionals trying to make our way in the world. As a senior I thought it might be appropriate to look back and appreciate the many people that have shaped me through these years. In particular, I’ve come to realize much of my growth and development has taken place outside the classroom.

I’m going to tell you about a person who I haven’t even taken a class from but has had an exceptional amount of influence on me in my time here. He is the true embodiment of a gentleman and a scholar; endlessly cheerful in addition to a tireless devotion to student success. In an often intimidating atmosphere, he is always engaging and easy to approach, the epitome of an educator. UNI is full of hidden gems, and too often they go undiscovered and under-appreciated. Professor Clifton Chancey, this column is for you.

I first met this man as a high school senior on a visit to UNI’s campus to interview for a scholarship. Feeling a bit stiff in the suit that I was wearing for the first time, I began the day walking around the McLeod Center. Cheerfully manning his table, he struck up conversation with me about my background and interests. Over the whirring of sumo-robots, he spoke to me about all the great things UNI had to offer despite my total lack of interest in his department (at the time.)

After learning of my scholarship interview, he revealed to me that he previously served on the same scholarship committee. In the midst of my shock, he coached me up with some of the old questions (“What kind of fruit would you be?”) and wished me the best of luck. Not only did my confidence skyrocket, but I also got a glimpse of how important student success is not only to him, but to all faculty at this university.

A year later, I found myself with a double major and very little clue as to what I wanted to do after graduation. While walking past Chancey’s open door of the department office many times, stopping in to catch up from time to time was inevitable. While the topics varied he would always listen, challenge my thinking and push me to keep aiming higher. All the while, the underlying passion for student excellence was unmistakable. These conversations led me to pursue a job doing research, something I’ve developed such a passion for that I can’t imagine doing anything else. His impact on my life and goals are undeniable, and there aren’t words to describe my gratitude towards him.

He goes the extra mile for me and my fellow students constantly. From arranging a way for me to take two classes scheduled at the same time to making personal recommendations (without my knowledge) he is truly a wizard behind the curtain. In my time here, I’ve only just begun to appreciate the mountain of work done behind the scenes. People like Chancey are truly the lifeblood of this university and what make a place like UNI so special.

These examples, few as they are, constitute mere drops in an ocean of the positive influences amassed over a long school career. As I go on to begin a career, Chancey will always stand out to me not only as a mentor, but as a shining example of a dedicated educator and scholar. How different would my life be if I had never introduced myself in the McLeod Center? I shudder at the thought.

Doubtless, there are many students at UNI who have had similar life-changing experiences through relationships with staff and faculty. We have countless world-class educators at UNI. Take advantage of them.

Initially, it is scary for students to approach and get to know professors, but the benefits are incalculable. Sure, maybe you’ll land a research gig or get a good recommendation, but getting to know your professors is much more than that. The lessons you learn from them both as professionals and as people are invaluable parts of the college experience. After all, the reason we are here is to learn as best we can inside and outside the classroom. UNI is truly a special place where these kinds of experiences are possible. Go find your Chancey.