Each month we will profile a member of CILT staff, giving a glimpse into what makes them tick. This month we profile Dr Lauren Butterworth, Associate Student Learning Advisor with the Student Learning Support Service.
- What do you like the most about working at Flinders?
I’ve had a very big soft spot for Flinders since I started as an undergrad back in 2006 and it seems I’ve never been able to shake it – nor Flinders me, for that matter. I’ve had a number of roles across the uni and in each one I’ve met the most incredible people who have become my friends, mentors, and collaborators. The relationships I’ve built here mean so much to me, both professionally and personally, and I honestly wouldn’t be who I am today without them all – so I think that says a lot about the quality of people Flinders keeps around!
- What’s one thing that can instantly make your day better?
The best moments in my day come from having really rewarding moments with students: seeing an ‘aha’ moment in their faces during a class or consultation, watching them overcome and succeed with a concept they’ve been struggling with, or even just having them wave at me from across the courtyard. It always lifts me up and reminds me of how much I love the work I do. On a more practical note, though, my mid-morning coffee from Rav at Bon Voyage always hits the spot and is guaranteed to turn any day around!
- What is something you are looking forward to?
I’ve been working on some really exciting projects that I hope have the potential to really change the way students access our resources and I can’t wait to see them launch soon. Last year was difficult and quite hectic for most of us, but I think it also provided an opportunity to reflect on our practice and how we can better serve students, so seeing these innovations come to fruition is excellent. On a more personal note, my body’s also been at work on a side-project – building a small human! So I’m very much looking forward to this new chapter and all the new and very big challenges (and rewards!) it will bring.