Patti Neiman
Associate director
133b Appleby Hall
612-625-3339 - appointments
612-625-6826 - direct
p-neim@umn.edu
What do you do at ETC Services?
As associate director I oversee career services for the College of Education and Human Development. This includes supervision of the staff as well as overseeing the center, counseling, and programs areas.
Education
M.A. Educational Psychology
Counseling and Student Personnel Psychology
(CSPP), University of Minnesota
B.A.S. Human Services
General College, University of Minnesota
How did you get here?
I was a sophomore at the U of M when I met a faculty member of General College who became my mentor. He offered me an undergrad TA position which greatly influenced my academic and career choice. I worked for a year after completing my undergraduate degree in a human services field, and then returned to the U of M to earn a masters degree. I was offered a Graduate Assistantship with two different faculty members (another mentor!) of the General College and continued in these positions until I completed my M.A. Upon completion I applied for a full-time counselor advocate position in General College and was hired to create a career resource center and to advise and career counsel students. I began to supervise graduate students completing their CSPP practicum in 1995 and now supervise a staff of seven. In July 2006, General College merged with two colleges creating the NEW College of Education and Human Development, where I am now the associate director of ETC Services, creating career services for undergraduate and graduate students.
What do you like about your job?
I get to be involved in almost every aspect of the ETC Services operation and am not far removed from contact with students. The variety and collaborative opportunities keep me busy but satisfied.
Most unusual job you ever had:
Slicing headcheese (and other assorted meats and cheeses) in a deli in downtown Minneapolis.
More about you:
Very values-driven with a strong desire to make a difference in the world. Very committed to working with non-traditional populations and opening the doors for those who have found them to be closed. Thoroughly enjoy mentoring students of any age or year in school. Addicted to harmony and strive toward a healthy balance of family and work.
What tip would you give students for getting the most out of ETC Services?
We all have gifts and talents; some are more hidden than others. Pay attention to what you do well and what “feels right.” You can be successful when you pursue your strengths! If you don’t know what you do well, come see us.
Updated July 2007