The Non-Traditional College Education in NH

My name is Jan Hodges and I began working for Granite State College as an Academic Advisor two years ago. GSC is a great fit for me because I believe in the power of the non-traditional path and know firsthand the joys and challenges of juggling work, family and school. I love working with students of all ages and helping them to find creative solutions to obtaining an adult education degree.  I advise students at the Conway, NH College.  

I have come to the world of academic advising by a circuitous route, taking the scenic path through three undergraduate colleges to obtain my B.A in my self-designed major, "Interdisciplinary Studies in Art, Literature and History." I have a lifetime of experience in adult and continuing education.

Before advising, my background was as an exhibiting artist and art gallery director. For eleven years I ran a university art gallery where I had one foot in the art world, the other in the academic. There I had the opportunity to mentor at-risk students.  I discovered a passion for working with students and helping them to identify and meet their academic and career goals. To support my new career, I returned to school and got my M.S. degree in Human Services and Counseling. 

Because I have lived the non-traditional path, I am a passionate advocate for my students.  Being student-centered and developing the advising relationship is important to me. It is a higher quality journey if we share it.

I live in the beautiful Lakes Region of NH with my two children and our many pets.