By Scout Nelson
Brooke Mott has been recognized for her innovative contributions to improving graduate education at the School of Natural Resources. With experience as a master’s student from 2021 to 2023, she now works to make the academic journey easier for current graduate students.
As a recruitment and retention coordinator, she has spent nearly two years improving processes and strengthening communication between students and faculty. Her efforts have made academic systems more organized and accessible. Despite her hard work, she was surprised to receive a staff recognition award.
"I almost teared up a little bit, because I had been feeling a little overwhelmed, that I'd maybe taken on too many projects that may or may not be useful," Mott said. "To have that email come through when I didn't even know that I had been put up for an award made me feel very appreciated and that I am where I'm supposed to be right now."
Her advisor and nominator praised her dedication and creativity in improving support systems.
"Brooke has consistently improved every aspect of her work — streamlining office operations, strengthening communication with students and faculty, enhancing coordination with Graduate Studies and other departments and developing valuable tools and resources," Burbach said. "I often find myself thinking, 'This is such a great idea. Why didn’t we do this sooner?'"
One of her key achievements is the Graduate Student Milestone Planning Timeline. This tool helps students track deadlines and plan their academic tasks more effectively.
"It's just a thing that they can put up on the wall and think, 'OK, this seems like I have so much time, but it actually goes really fast, and about now is a great time to start working on this,'" Mott said.
She also created resource boards and helpful guides to reduce confusion caused by scattered information.
"I really want them to be able to feel like they have everything they need at their fingertips and feel confident going forward," Mott said.
Mott promotes an open and welcoming environment where students feel comfortable seeking help.
"I just want them to feel appreciated and that they can come to me to talk about anything, whether it be venting, some advice about their program, helping organize, and I think the students are using that opportunity," Mott said.
"I really try to work together with the students and their advisors to find answers and put our best foot forward to create the best situation for them," Mott said.
She also supports student engagement through social events and aims to develop a buddy system for international students.
"I just want to do everything I can to avoid them ever feeling that something is more difficult than it needs to be," Mott said.
Her commitment continues to create a supportive and efficient learning environment for all graduate students.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
Categories: Nebraska, Education, General