05/28/2026
We want to spend today highlighting two individuals whose dedication and impact make a difference in the lives of our students every day: Carolyn Ballard and Sarah Jarrett, our HDFS academic advisors! Carolyn is the advisor for Human Development majors and Sarah is the advisor for Early Childhood Development and Education majors
Here are some reflections from Victoria Lael, an advanced instructor in HDFS, about Carolyn:
"I asked students in my class for feedback on Carolyn, and I got dozens of responses referring to her competence in helping students address complicated academic advising situations (switching majors, double majoring, preparing for specific careers, etc.) and just as many referring to how caring and kind she is. Many commented on the personal attention she gives students and how she remembers or notices things about them individually. She consistently helps provide students the information they need to stop stressing about their academic planning and put their energy toward their academics."
and Sarah:
"In addition to her familiarity with VT's academic policies and requirements, Sarah also has in-depth knowledge of Virginia State Teaching Licensure requirements. Also, she advises students from a variety of majors (all planning to teach), which adds to the difficulty of her work. She is incredibly knowledgeable and does an amazing job keeping track of so much detailed information. Students she advises comment on her friendliness, her quick response times, and her ability to help students figure out the best path for their goals. One student said, "She always makes me feel less stressed." Another said, "She's been extremely patient, understanding, and someone know I can always talk to and be completely honest
with without feeling judged."
