Look Ma - My Alma Mater Interviewed Me! #GoBlue!

University of Michigan Residential College Magazine "RC NEWS" Features Interview with Alumna Heidi Philipsen

When newly appointed University of Michigan Residential College Communications & Outreach Coordinator Robby Griswold reached out to me last spring to ask if I'd like to be their first alumna featured in an interview within the pages of their brand new RC News, I jumped - up and down - many times!
"Are you KIDDING ME? It would be the greatest honor," I responded.
The Residential College rescued me - literally rescued me as a lost university student. Back in the early 90's I was so overwhelmed by all the choices and had an idea of what I loved, but no clue how to put it all together. 
"Film, Theater and German Literature - can I put that all together?" I wondered, aloud.
"Yep - if you do an Independent Concentration," my RC counselor replied.
And that is exactly what I did.
Looking back, it's hard to believe, but that was the PERFECT concentration for me - as I've used every bit of it in my life and career.  Heck, take a look at my bio on this website and you'll see for yourself.
In any case, I can't believe that I've received the honor of being interviewed for RC News and that my story may inspire other current - and future - students (like my son or daughter?).  I remember feeling like such a mess back then, full of hopes and dreams and no idea how to make them happen, but the amazing faculty and staff at the University of Michigan Residential College GOT ME and believed in me and showed me the way. 
They had inspired vision in ME - of whom I might become one day.
So glad that they still feel that way -- I may not be done with my life's journey yet, but I work hard every day to prove them right in taking a chance on this girl from Ypsilanti, Michigan.
Check out the interview (and the rest of the magazine!) by clicking HERE.
Happy Reading!