Learn more about Emma Bjorngard Basayne (Saami), PhD, Advising Center Operations Director and Academic Advisor, through our Staff Spotlight series.
Hometown: Gothenburg, Sweden
Your Role in the College of Education: Advising Center Operations Director and Academic Advisor
How long have you worked at the University of Oregon? This summer I celebrated my two-year work anniversary at the University of Oregon.
Favorite books or movies: I have so many favorite books, but my two favorite books that I read over the summer are: Pageboy: A Memoir by Elliot Page and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros.
Hobbies: Reading, hiking, skiing, and playing video games!
What is your favorite thing about your role?
My favorite thing about my role is the time I get to spend with the students in advising appointments. I love to listen to them and figure out how I can best help them alleviate any stress that they might be experiencing around their academics and college life. My approach has always been to treat students holistically. I listen to learn and seek to validate each student’s feelings and experiences. It is important to me that all our College of Education students know that they can come to my office and feel both welcomed and supported.
What is unique about working at the College of Education?
To me what is unique about the College of Education is the fact that all our students are driven by their desire to help people and change lives. This drive to want to be life-changers stood out to me in our students immediately, and it’s something that I see embodied also in our staff and faculty. I am convinced that this shared drive and commitment to helping others creates an environment in which we all thrive and grow as individuals.
How do you hope your work makes an impact?
I hope my work makes an impact on our students in that they feel seen, understood, and cared for while at the University of Oregon. I want them to know that I am here for them, and that my role is to support them and help them maximize their time at the UO, both inside and outside of the classroom. I believe this because all my students are unique individuals, and they simply deserve the best.
What message would you like to share with students considering coming to UO?
If you are looking for a college experience where you will feel like you are part of a big family, then the University of Oregon is for you! Whether you are a sports fan looking to attend exciting athletics games, an outdoor enthusiast, or a theater connoisseur (or truly all of the above), the UO is the place for you. Just walking across campus to the EMU you can feel that the student community we have here is truly something special. Go Ducks!