Take 5 with Cherise James

Dr. Cherise James

Associate Director of Orientation and Lower Divison Programming at Wake Forest University

1. Think of a time that you faced a challenge, obstacle, or roadblock. How did you get through that and what did you learn?

I have never had things handed to me so I’m not sure that I can pinpoint one challenge that stood out more than another. I’m the daughter of a single parent. We migrated to the US when I was 8. I was the first person in my family to receive a masters degree and now a PhD. I would say that I’ve faced every obstacle head on, but strategically.

2. Who are your people (either by name or role) who help you to be successful/confident/intentional/reflective/any other descriptor you want to use? And how have they helped you?

During my undergraduate years, I was incredibly involved to the extent of creating a leadership and diversity retreat that still exists many years later. The support that I received from staff, specifically in Student Affairs functions (residence life/ housing, Dean of Students, etc.) are a large part of the reason I work in Student Affairs now. They helped me by providing time and space to meet with me, discuss my hopes, dreams and aspirations. I attended an institution with an enrollment of roughly 50,000 so that time with our University administration was even more precious and limited.

3. How did you find your people?

During my undergraduate education it was through my involvement on campus. As a professional, I find my people who are willing to have the tough conversations with me and tell me what I need to hear, versus what I want to hear. I would likely say my appreciation of that trait began as an undergraduate and I often look for mentors who have that similar trait.

4. What advice would you give to Wake Forest students as they look for their people?

Look for people who are not only willing to listen and allow you to work / talk through your problems, but are also willing to give you advice based on their own missteps.