Want to connect about your first year? Ready to make plans for your future on campus? Got questions? Just to want to talk to someone? Compass Talks are your opportunity to set up individual meetings with UA First staff to discuss goal setting, involvement opportunities, challenges or successes you are facing during your first year, and anything else you want to talk about during our meeting. Compass Talks are a great way to gain a mentor at UA!
Schedule a Compass Talk
To schedule a Compass Talk, select from our staff members below.
Clicking their link will take you to their scheduling page where you can select an appointment according to common availability.
Nate Owens
Feeling like you’re navigating college on your own? As a first-generation student, I know how overwhelming it can be to find your place and make sense of all the opportunities at UA. Let’s chat about your goals, challenges, or even those big dreams you’re still figuring out. Whether it’s building connections, finding resources, or creating a plan to thrive here, I would love to help you feel at home and supported at UA.
Elizabeth Webber
Ever wonder how to make college feel like home? For me, it was finding mentors who believed in me and learning how to tap into the right resources. Growing up in Tuscaloosa, I didn’t have to travel far for college, but my first year still came with a big learning curve. Now, I love being that calm, reassuring presence for students as they navigate their own journeys. Whether it’s helping you with time management, building confidence, or simply listening, my door is open to you as you find your rhythm on campus!
Trey Dickey
Looking to make a mark or leave a lasting legacy? When I came to UA, I wanted to leave my mark on campus. Thankfully, there are endless ways to get involved on campus and make an impact in the UA community, Alabama, or the world. You can talk with me about your biggest dreams, and I would love to have the opportunity to be a small part of your legendary story.
Tonya Jenkins
I’m proud to be a first-generation student from rural Mississippi. Growing up in a small town as one of six children taught me the value of hard work and the importance of community. I know what it's like to face challenges, but I also know that those challenges can shape us in powerful ways. Come let me meet you where you are so we can brainstorm ways to get you where you want to go.
John Tilley
It can be hard adjusting to college and finding your place at UA. My first year didn’t exactly go the way I thought it would, but getting involved helped me meet other people and made campus feel more like home. Come talk to me about ways to get involved, tips for staying organized, or how to get more out of your student experience.
Karley Fernandez Conley
Feeling overwhelmed by the many hats you wear and circumstances you face? When I was in school, I worked multiple jobs (one even full-time!), was involved in several extracurriculars and experienced a health crisis that affected my daily life. I understand what it’s like to feel like there’s one more weight to carry, one more responsibility to fulfill, one more way to show up, do your best and be present. Come chat with me if you would like some ~hopefully helpful~ strategies for wearing your many hats or if you just want someone to listen.
Carrie Harris
Looking for strategies to be successful? I was the first in my family to go to college so I love coming to work every day knowing I can help students navigate the highs and lows of college. You can talk to me if you need help with study strategies, time management, a lecture on the importance of sleep, or pictures of my doggos!
Chelsea Ratcliff
Feeling excited, scared, confused or a multitude of other feelings? Me too during my college days! From building confidence in personal leadership to getting a grasp of tactics to be a successful student, I know you are one of UA’s many legends and it is my goal to be your champion of support along the way.