Jaguars you should know: Connor Schwer
By Laura Pohl, Contributing Writer
As an Academic Advisor, Connor Schwer wants to be part of students' life goals and big dreams—and that means ensuring they stay on track to complete their degrees at Governors State University (GovState). He helps them navigate their academic journeys with confidence and clarity.
“The most common question I get is ‘what is the most streamlined and time-efficient way to get my degree?’” Schwer said. “Students want to know the best academic plan to reach their end goal of earning a degree in the least amount of time.”
Schwer earned his own degree in Business Administration/Human Resources through Troy University in Alabama. After a position in sales, he joined GovState in 2022 in the Registrar’s Office as an Admissions and Records Representative.
“I always felt that it would be very rewarding to be able to assist students reach their full potential,” he said of his decision to change careers to higher education.
The Registrar Office position allowed him to improve his face-to face-communication skills with students, he said. “It also showed me the ‘behind-the-scenes aspect of higher education—the connections among departments and the students. Often the Registrar’s Office is the go-to for student related inquiries. Using this knowledge, I was able to seamlessly transition my skills into the academic advising world.”
Schwer moved to the Undergraduate Academic Advising Center in 2023 and now advises students within the College of Business, College of Health and Human Services, and College of Arts and Sciences. His average day ranges from one to six contacts with students, often via email, but can include phone calls, in-person appointments and walk-ins. Spring semester is busy with transfer students seeking to start their educational career at Governors State in fall. Schwer provides a support system to students at every point in their journeys to ensure they stay on track for degree completion.
“Being part of students’ goals and aspirations is a great feeling. If I can become even a small percentage of that success, I believe I have succeeded in my job,” he said. “Higher education is a great career field because you are a part of building the future professionals of our community. No matter what role or position I hold, I can see myself in higher education for a long time.”