Brittany Pollard-Kosidowski
As a professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Development, Brittany Pollard-Kosidowski loves every single thing about her job. She enjoys the creativity required, as well as the commitment to helping, and everything in between. Learn more about her in this week’s Meet Our Faculty Feature.
What is it about the counseling field that initially drew you in—and ultimately keeps you interested?
The potential for, and significance of, connecting deeply and intimately with other human beings is the No. 1 feature of counseling work that drew me in and that keeps me engaged in this work today, nearly two decades after my journey began.
The constant evolution of this discipline keeps me interested in doing the work. The opportunities for continued learning are endless, which makes me excited to come to work every day!
Why do you enjoy teaching in this discipline?
This is where my heart and passion truly lie. Watching students develop in the holistic way that counseling requires—emotionally, mentally, intellectually, interpersonally—is a gift that just keeps on giving. There is never a dull moment in helping students to become counselors (master’s level) or counselor educators (doctoral level), and being able to show up as my authentic self in the classroom, connecting with students’ authentic selves, and figuring out this world together keeps me energized and passionate about the work.
I love that my job allows me to flex my creative muscle regularly and challenges me to continue growing alongside my students. A job that taps into everything I love—creativity, culture, connection, learning, and advocacy? I hit the jackpot!
What advice would you give students about how to succeed in college?
Show up every day as exactly who you are. Some days this will look like nailing an assignment or participating actively in a class discussion; other days this may look more like engaging in quiet reflection or needing help with a project. Professors can’t meet you where you’re at if you’re not honest about where that is in any given moment. Ask questions, share who you really are, and find a path that keeps your interest, sparks your curiosity, and nurtures your spirit.
Tell us something most of your students may not know about you.
I’ve recently renewed my interest in camping. I grew up camping, hiking, and backpacking all over the country with my dad, and after many years of letting that hobby fall to the wayside, I’ve recently gotten into it again with my husband and my best friends. I recently returned from a trip to the Gettysburg area and am excited for all the fun trips that lie ahead!