Jonathan Fincher
Senior Academic Counselor - OU Scholars
Pronouns: he/him/his
Department: OU Scholars
Phone: 405-325-2851
Email: jonathan.fincher@ou.edu
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology: Abilene Christian University
- Master of Science in Psychological Sciences: University of Texas at Dallas
About:
Academic advisement is an intentional time set aside for students to reflect, gain information about their academic path and feel heard. I believe there is an element of the sacred in our work as advisors: when meeting with students, we have opportunity to be completely present with them. When we are at our best, our students can recognize their advisor is listening with intention and they have an advocate on campus that has a desire for them to reach success. For me, the joy of advising occurs when I witness a student come into my office anxious or confused and leave with calm confidence. The university provides students with a professional who shares in feelings, reminds students they’re not alone, someone they can come to and feel heard. We are the “front line” of OU and I find it a privilege to serve the students.
What was the moment you felt the greatest Sooner pride?
The day I realized I enjoy helping young adults on their life journey
What do you like most about working with new students?
Witnessing and sharing part in the student’s transformation toward self-actualization
What advice would you give to OU first year students?
The first year is a time of transitions and self-learning, and it is perfectly normal to not have everything figured out right away.
