Sarah Lindholm
CFANS Academic Advisor
Pronouns
She/her/hers
For appointments, call
130 Coffey Hall
Advises for undergraduate programs in:
Agricultural and Food Business Management
Agricultural Communication and Marketing
Agricultural Education
Food Science
Nutrition
About Me
Hello Students!
I was born and raised in Manitowoc, WI, but I chose the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for my college journey as a first generation college student. It was the best decision I have ever made! With the beautiful small-town feel of the St. Paul Campus and the city-feel of the Minneapolis campus, I truly had the best of both worlds as a student (and also as a staff member!) I hold an undergraduate degree in Nutrition, focused on dietetics and an M.Ed. in Youth Development Leadership. Both degrees are from the U. I bleed maroon and gold! My first position outside of college was within CFANS Admissions as a Freshman Admissions Counselor. That sparked my passion for working with undergraduate students and helping support them as they navigate their education and time here as a Gopher. I have now been working in CFANS for over 10 years!
While my mom grew up on a farm, I myself did not have a knowledge base of agriculture, nor did I participate in 4H or FFA. Not having this background does not hold one back from having a passion for agriculture. One of my favorite pieces of working with each of these varying major programs is that I get to learn about each student and their particular story/journey. Every student is unique and has different interest areas. I want to help them find their blueprint for the future and help them realize that they are improving lives by working within food, nutrition, and agriculture as these are truly grand challenges in our society.
Outside of work, I have many interests and random talents. I love fall, desserts (specifically cupcakes and donuts), holstein cows, crafting, reading, music, and movies. I’ve also been trying to get outdoors more through walking, hiking, biking, and also kayaking. I have a son, Ryker, who is my world and keeps me busy! Talent wise, I played the string bass for 8 years and once attempted to grow a watermelon on my apartment balcony (you can ask me about the story sometime!). My favorite discovered talent is that I can make pancakes in the shape of Goldy the Gopher! Ski-U-Mah!
Advising Philosophy
I consider advising more as a privilege, not my profession. Students are what get me out of bed each and every day. Their enthusiasm, energy, uniqueness, and passion truly inspire me. My philosophy is that I am here to guide each individual through, not only their academic journey, but the trials and tribulations that they will experience while in college. I am that approachable and enthusiastic lifeline that will help students acknowledge their personal strengths, establish goals, and purpose, while having them reflect on their lived experiences. My goal is to be that advocate for students and to ensure that they feel they gained a new nugget of knowledge each time they leave my office, whether it is about academics or their personal selves. There is power in being patient and allowing the students to drive the conversation. Thank you, students, for giving me energy! I hope I return the favor and aim for you to leave with a smile on your face!
Professional Development Highlights and Focus Areas
Awards:
- CFANS Student Board Outstanding Club Advisor - 2017
- CFANS Exemplary Staff Award - 2021
Equity and diversity related development:
- University of Minnesota Basic and Advanced Equity and Diversity Certificates
- GLBTA Ally Training
Professional Experiences:
- Presented on Utilization of On-Campus Resources in Student Recruitment (NAADA Conference 2014)
- Cluster Facilitator at LeaderShape 2019
- Served on the Academic Advising Network (AAN) Board 2019-22
- AAN Co-Chair 2020-21; Tate Conference Chair 2021
- Co-Advisor of the CFANS Undergraduate Student Board
