“I want students to feel empowered and know that they are smart enough.” As a Utah Valley University (UVU) Concurrent Enrollment advisor, Jennie Smith has definitely had a hand in helping students realize and know they are smart and capable enough.

Jennie was born and raised in a small Utah farm town called Cedar Fort. She graduated from Westlake High School, where she was on the cheerleading team. After graduation Jennie moved to Orem, Utah where she attended UVU part-time and worked for Eagle Mountain City as a clerk in the utilities department. There, she would assist city residents in paying their bills.

In 2014, Jennie left for Cleveland, Ohio to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Eighteen months later, Jennie returned to UVU to pursue a bachelor’s degree in communications with an emphasis in public relations. Jennie also applied to work for UVU and began part-time at One-Stop before switching to full-time a year later. In this position, Jennie would sign people in for their appointments with financial aid counselors, send electronic transcripts, and assist students in dropping classes.

Around the same time Jennie became full-time at One-Stop, she married her husband who she had met a year earlier during the summer. Together they had a little boy who is now two years old.

At the end of 2017, One-Stop was dissolved, and Jennie moved into the Financial Aid and Scholarships department as a counselor. She stayed in this position for four years until she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in December of 2021. Following her graduation, Jennie applied to work for Concurrent Enrollment and accepted a position as an Academic Advisor.

As an advisor, Jennie helps students understand financial aid and scholarships while assisting them in their schedules, classes, and questions. Jennie spoke about how she loves that her position gives her the chance to serve.

“There’s something about serving in your community that is empowering and there’s nothing better than serving others.”

Jennie continued, “What is cool is that you get to see that direct impact of how classes [are] affecting [students’] lives and how it is going to propel them in their futures and help them to become their best selves.” We at Concurrent Enrollment can see the direct impact Jennie has had on our team and all students who interact with her. We are grateful to have this Wolverine on our team!