My Advisor

I got news this morning that my college advisor passed away this weekend, he was only 53. It was so sudden, he was still teaching courses at my college.

He was the person who got me interested in community development, which I majored in. I graduated last spring after being in his seinor "colloquim" course. He even planned a dinner at his house celebrating our graduation. He was such a "character" I thought he was absolutely amazing with such a passion for his subject.

I have to say not everyone was a fan, but me and another friend from college thought he was the best. I would go to him on advice about everything, he was like my second dad. I had been in contact with him concerning my job search, and was one of my references. I have 3 applications out, that have him listed as a reference.

I feel so cheated! I was looking forward to attending his courses as an alumni speaker, he always invited alumni back to speak to his classes. He kept up on marriages, births, job promotions of alumni and shared that with the department.

I was looking forward to telling him when I found my first job...now that chance is gone. I was hoping that I would have had many more years with him.

This is the first person that I've been REALLY close to that has died... I have to say I'm feeling anger the most. Is that ok?

I'm really sorry about your loss Katt. All your feelings about this are ok, including anger, and it's ok to feel that the most. Don't judge yourself for any feelings you may experience about your loss (((((((((((((( Katt ))))))))))))))

(((hugs))) Yes, anger is very much part of the grieving process. This is so heartbreaking! You will still make him proud, but it will be more difficult for you to realize that. Will they have a memorial time at the college, (for all the students to work through their grief,) or grief counseling?

Thanks fuzzy & Sky. They will be having a memorial service in 2 weeks.

(((((((SpazKatt)))))))))

Don't know what to say that would be at all comforting but I'm sorry you didn't get to spend any more time with him. Never seems to happen that way sometimes.

Thanks canders, pretty much just saying SOMETHING is comforting. Until now, I've never lost anyone I was close to, and I was always afraid of saying the wrong thing to someone who had experinced a loss. Now I know anything is better than nothing.

(((((((SpazKatt)))))))))

I sympathize with you in your time of loss...

Thankyou

They announced that there will be a memorial service held by my university in 2 weeks.

Here is an excerpt that a former student of his and mentor of mine that I met through him wrote.

His passion for the field and desire to educate others was an inspiration to all of us. Most of us will remember him as the first person to capture our minds at XXXX. If it wasn’t for his slide shows or walking tours, most of us wouldn’t have found ourselves in his office enrolling in the major. His commitment to the students went above and beyond the duties of a professor. He became our friend, mentor and advisor.

Hello SpazKatt.
I am sorry for your sorrow at this time. Take care of yourself. Soidhonia