Kristin Farrell

Kristin

Farrell

Senior Academic & Career Coach

person with light skin, short cropped hair, heathered green shirt smiles at camera

How to Pronounce My Name

person with light skin and short bobbed hair stands holding colorful flowers

Pronouns

She/her

Education

B.S. in Education with Majors in History and Social Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
Masters in Liberal Studies (MLS) in Educational Policy and Student & Community Engagement from the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities.

Hometown Info

I was born near Chicago, IL but grew up in Duluth, MN. After living in Madison and Milwaukee Wisconsin for several years, I moved to the Twin Cities to be closer to family and the outdoor pursuits I love.

My Career Story

My first career was teaching social studies in high school. I went into teaching because I had always wanted to be a “helper” and build relationships with others. I never really knew what I could do besides teach. I learned that while I loved my students, I didn’t love the long, lonely hours of grading and planning that went into that job. I’m grateful to have shifted to a job where I get to spend most of my time having great conversations with really interesting students at the University of MN (and not doing nearly as much grading)!

What’s important to me:

Several years ago I came up with 3 things I wanted to focus on in my life:
- More meaningful connections
- More laughter
- More travel

Personality Typing

My Harry Potter House is Hufflepuff and I am a Pisces.

Interests and Hobbies

When I moved to the Twin Cities, I started playing ultimate frisbee as a way to get out and meet new people. I ended up getting placed on a team with my (now) husband and 20 years later, we still play together and now our teenagers play on our team as well!

I enjoy all things active and outdoors (I love hiking in National Parks, but also love a good run, weight workout, or yoga sesh). I grew up sailing on Lake Superior and adore being near water, especially the ocean. At home I am often doing some art with my kids, gardening, cooking, or reading under a blanket on the couch with my orange cat on my lap.

I am afraid of...

Heights, cockroaches, and the effects of global warming.

Best piece of advice for students exploring majors

Finding a major that fits you can be hard work, but it can also be fun, too! It is a process where you spend more time thinking about what makes you, you and what unique skills and interests you have and want to develop. Considering classes, work, volunteering, and hobbies that excite you is a great place to start. Don't be afraid to try various majors "on" to see how they feel.