Dylan Shaffer, a 2020 marketing graduate, has started the school year as a new admissions counselor for student-athletes at Bluffton University.
During the summer after graduation, Shaffer worked a part-time job close to his Shelby, Ohio, home. He wanted to be able to save up some money by living and working close to home until he found another job that would help him further his career.
“Any part-time job right now is a good job,” said Shaffer. “Anything that you can get around home, if you’re trying to save money, is really good for you. It’s a little uneasy in the world right now, but eventually, things are gonna work out and everything happens for a reason.”
He had conversations with his parents that if a possible dream opportunity, not necessarily a dream job, opened up then he would want to pursue that. When the admissions counselor position opened, he was eager to apply.
Dylan Shaffer ’20 is a new admissions counselor for student-athletes. Photo by Olivia Tennefoss.
“I think this is one of those opportunities to come back to Bluffton and give back to the university and everything, for all they’ve done for me,” said Shaffer.
Shaffer felt like he was in an uncomfortable situation because he graduated during a pandemic where most businesses were unable to hire new employees, but with the aid of family, he tried to stay relaxed during a high-stress time with a difficult job prospect.
Shaffer said having familiar faces and knowing the names of the staff was extremely helpful during the interviewing process. It allowed him to feel more comfortable then and eager to have the opportunity to work with them.
He has enjoyed getting to work with the Admissions staff. Shaffer has found them to be supportive and easygoing as he learns the ropes and behinds-the-scenes with paperwork.
Shaffer said he enjoys having the opportunity to be on campus and remain in the community and interact with current students. As far as the future goes, Shaffer believes he would like to stay close and work for the university.
“A lot of the faculty and staff know me, so every time they see me, it’s good to have somebody else smiling back at you through a mask,” said Shaffer.
