When you step into the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) Advising Center on the 10th floor of OMB, you’ll find yourself near a striking mural that leads you to Academic Success Coordinator John Stubblefield’s welcoming office. With a warm smile and an open door, he embodies the supportive spirit of the advising center. An advisor for the past four years, Stubblefield views his role as more than just a job—it’s a chance to guide and uplift the next generation of Gators.
“Helping students succeed and ensuring they feel valued is what makes my work fulfilling,”
he shared. “Nothing beats
seeing the smiles on their faces as they walk through my door.” Supporting over 400 students is no small feat, but Stubblefield thrives by crafting
individualized degree plans that align with each student’s unique aspirations. “Every
student has their own path,” he explained. “My goal is to tailor my advice to what
works best for them, whether that’s exploring career options, pursuing a passion for
the arts, or something else.”
And his commitment extends beyond academic guidance. Stubblefield offers a safe space for students facing challenges, lending a compassionate ear when they feel overwhelmed or discouraged. “Some students come in on the verge of tears,” he recalled. “In those moments, I focus on listening and lifting their spirits. I want every student to leave my office feeling a little lighter and a lot more supported.”
Collaboration is a cornerstone of Stubblefield’s success. He works closely with faculty to keep curricula relevant and connects students to resources, including study abroad programs and veteran services. Through these efforts, he ensures that students are equipped to thrive academically and personally.
For Stubblefield, the pinnacle of his work is watching students cross the graduation stage. “Knowing I played a small role in their journey is the best feeling in the world,” he said. “At UHD, we’re all about finishing strong, and I’m proud to help students achieve that milestone.”
And Stubblefield’s friendly face isn’t the only one you’ll encounter at the advising center. You’ll also meet Vanessa Rojas, a UHD alumna and first generation college graduate who now serves as the Director of CHSS Advising. Involved with advising and student success for 17 years, Rojas now leads a team of advisors in the same open common area a where you can sit, relax, study, even have a snack. Most of the advising team are UHD alumni or first generation students.
This shared experience helps her team connect deeply with the Gator students. “We’ve
walked the same halls, faced the same challenges, and now we’re here to guide them.
Our goal is to build trust, so students know they can rely on us to help them succeed.”
And her advising philosophy goes beyond selecting classes. “We treat degree plans like puzzles, helping students optimize their coursework to meet their goals, whether that’s adding minors, preparing for grad school, or exploring career paths. There’s never just one way to reach success, and we’re here to show them all their options as Gators and understanding anything possible.”
Rojas also emphasizes the importance of networking and volunteering, though her message to students is simple: “Come see us. Whether it’s a quick question or a detailed plan, we’re here to guide you. You don’t have to figure it out alone.”