Ashley York, PhD, is the Coordinator of Academic Advising and Student Services on the Purdue Animal Sciences Department’s Student Services Team.
Ashley attended Purdue University as an undergraduate student and received her bachelor’s degree in agricultural education with a minor in animal sciences. She completed her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision at Ball State University. She also received her doctoral degree from the University of Missouri.
As the Coordinator of Academic Advising and Student Services, Ashley collaborates with many students.
“My job provides leadership for directing academic advising of plans of study, class registration and recruitment of new students. I support and facilitate faculty/staff advisors by providing training, materials and tools needed to deliver uniform student advising to enhance student retention and academic success,” Ashley explained. “I work closely with the department’s Undergraduate Programs Coordinator and the Office of Academic Programs in the Purdue College of Agriculture on policy changes and curricula development and other academic items. I also help with visiting area schools to promote Purdue Animal Sciences to potential prospective students.”
Ashley also teaches AGR 11400: Introduction to Animal Sciences Academic Programs and leads a study abroad program to Greece during spring break. She has also co-led a trip to Italy before.
Ashley has an advising philosophy that she follows when working with her students.
“I strive to help the student body focus on finding their right ‘fit.’ It is important for students to understand that options are out there and help is available. This is a vital component in the development of our students and societal needs. As an advisor, having a plan for our students and sticking to it will help these students reach their full potential,” Ashley said. “Students will be given the tools to become successful in life. It will be part of my responsibility to show them how to lead with those tools given. These students will have the ability to become independent and possibly be more willing to explore their personal growth areas. This will allow students to seek their potential, in all aspects, for success. Communication must be present between all parties involved with the success of our students. Included in my role as an advisor is ensuring that staff members and myself work closely together to develop tools that will help promote the success of our students. This will enhance the atmosphere in education and help make it more attainable for our students.”
According to Ashley, she chose her current position because she enjoys working with students and helping them find their highest potential.
“I love to learn, and I learn so much from our students!” Ashley said. “Seeing students find their ‘aha’ moment is so awesome!”
Ashley also likes working for the animal sciences department.
“The students, staff and faculty are like a family and supportive of each other! It is such a wonderful working environment,” Ashley explained.
Ashley also had advice for students.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance,” Ashley said. “We are all here to help!”
Ashley has twin sons that are 10 years old and a stepdaughter who just turned 20. Ashley’s hobbies include working on her family’s farm with their beef cattle, reading and attending any of her children’s events. Locally, she and her family enjoy eating at Ripple & Company and Christo’s. She and her family love traveling to Disney World.
