Alumni Spotlight - Shelby DeVore Hutcheson '10/M'13

Bobcat Bulletin Alumni Spotlight highlights alumni who give back to Frostburg in some way - time, talent, treasure or any combination. This edition of Bobcat Bulletin features Shelby DeVore Hutcheson '10/M'13.

Current City: Frostburg, Md.

Current Occupation: School Counselor, Allegany County Public Schools

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose Frostburg State University because it is home. I grew up attending "Kids Night Out" on Friday nights in elementary school, and taking swimming lessons at the Cordts Center (I have a core memory of "jumping" off the high diving board). My driver's education class was in Old Main. It only felt natural to go to FSU as a Frostburg native.

What do you do for fun?

Glamping and riding our side-by-side with my family, cheering on my kids playing sports, reading, puzzling, playing board and card games.

Which faculty and/or staff member influenced you as a student?

Dr. Kevin Peterson M'83 in the Psychology Department and Dr. Karla Diehl M'79, head of the School Counseling Program in the Education Department.

What is your favorite memory as a student?

My favorite memory was living with friends on Maple Street, hands down.

What advice would you give to a student currently studying your major?

Try everything, shadow everyone, experience all you can. Psychology is a limitless option, but it would be helpful to have an idea of where to go next, because you will need to take the next steps!

Why do you give back (time, talent and/or treasure) to FSU?

I support FSU through attending programs that are open to the public because I want my children to grow up in the same community that I did, surrounded by the University. Just like I had fun and educational experiences as a child on campus, I am able to share that with my children by attending all the wonderful events sponsored by the CLC, the STEM festival, Girls in Sports Day, etc. It means a lot to me to have these available to my own kids.

Tell us about a class or activity at FSU that has had a surprising effect on your life.

SCCO 625 Counselor as a Person with Dr. Diehl - it was amazing! We learned so much about ourselves, and our world around us in such a short time. It was intimate, fun, and impactful. The individuals in my cohort were all very close knit throughout the two years while we were in the School Counseling program, so it truly felt like a little vacation each day.

List any professional or personal accomplishments we can celebrate with you.

This year I am finally celebrating living and working (and my children attending school) in the same ZIP code! To sweeten the pot, I am now working at Beall Elementary (a walking field trip distance away!) and have already been able to work with Dr. Sarah O'Neal '04/M'05 at the Children's Literature Center to get some of our student groups there for a Leadership Club. As a School Counselor, community stakeholders like Dr. O'Neal are vital in enriching our schools and programs!