Ivanovich “Ivan” Vargas gives his all as an academic adviser for the College of Business and Analytics, colleagues say, uplifting and engaging them and empowering them to succeed.
“He is compassionate and truly cares about his students and their academic career and goals,” said Cristina Castillo, coordinator of the Hispanic/Latino Resource Center. “He advises them with care and accountability and helps them take ownership of their studies and educates them to think critically about their courses. He is truthful and engaging, and students can relate to him.”
Vargas is also very collaborative, working with the Hispanic/Latino Resource Center and other departments and organizations on and off campus to enhance a student’s college experience, she said.
Get to know: IVAN VARGAS
Name: Ivanovich “Ivan” Vargas
Department and job title: College of Business and Analytics, academic adviser
Years at SIU Carbondale: 11 as of August, including 7 as a student.
Give us the elevator pitch for your job.
My main goal is making sure my students are taking the right courses to graduate! I also inform them about deadlines and grade requirements and coordinate with faculty and staff regarding class offerings and planning social events for the students.
What is the favorite part of your job?
I enjoy the personal interactions I have with my students and admire seeing them grow as young business professionals throughout the years. It is easy to relate to them since I am enrolled as a business student, and we are taking some of the same classes.
Why did you choose SIU?
During high school, I was looking for a big university in a small town, a school that offered many programs that I was interested in and one that had a marching band. I started my studies in architecture and then switched to economics and photography. I played as a trombonist with the Marching Salukis for seven years. In 2018, I completed my master’s degree in economics, and I began my role as an adviser within COBA the following January. Then I decided to enroll as a student again and pursue degrees in finance and criminology. What is it Henry Ford said? “Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”
If you could live in a different era, such as the 1950s or 1970s or even a different time period of history, when would it be and why?
I just started watching “Stranger Things,” currently in season 3, and I love the vibes from the 1980s. The music is good, and I definitely like the fashion of that era.
What is your favorite song and why do you like it?
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers. It’s my go-to karaoke song. When the first strokes of the guitar start playing, the crowd gets all wild up. IYKYK (If you know, you know).
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