Tracy Wheeler is an academic advisor at Arapahoe Community College in Littleton, Colorado. Wheeler loves her job as an advisor, but strives for the importance of self-care and hobbies outside of work. She aims to be the best mother to her two kids, a loving wife to her husband, and her pets. 

“I think my main hobby are my kids…That’s my overall hobby is being attentive to their needs,” Wheeler said. Two years ago, Wheeler re-entered the workforce. Daily, she encounters a passion for helping students achieve their lifelong goals. She has become significantly involved within the ACC community by guiding and supporting students of all ages. Wheeler helps students understand what it means to seek academic advising. 

“The overall definition of advising is preparing a student to create their goal, their academic and career goals, and to create a relationship with the student,” Wheeler said. She helps students understand and encourages them by leading those who may not know what they want to do. Wheeler aims to help students to find their “lightbulb moment.” 

“I love when a student comes in…and they were so passionate…they knew exactly what they wanted to do… “I had chills up and down my arms from just hearing the excitement and the passion that this student had for their career,” Wheeler said. In addition, Wheeler emphasizes the importance of connecting with students, which helps develop a strong and comfortable relationship with an advisor. As Wheeler sees students daily, her close relationship with her kids allows her to understand the concerns many students have. 

“My mothering background gives me the empathy and compassion to understand the students and approach the students in a way that makes them feel comfortable with me,” Wheeler said. She has empathy and compassion for all students. Wheeler’s impact at ACC allows students to feel comfortable in their own body, and to not be afraid about seeing an academic advisor.