Office of Undergraduate Education
University Advising
Office of Undergraduate Education

Academic Advisor
mcgillja@msu.edu
Since June 2020, James (he/him) rejoined the MSU Spartan community—from proud alumni to a full-time professional member—as a program coordinator at the MSU Extension 4-H Youth Programs in Genesee county. James is entering his third school year as an academic advisor with University Advising. He has a Bachelor of Arts from MSU and a Master of Business. James has demonstrated a track record of unwavering passion for fostering career and college readiness, especially for minoritized K-16 student population throughout his professional career.
Michigan State University 426 Auditorium Road East Lansing, MI 48824
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SPARTANS WILL|© Michigan State University|
Being an advisor gives me the opportunity to share my story and connect with students and let them know that I’ve been in their shoes before. Sometimes students need to hear “it’s going to work out, I went through the exact same thing."
When I hear “Spartans Will” I think of the things that may seem out of reach, impossible, or unimaginable. But as a Spartan, I’ve learned patience, persistence and resilience. What seems unattainable at the time is within reach, it just takes more will.
My father told me don’t focus so much on the destination but enjoy the journey ahead.
I came in as an 18-year-old, first generation student not knowing what to expect. But over the years, I discovered who I was. I was faced with situations where I had to dig deep. Undergrad prepared me for life and the world beyond college.