Current position: Graduate Assistant, Office of Community and Ethical Standards, Clemson University

Past leadership positions: Executive Director, UI Associated Residence Halls (ARH)

Graduated from the UI: in 2013 with a BA in Communication Studies

“There were so many great changes we were able to make in my two years on ARH. I’m very proud of how we positively changed the experience of students living in the residence halls and how the organization has grown over the past several years,” said Andy Kutcher, University of Iowa and Division of Student Life alumnus. As Executive Director of Associated Residence Halls (ARH), some of his best memories were making a number of lifelong connections. “I also enjoyed being able to form mentorship relationships with members of the ARH Senate or Hall Associations. Being able to help them reach their goals was really special to me.”

Kutcher is currently enrolled in the graduate program at Clemson University. When reflected on his ARH experience, he shared that it helped him realize his career goals.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. It was my first real glimpse into the field of Student Affairs. I had such a great experience that I wanted others to have that as well. I also give a lot of credit to my ARH advisor, Ryan McFadden. He really was the first one to introduce me to the idea of Student Affairs. He was a mentor to me throughout my time in ARH as well as afterwards. Even today he is a great friend and someone I know I can turn to for advice or guidance.“

Kutcher’s advice to current UI students is to “not be afraid to take chances. Some of the greatest things I accomplished during my time in ARH started with a random email to an administrator. Many of those emails opened the doors for conversations I never thought I’d have when I first got to college. Don’t be afraid to ask, the worst they can say is no.”