CofC Faces to Know: Arianne Bauserman

Name: Arianne Bauserman

Hometown: Woodbridge, Virginia

Education: B.S. in Recreation Therapy from Radford University

Job title: REACH Program Support Coordinator | Sophomore Cohort and Mentor Liaison

How long have you worked at the College? Seven years (July 2016)

What are your job responsibilities? I support our sophomore cohort in all areas of the program, including academics, socialization, independent living and career development. I also oversee the volunteer mentor program and am the staff advisor for the NJAC (Not Just Another Club) club.

What do you like most about your job? Working with students – traditional students and those in the REACH Program. I love watching them grow into more independent and confident young adults.

What question do you get asked most in your job and what’s your typical answer? “What should I say or do [insert situation]?” The answer changes with each student and situation. I generally return the question and allow students to identify options, problem solve and determine what will work best for them.

What’s your favorite location on campus and why? Green Way. I love walking under the trees and admiring the historic houses. It truly allows you to feel like you are far away from your office and the busy city.

What are your hobbies? My husband and children get most of my free time, but we love being outdoors. Bike rides, boating in the harbor or visiting local tourist attractions.

What personal and/or professional accomplishment are you most proud of? It might seem small, but I am humbled whenever I run into a former student, or client from previous jobs, and they stop me and share about memories made with me. It’s a reminder that your everyday work is much bigger than clocking in and out.

Name a creative work (book, movie, performance, etc.) you enjoyed recently – why? I’ve been missing going to live theater performances, so I purchased season tickets to the Best of Broadway shows this year at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. Each performance has been wonderful, and I’ve attended each show with someone different to mix it up.

What was your favorite TV show growing up? Saved by the Bell

What’s on your bucket list? Walking, not running, the Cooper River Bridge run. Not this year, but at some point.

What is something your campus colleagues would be surprised to know about you? I’m allergic to bees but used to be an amateur beekeeper, and used it as a behavioral intervention activity, too. I love learning about them and educating others. The Charleston Area Beekeepers Association (CABA) is a great resource for anyone interested.

What was your first job? I was a summer camp counselor for children ages 6–12 with intellectual disabilities. I had been volunteering with schools since I was in elementary school, but this opened my eyes to new opportunities and the world of recreation therapy.

What’s your favorite Lowcountry restaurant? I love to eat and try new foods, so it’s difficult to pick one restaurant. Coda Del Pesce on the Isle of Palms is amazing, though!

Describe your perfect day: Waking up after 8 a.m., a big breakfast with my family and a boat day on the water.