Five Questions With…

With this issue, Wisconsin Week is introducing this feature, in which we’ll ask a faculty or staff member, chosen at random, to give readers a peek into their jobs and make the university, with its thousands of employees, seem a little smaller.

Meet our first subject, Karen Thompson, an undergraduate adviser for the Department of Spanish and Portuguese. She helps students declare majors and advises them on the courses they need for graduation, as well as courses they might just enjoy.

1. How long have you worked for UW–Madison?

I have been at the University of Wisconsin since my freshman year here in 1996. My first nonstudent position with the university began on Jan. 8, 2001, in the Division of University Housing. I began my current position on Dec. 1, 2005.

2. What made you want to work at UW–Madison?

I loved this university as a student and, quite frankly, never wanted to leave!

3. What has made you want to continue working at UW–Madison?

I have worked with and for some amazing people, and I absolutely love working with students.

4. What is your favorite memory of UW–Madison?

There are so many! I think I have to go back to the end of my school days here and say that sitting on Abe’s lap shortly before my graduation would be at the top of the list.

5. If a friend or family member who had never been to campus before was coming for a visit, where would you take them and why?

The Memorial Union — not just the terrace, but the whole building. The architecture is incredible, and the history is quite fascinating.