Aaron Bernhardt
(618) 650-3701
abernha@siue.edu
Education
Master of Arts, Teaching English as a Second Language, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Bachelor of Arts, Business Administration with a Minor in Information Systems Management, Blackburn College
Professional Background
How long have you been at SIUE?
Including graduate school and work, I have been at SIUE off and on since January 2020. I began working in this position in May of 2022.
How did you get here?
Everyone in my family has attended SIUE at some point in their lives. I began my journey with the Institution in January 2020 and fell in love with the campus atmosphere and community.
What do you love most about working at SIUE?
I love the atmosphere and how easy it is to meet someone new on campus! The campus is beautiful, and I also love the diversity and the shared desire for continued growth and improvement.
What are you most passionate about professionally?
Professionally I am passionate about Student Success, Student Belonging, and Community Support. I believe wholeheartedly in assisting students build both personally and professionally over their time in Academia.
What are your primary duties in your current position?
To advise, support, counsel, and assist undergraduate students in reaching their short and long-term goals. Also helping students establish/develop life-skills that benefit them both in personal & professional life.
Personal Information
Where can we find you when you’re not working?
When I am not working, I am typically at home. I am a very home-body type of person. I spend a lot of time with my cat, or on my computer playing video games and doing schoolwork.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small farming town called Carlinville, Illinois.
Any volunteer activities you’re crazy about? Any non-profits you love?
I volunteer tutoring ESL speakers in my spare time. Whether that is through online platforms, or in-person sessions. I often spend many weekends helping International Students, and their families, with developing their English Language Skills.
Organizations and Highlights
I am currently a member of two Educational Organizations. I am a member of NACADA (National Academic Advising Association) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) International Association.
