CBS People: Alyssa Callen

January 14, 2019

Alyssa Callen

This recent grad is continuing her time at U with a role in CBS


Name: Alyssa Callen

Where is your hometown?
I am from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. (No, not the same thing as Menomonie – Menomonee Falls is right near Milwaukee!) I lived there my whole life before deciding to come to the University of Minnesota for my undergraduate studies.

What is your role in CBS?
I am the Graduate Program Coordinator for the Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics (also called BMBB for short). I have various tasks, including recruiting prospective BMBB PhD students, assisting students and faculty members in coordinating meetings and seminars, and making sure that all students’ requirements are being met to remain in the BMBB PhD program.

What did you do before joining CBS? What led you to this position?
I recently graduated in May of 2018 with my Bachelors of Science in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. I worked in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions for two years as a tour guide and absolutely loved it! It was there that I learned my love for higher education. I enjoyed being able to help prospective high school students during an exciting transition in their lives. Eventually, I want to use the experience I’ve gained in admissions as well as in the BMBB department to pursue a Master’s degree in counseling. I hope to be an academic advisor one day.

What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
My favorite hobbies include spending time with my friends and exploring the Twin Cities! Even though I have lived here for four years, I still feel like there is so much to do and see. My favorite places are Minnehaha Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. I also love finding fun, hole-in-the-wall places to eat, and when it’s warm out, you can find me sitting by Bde Maka Ska reading a book in the sun!