Kelly Kaelin

As an Advising Fellow, I see my advising work as an extension of my time in the classroom. In my classes, I help students develop critical thinking, evaluate sources of information and articulate their opinions confidently—the exact same things that happen in an advising appointment. My primary goal is to encourage my advisees to explore their interests using the general curriculum and support them holistically as they progress towards a major declaration. My academic background is intentionally interdisciplinary and grounded in the liberal arts. I studied German literature and history at Washington and Lee University followed by my Ph.D. at Penn State in history and women’s studies. You can expect my classes to focus on themes of religion, gender and civic responsibility grounded in history but extending into the modern day. I’m also a Charlottesville native and love helping my advisees take advantage of this wonderful community and its surrounding natural beauty.