I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

Like the oak trees at Toomer’s Corner, Laura Olds’ Auburn roots run deep. Her grandfather, Wartan Jemian, founded the college’s materials engineering program and her parents, Bob and Connie Jemian, met in the university’s marching band while attending Auburn in the mid-’70s. Laura also met her husband, Chris, in Auburn, and both currently work in the college, with Chris serving as an information technology specialist for Network Services while Laura serves as an academic adviser for Student Services.

Because her Auburn roots run so deep, so does her passion for the university, the college and what she loves most — working with the students.

As an academic adviser, she specializes in serving the transfer student population, along with other non-traditional students.

“Every student has a different situation, whether they’re coming from a community college or they are a veteran,” Laura said. “These students often feel they have a complex situation, and I enjoy bringing some clarity to them. I enjoy making an impact.”

Olds serves the pre-engineering student population, and she thoroughly enjoys helping them move into their major and inevitably graduate.

“The students can have a lot of questions, whether it be about credits or classes, and I enjoy stepping in and being their advocate,” Laura said. “I just love it.”