Dr. Liz Hathaway is a supporter of the Mocs women’s basketball team. Photo by Angela Foster.
If you’re on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga campus, it won’t take long for you to run into Dr. Liz Hathaway.
Not only is she a UC Foundation associate professor in the Department of Health and Human
Performance, but she also teaches cycle classes at the Aquatic and Recreation Center, is a staunch supporter of the Mocs women’s basketball team and a faculty-in-residence member in West Campus student housing.
Hathaway said she finds mentorship to be a powerful experience while in college. Karsen Murphy, a recent UTC graduate and former Mocs women’s basketball player, shared the same sentiment. Hathaway has been Murphy’s mentor since 2022.
“Dr. H (Hathaway) is someone who listens to everything that’s on my mind when I have so much to say,” Murphy said.
She shared that Hathaway has been a resource in many areas of her life, whether it’s academics, sports, relationships or her faith.
“I wish Dr. H was in my life my first year on campus because I think that it would have gone a lot smoother,” Murphy said. “Being new is hard. I encourage first-year students to find that person that they feel comfortable with and someone they’re willing to learn from at the same time.”
In the spirit of mentorship, Hathaway sat down for a Q&A and offered advice to new Mocs students.
Dr. Liz Hathaway, right, and Karsen Murphy
Can you explain what you do?
“I’m a faculty-in-residence, which means I am a professor who also happens to live in a residence hall. My full-time job is teaching exercise and health science students in the Department of Health and Human Performance.
“Instead of going to my own house then coming back and having an eight-to-five job, I live in West Campus. That allows me to build relationships with students, mentor them and help them learn to form connections with faculty, which is really important for their success. It’s a dream job for me because I get to mentor and guide students closely.”
What should incoming first-year students know about living on campus?
“One key thing is understanding that if you’re living in West Campus, you’ll likely share a room with another first-year student. That means you’re going to be living in the same space with somebody. That is a huge adjustment for the majority of people who have never lived with someone that’s not family. I really advise students to do that. After that, get your own room, but during your first year it’s so good.
“I also encourage students to have a growth mindset. There may be stumbles along the way, but that doesn’t mean you’re not supposed to be here. It’s part of the process and that’s why it’s really important to find mentors.”
What advice would you give to first-year students about making the most of their first week on campus?
“Don’t stay in your room the first night, and don’t stay in your room the second night. The first week is full of events and activities designed to help you meet people and form connections. Even if you’re introverted, push yourself to participate because everyone is looking for friends.
“I love being there in West Campus during that time. There’s vulnerability and that feeling of ‘Wow, this is really happening.’ And I’m like, ‘Alright, cookout. Let’s go to a cookout.’
“We have a gazillion events the first week, so try things that you maybe have never done previously. Building those relationships early is crucial to avoid loneliness later on.”
What about forming healthy habits?
“Creating a balanced schedule is so important. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating regular meals and staying active. It’s easy to fall into bad habits when you’re away from home for
Dr. Liz Hathaway
the first time. Exercise regularly, even if it’s just walking with friends, and try to eat healthily. Also, establish a study schedule so you’re not cramming before exams.”
What should students do if they encounter academic or personal challenges?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. In my younger days, I spent a lot of time trying to figure stuff out myself. I would’ve saved some time if I had just asked questions. It still takes a village, even if you’re an adult.
“Utilize resources like the writing center or the math plaza and attend professors’ office hours. Building relationships with faculty can provide you with guidance and support. Don’t have the mindset of, ‘I don’t want to go to office hours because I can do this myself,’ or ‘I don’t want the processor to think I’m dumb.’ We are here to help you succeed. That is our job.
“Mentors are important, especially for first-generation college students. They can offer advice and perspective that you might not get elsewhere.”
Any final tips for freshmen living on campus?
“Remember that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Everyone feels like that at first. Focus on building your support system, which includes mentors, peers and possibly volunteering or getting involved in student organizations. These connections can provide emotional support and advice throughout your college journey.”
What’s your favorite “secret spot” on campus?
“The West Campus courtyard. There are always students out there playing, studying, laying out and doing all the college student things.”
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Department of Health and Human Performance
Dr. Liz Hathaway has been Karsen Murphy’s mentor since 2022.
