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USD Foundation & Alumni Association: What first inspired you to become a school counselor?
Hannah Helseth: I was inspired by my desire to work with Native youth - it's always been my dream. I originally planned on law school so that I could work in Tribal court, but my path shifted, and I'm grateful it brought me here.

U: In one word, what fuels your passion for working with students?
HH: Resiliency. It's what I see in them every day and what keeps me committed to this work.

U: What a "spark moment" with a student you'll never forget?
HH: A student once wrote me a two-page letter telling me I was the only adult in the school who made her feel valued. I listened to her without judgement and supported her through her toughest times. I plan to attend her graduation next spring.

U: What's one belief that guides how you support students?
HH: I believe every student deserves to feel seen, heard and valued. This belief guides how I listen, advocate and support them every day.

U: Who helped shape your approach to counseling or student support?
HH: I don't believe it's any one person. It's a combination of every positive peer, friend, parent, teacher, professor and even previous students I've worked with. My own experiences as a student and how I wanted to be treated continue to guide how I show up for students today.

U: What USD experience prepared you most for working in education?
HH: Taking Sociology of Education along with most of my Native American studies courses prepared me the most. They gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges students face and the historical trauma that impacts Native communities today.

U: Favorite USD spot where you used to reset or reflect.
HH: The Native American Cultural Center (NACC) was my go-to spot. There were always snacks, resources and the incredible support that Megan and John provided. I don't think I would have been as successful without them, and USD is lucky to have the NACC for Native students.

U: How is one professor or mentor who helped ignite your passion for helping others?
HH: Dr. Elise Boxer helped me find my passion for learning and inspired me to dive deeper into Native American issues. Her passion for her work was contagious, and she held cultural workshops where we could learn skills like sewing ribbon skirts, beading and more, which made a lasting impact on me.

U: What's one strategy you use to help students feel seen and heard?
HH: Listening. That is it. The power of active listening is key to my role.

U: Biggest lesson you've learned from your students?
HH: They tell me how it is, without holding back, and that has taught me the value of accepting and understanding every student as they are.

U: In one word: the toughest part of being a school counselor.
HH: Balance.

U: In one word: the most best part.
HH: Connection.

U: A USD memory that still influences how you show up for students.
HH: A USD memory that still influences me is receiving a starquilt in recognition of my achievements and being honored as a Native student. It reminds me of the importance of acknowledgment and support.

U: What's one change you wish more school would embrace?
HH: I wish more schools would embrace culturally responsive practices and spaces where all students feel seen, valued and supported.

U: Early-morning hallway energy or end-of-day quiet moments?
HH: Early morning hallway energy!

U: What's your go-to drink or snack on busy school days?
HH: I have to have my morning Alani to function.

U: What helps you recharge after supporting others all day?
HH: Driving home listening to my favorite songs.

U: What's your "student success" superpower?
HH: Seeing potential in students before they see it in themselves.

U: What's one skill every school counselor should master?
HH: Every school counselor should master listening, truly hearing students, understanding their needs and responding with empathy and care.

U: One word your students would use to describe you.
HH: Understanding.

U: What's a misconception about school counselors you wish would disappear?
HH: I wish people knew that school counselors are more than just "guidance" staff, and we do more than just help with schedules.

U: Favorite season for school activities or student engagement.
HH: Favorite season has to be fall - there is always so much going on!

U: What student-centered goal are you excited to ignite next?
HH: My goal is to make Duel Credit a normal part of students' academic journeys, not just an option for a few.

U: In one word: the future you hope to help create for your students.
HH: Successful.

U: What's one issue facing students will you always advocate for?
HH: I'll always advocate for equitable access to opportunities and resources so that every student can succeed, feel supported and reach their full potential.

U: What's a fun fact your students would be surprised to learn about you?
HH: I still play soccer for fun.