Michael Bugajski
Michael is excited to work as the Operations Administrator for the office of Academic Support and Learning Advancement. Prior to joining ASLA in August 2023, he worked as an assistant language teacher in northern Japan, teaching high school and special education. He also has experience as a freelance food and culture writer, worked in the corporate aviation industry, and had a brief stint as an archivist and genealogical researcher.
What is most meaningful to you about your work?
Joining ASLA is an opportunity to bring together the administrative skills I’ve developed over the years with my love of working in the education field. I’m genuinely excited to be a part of ASLA and contribute to the Northwestern community.
What’s some advice you would give to your college-age self?
Everything is a process — making small changes is the key to building large results.
What is a prior life experience that you draw on in your work?
The empathy and understanding of what it means to work with students. Education is difficult in the best of times, but with the challenges of coming to a new school, new city, or even a new country, kindness and empathy should always be the our first reaction.
What’s something you enjoy when you’re not at work?
FOOD. Exploring Chicago and trying new restaurants is something I really enjoy! That being said, I’m also very happy to curl up with a good book and my cat and take some for myself to relax!