About The Advising Center::EAC Staff

Mercedes G. Barcia, Director of Advising/Counseling

Mercedes G. Barcia is the director of the Engineering Advising Center. "Mechy," as she likes to be called, has been with the University of Michigan for many years helping students successfully achieve their goals and objectives. As the director of the EAC, her immediate responsibility is to make sure that the Center helps first-year students in their transition from high school to college and in choosing their Engineering degree programs.
barciamg@umich.edu

Kurt C. Hill, Academic Advising

Kurt C. Hill is an academic advisor in the EAC. Kurt has been in the field of student advising for over fifteen years. His background in admissions, recruiting, academic advising and co-op placement, in addition to his participation in the University's LeaderShape®Institute and Mentorship Program, are some of his many strengths and interests.
kchill@umich.edu

Shawn S. Salata, Academic Advising

Shawn Salata is an academic advisor in the EAC. She brings over fifteen years of student affairs experience to the College and its students. Shawn enjoys the one-on-one contact with students through the advising process, and helping them adjust to the new demands of college life. She is particularly interested in leadership development, helping students get connected on campus, and supporting their career exploration. Shawn is the Coordinator of the CoE Peer Mentoring Program.
ssalata@umich.edu

Kelsey Gross, Academic Advising 

Kelsey is an academic advisor in the EAC. She received her Master's degree from Miami University in 2006, and worked in career services before joining the EAC team. Her background in career counseling allows her to help first-year and undeclared students make informed decisions about major and career paths. She enjoys working with CoE students to create a satisfying and engaging college experience.
kebben@umich.edu                                                  

BethAnne Zielinski, Academic Advising

Beth Anne is an academic advisor in the EAC. She received her Master's degree from Virginia Tech in 2007, where she also worked in academic advising. Bethh Anne joined the EAC team after working with an Aerospace company. She is happy to be advising students again and helping them to determine long term goals and define the needed path at UofM to best reach them.
bazie@umich.edu

Rachel Flaten, Student Services Assistant 

Rachel Flaten is the student services assistant in the EAC. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2003. Her previous position in the Registrar's Office gives her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by University of Michigan students throughout their academic careers. She is interested in helping students have a positive and enriching college experience.
rachelfk@umich.edu