Advisor Desiree Fray Gets a Kick Out of Counseling Science Students

From a student’s first day on campus to graduation, academic advisors play a vital role in student success. The insights and expertise from an advisor can help students efficiently navigate their academic journeys. The Charles E. Schmidt College of Science’s advisors are all deeply committed to student success, including Desiree Fray.

Since 2019, Fray has served as an academic advisor for students in the Schmidt College of Science. Primarily, she works with Exercise Science and Health Promotion (ESHP) majors, but she also advises students who are pursuing Health Science, Urban Design, Urban and Regional Planning, and general studies degrees. In addition, she advises the Soar-in-4 and Educate Tomorrow cohorts. But helping students who are working toward ESHP degrees is a little extra special for her.

“I was a former collegiate athlete, and I started working in this field initially as an athletics advisor,” stated Fray. “Working with the Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion and those students who want careers in this field has truly come full circle for me.”

Not only have sports played a significant role in Fray’s life, but also in her family’s. Her youngest child currently plays professionally for Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami CF, and her daughter now plays soccer for Oral Roberts University while she earns her master’s degree. Fray’s oldest child also played soccer throughout high school.

Strong soccer genes run in the family. Fray’s mom was inducted into the U.S. Youth Soccer Hall of Fame, and a foundation was established in her name at the United Soccer Coaches organization, where Fray’s family continues to build on her mother’s legacy.

When Fray was a student-athlete in college, she greatly appreciated all the help she received from her athletic advisor. She always knew that she wanted to stay involved in sports, and since she was a psychology major, Fray wanted to pursue a career that would allow her to combine the two.

“Fray’s advising position isn’t a job - it’s a passion, and it shows in every interaction she has with students,” expressed Laura Canteri, ESHP senior instructor and internship coordinator. “She takes the time to really know her students and considers their unique backgrounds, aspirations, and challenges when advising them to ensure their success at Florida Atlantic and beyond. She is also extremely knowledgeable about the prerequisites for various graduate programs.”

There are obvious reasons why students should meet with an advisor: major exploration, degree tracking, and graduation requirements. However, Fray stressed that advisors also offer career resources and pre-professional advising, as well as help connect students with internship, research, and shadowing opportunities.

For those who have not met with an advisor yet, do not despair! It is never too late to talk to an advisor.

“Make an appointment now, and make sure you select someone who advises for your major so you can get the best possible assistance,” said Fray. “It is important to advocate for yourself and stay on top of your degree, but advisors will always help you along the way to make sure your time at Florida Atlantic is successful.”

Click here to learn more about the advising services in the Office of Student Services and Advising in the Schmidt College of Science.