Rita Richardson

Rita Richardson photo

Student services advisor

360 Education Sciences Building
For appointments, call 612-625-3339 or schedule online.
richa882@umn.edu

About me

Howdy! My name is Rita and I am so excited to be working with you. I am from St. Paul, MN, and I attended my first year of college in CEHD before finishing my associate's degree at Minneapolis Community & Technical College then transferring to St. Catherine University to finish my undergraduate degree in sociology and psychology. Life takes us on so many journeys, CEHD led me full circle.

Before joining the CEHD Student Services team as an advisor, I worked as a CEHD Career Services graduate intern supporting students looking for jobs and prepping for graduate school. I also managed a local pay-what-you-can yoga studio called Yoga Sol very close to campus. Today, I still teach yoga, as it is an important part of my own health and my holistic advising style.

As a student, I had many barriers to success in my home, living with family members with addiction not to mention my own anxiety – my advisors and higher education mentors helped me so much, and that is part of why I am an advisor today. I am here to support you with life as it happens both on and off campus – especially as there are many injustices happening in our society.

Outside of advising, I love concerts, hip hop music, snacking, figuring out how the universe works, hanging with my dog, cross stitching, yoga, and exploring new places. Let’s connect!

We are committed to providing a comfortable, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of our communities. If there is information you feel would be helpful for us to know, including disability or other accommodation needs, I invite you to share it with me directly or let the front desk know when you schedule an appointment.

Drop-in advising

Drop-in advising is available over Zoom. Check with your advisor for their weekly availability.

Drop-in advising is usually limited to a 10 to 15 minute session. Students needing more time should schedule a 30 minute appointment by calling Student Services at 612-625-3339.

Example of issues for drop-in advising

  • Review of classes and class schedule
  • APAS review and updates
  • Petition discussions
  • Signatures for academic forms
  • Short Q&A
  • General discussion
  • Non-academic topics (such as time management, connecting on campus, etc.)