Rate My Professor Sam Campbell

Sam Campbell is a Client Services Administrator in the Sciences Division at the University of Otago, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting first-year students. She primarily manages the HSFY paper CELS191 Cell and Molecular Biology, assisting over 1800 students each year, many experiencing their first semester at university. Additionally, over the past three to four years, she has supported CHEM191. As the primary point of contact for students, Campbell provides essential guidance, answers queries drawing on extensive institutional knowledge that extends beyond her direct responsibilities, and ensures every student feels welcome and supported. She proactively identifies and resolves issues, streamlines processes and procedures for improved efficiency, and maintains detailed operational resources, including her signature 'rainbow spreadsheets' that are central to daily operations. Her collaborative approach involves working closely with teaching teams to address material needs and student requirements.

In 2023, Samantha Campbell was honored with the Award for Exceptional Performance by Professional Staff at the University of Otago. This recognition highlights her outstanding dedication to student success. Nominators commended her exceptional ability to connect with students, making them feel valued amid the challenges of first-year studies. Comments include: '[Sam] always tries her best to solve our problems at the first time. We all love her.'; 'Sam was always smiley and upbeat. She was very helpful and explains everything in a way everyone can understand.'; 'It is her goal to leave no question unanswered and no student unsupported.' Campbell arrived in Dunedin from Melbourne in 2016 as a Campus Temp, joined the CELS191 team in 2018, and continued in the role when Client Services was established. She maintains a cheerful and even-tempered presence under pressure, describing her varied work where no two days are the same, and attributes her success to team support. She is listed in the Centre for Sustainability and Zoology departmental contacts as Administrator and CELS 191 Course Administrator.