The CCIT Support Center offers real-world experiences and skills for students

Clemson University students, faculty and staff rely on technology every day, and the Clemson Computing and Information Technology (CCIT) Support Center is often their first stop when issues arise. Located on the second floor of Cooper Library, Support Center student employees greet customers and help them connect with the right person for their technology issues, concerns or questions. The Support Center goes beyond physical location, however; online chats, emails to ITHelp@clemson.edu and phone calls are also ways to troubleshoot beyond entering the doors of Cooper Library. On the other end of the line, a Clemson University student is often there to help people navigate their issues. Students working in the Support Center develop professional skills while still studying full-time, which differentiates them from others when they prepare for the job market after graduation.

Ella Wadleigh, a junior majoring in computer science, has worked in the CCIT Support Center over the last five months, which has already given her valuable insights she wants to use in her future career in artificial intelligence in finance one day.

“I wanted a stronger background in computing, so IT [information technology] at Clemson is a good place to dip my toes into the water,” said Wadleigh. “I also like being able to work with my friends and helping people on the phone here.”

In the cube next to her, Mills Grimsley echoed her sentiments. Grimsley is a senior in computer information systems and has worked in the CCIT Support Center for two years. Grimsley said he wanted to gain skills in IT, and the people at the Support Center brought him a lot of joy. He said he has improved his time management and customer service skills too.

The welcoming atmosphere the students described is managed by a few CCIT employees who are equally invested in the students they mentor and work alongside. Brandon Chasteen, the CCIT service desk supervisor, has worked in the Support Center for two years now. Before joining CCIT, Chasteen served twelve years in the Active Duty Air Force and is a current member of the South Carolina Air National Guard. For Chasteen, developing and supporting the students is one of the highlights of his job.

“I love interacting with students, ensuring we provide excellent customer service to Clemson University, and coming to work at Clemson every day brings me joy. I am also grateful for the camaraderie among full-time employees,” said Chasteen. “We teach the students customer service skills, emphasize strong communication skills with our customers, how to handle stressful situations, and build their confidence as time goes on. Working in CCIT is a great resume builder for opportunities at Clemson and beyond.” 

Students who have worked in the Support Center have gone on to land impressive jobs in engineering and IT spaces. Chasteen said one former student employee went on to land a Senior Splunk Engineer position after graduation, which he noted is not an easy task. Mike Slater, service desk manager, has also worked here for the last few years. Slater praised the work and impact he and his colleagues have on students and one another.

“Our goal is to support the institution’s students, staff and faculty daily, to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed. Our staff are all hardworking and supportive of our goals, while maintaining an exceptional work culture in our little pocket of the campus,” Slater said. “I enjoy working with the full-time and part-time student staff here at the Support Center. In addition to helping our students obtain work experience, we help them with their resumes, interview questions, references, and anything else they need for success in the future. I envision my younger self appreciating a supportive group as the one we have built here.”

Chase Moody, a management information systems major, said his last 1.5 years of experience in Support have already helped him in big ways. 

“I want to do data analytics or something in that field, and working here has helped me gain skills using various software big companies use,” Moody said. “The experience here even helped me get another on-campus internship at the Watt Family Innovation Center in IT.” 

Slater explained that ultimately it is a unique opportunity to find oneself in the position to serve the institution in the ways possible at the CCIT Support Center. Ella Wadleigh encourages any interested students to apply to work here. 

“I want other students to know that working at CCIT is a good place that offers a great work environment with rich experience and I recommend students to work here,” said Wadleigh. 

Students interested in opportunities to work in the CCIT Support Center are welcome to reach out or visit the Support Center’s website for more information.