Meet your Academic Advisers
Hi! My name is Ben Chamberlain, and I am a proud 1999 agricultural studies graduate from Iowa State University. I am originally from a family farming operation near Geneseo, IL and am involved in that operation to this day. You will find throughout your life that plans tend to change - when I came to Iowa State I planned to return to my family farming operation. However, situations change and I found that I very much enjoyed living in central Iowa and being involved with Iowa State so I am very pleased to have been able to remain in the area and at ISU! I have done a few other things over the years, including earning a master's degree from Kansas State University and building a real estate business for five years. I returned to ISU and the Department of Agricultural Education and Studies in 2011 and serve as an academic adviser. In this role, I am a part of the teaching and learning process in that I help students understand the curriculum, resources available to them and teach a couple courses among other things. In my time away from work, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family and being involved with our farming operation in Illinois. I very much look forward to working with you throughout your time at Iowa State!
Hello! My name is Nate Dobbels and I am a proud Iowa State University graduate in Agricultural and Life Sciences Education- Teacher Certification and International Agriculture (2012). I grew up on a family farm in Galva, IL growing corn and soybeans and managing a swine operation. While at Iowa State, I served as vice-president of Student Government, was a tour guide on campus and even selected as Homecoming King. These experiences led me to having great mentors who encouraged me to consider a career in higher education. After graduating from Iowa State, I completed a master’s degree at the University of Northern Iowa in higher education: student affairs. I then spent some time at Grinnell College in Development and Alumni Relations before returning home to the AGEDS Department. As an academic adviser, I meet with prospective students, teach a handful of classes, and am here to serve as a resource to all students. It is my goal to share resources, answer questions, help students successfully transition to Iowa State and be available to help with any challenges students face. I enjoy spending time with dog, Jack Trice and my wife, Kassie. I also enjoy puzzles, games and all sports. I can’t wait to help you through your adventure at Iowa State University!